PEPPERMINT JELLY CANDY

For best results, follow the directions carefully to avoid undercooking the mixtures. No candy thermometer is necessary for this old-fashioned candy shop candy.

2 tbsp water
2 packages (3 oz) liquid fruit pectin
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 cup sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
1/2 tsp peppermint extract
3 drops green food color
sugar or coarse sugar

Line 8 inch square pan with foil, butter foil.

In small saucepan, combine water and pectin. Stir in baking soda.

In medium saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and corn syrup. Cook both mixtures over high heat until foam starts to disappear on pectin mixture and sugar mixture comes to full rolling boil (one that cannot be stirred down), about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring both constantly.

Slowly pour pectin mixture into sugar mixture, stirring constantly. Continue to boil for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Remove from heat; stir in peppermint extract and food color. Pour into foil-lined pan. Cool until firm.

Remove candy from pan by lifting foil. With wet knife or scissors, cut into small pieces or desired shapes. Roll in sugar. Store loosely covered.

Makes 64 candies
Source: Pillsbury, Family Christmas Cookbook