Super simple to put together and perfect around Valentine's Day, these homemade suckers are so holiday appropriate! Make them any flavor or color for any time of the year!
½tspcandy flavoringsold in teaspoon increments called "drams"
½tspred food coloringor any color
vegetable oil for molds and measuring cups
Instructions
Using a paper towel, lightly dip the towel in vegetable oil and wipe the insides of the sucker molds. Also, wipe the inside of a two-cup glass measuring cup. Place the molds on parchment-lined baking sheets (makes for easy cleanup). Place sucker sticks in the molds so they reach halfway into the sucker.
vegetable oil for molds and measuring cups
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup. Place on medium-high heat and stir to ensure the sugar is not burning and is evenly dissolving into the water and syrup.
1 cup granulated sugar, ½ cup water, ⅓ cup light corn syrup
Once the mixture is boiling, start testing the temperature. If using a traditional candy thermometer, make sure it is fitted on the saucepan at this point.
Once the mixture reaches 300°F, remove from heat and add cadny flavoring and food coloring. Stir to combine. The mixture will bubble.
½ tsp red food coloring, ½ tsp candy flavoring
Pour mixture into a prepared two-cup measuring glass and immediately pour into prepared molds, making sure the sticks extend into the sucker. Once the molds are filled, place in a cool place until they are hardened, about 4-5 hours.
Remove from molds and put in sucker wrappers with twist ties. This will prevent the sucker from becoming sticky and makes for a beautiful presentation.
Video
Notes
Cinnamon oil is traditional, but cherry tastes like a store-bought Valentine's sucker.Working with sugar can be a fast process, so having all ingredients ready before beginning will ensure everything happens smoothly!