Liz Gutman and Jen King of Liddabit Sweets use natural flavorings like tea, honey, fruit, and herbs in their sweet licks, but you can make more traditional pops with purchased food coloring and flavors.

This recipe is one of O's DIY candy recipes.
Servings: Makes about 30 small lollipops
Ingredients
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (or substitute light corn syrup)
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup
  • Food coloring , if desired
  • 1/4 tsp. or more flavored oil , like watermelon, strawberry, or lime
  • Thin sticks (4-inches long)
  • Lollipop molds or aluminum foil
  • Directions
    Total time: 45 minutes

    Grease molds, or foil if making free-form lollipops, and set on a rimmed cookie sheet. Place sheet on even work surface.

    In a small pot over high heat, bring sugar, 1/2 cup water, honey or maple syrup, and corn syrup to a boil. Cook until mixture reaches 295°, then add food coloring and flavored oil, if using. To test flavor, dip a spoon in boiling mixture, then dunk it in cold water to chill, then taste. Add more flavoring as desired.

    Continue cooking until temperature reaches 300°, then transfer to a funnel or measuring cup. Pour into molds or onto foil and insert sticks. Allow to set, about 15 minutes.

    Note: Making these requires caution; the hot sugar syrup can cause severe burns. Candy should be made on a cool, dry day or in an air-conditioned kitchen. It's also a good idea to invest in a candy thermometer that clips onto the pot, so you don't have to hold it; look for one at Amazon.com.

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