Houston- we have lollipops!!!

Dum dum pops= LOTS of dyes & synthetic flavourings. I've been oogling the YummyEarth Organic Lollipops but haven't made the jump. So I googled how to make my own lollies. Now while mine aren't as "wholesome" as the YE lollies, I do know what goes in & they are additive free!! YIPPEE!! And here's the best part- the kids LOVE them! Aren't they beautiful?!?!



But be warned- you MUST work quickly, or this happens:


Here's the recipe, my notes in red:

Lollipops

By Elizabeth LaBau¹, About.com

Lollipops are an old-fashioned sugar candy favorite. You can vary the colors or flavors to suit your tastes. Make sure you have an accurate candy thermometer for this recipe!

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sugar (I used demerara)
  
• ½ cup light corn syrup (I used homemade dark corn syrup)
  
• ¼ cup water
• ¾ tsp extract of your choice (vanilla, mint, cinnamon, coconut, etc)
• Food coloring (optional) (Did not use)
  
• Lollipop molds and sticks

Preparation:

1. Prepare your molds by spraying them with nonstick cooking spray and inserting lollipop sticks into the molds.

2. Combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Insert the candy thermometer and stir until sugar dissolves.

3. Allow to boil, without stirring, until candy reaches 295 degrees (hard-crack stage).

4. Once the candy reaches 295, remove it from heat. Stir in the extract of your choice, and, if desired, food coloring.

5. Spoon the candy into the mold cavities, making sure to cover the back of the stick.

6. Allow to cool completely and remove once hardened.