Watermelon Hard Candy Recipe.

Watermelon Hard Candy Recipe. Our neighbors used to always make this for us around Christmas time.
Makes approx. 40 pieces

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 c. sugar
• 1 c. water
• food coloring
• fruit-flavored essence (or oil)–flavor of your choice (you can find this at Michael’s, JoAnn’s, or other cooking/baking stores)

DIRECTIONS:

1. Place parchment paper into a small pan (I used my 7?x5? one)
2. Place sugar and water into a saucepan. Bring to soft boil, stirring constantly.
3. Cover and allow to boil for 3-5 minutes. Remove cover and place thermometer into saucepan. Do not stir anymore at this point. When it reaches 310 degrees, remove from heat.
4. Allow the mix to sit for 30 seconds-1 minute. Place a couple of drops of coloring and essence/oil and stir. Pour into parchment-lined pan. Let it cool briefly for 4 minutes (you want the candy harden a little but still soft so you can cut through it).
5. Using kitchen scissors, cut into desired shapes. Dust with powdered sugar (this keeps from the candy from sticking together).