Homemade Kool-Aid Licorice Ropes
A fun and customizable treat made from Kool-Aid, sugar, and simple ingredients to create chewy licorice ropes.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup water
- 2 packets Kool-Aid drink mix (any flavor)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for dusting)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- to taste Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, lemon juice, and salt. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Attach a candy thermometer and cook until the temperature reaches 260°F (127°C), known as the hard-ball stage.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the Kool-Aid packets and any food coloring until everything is well mixed.
- Lightly oil a flat surface or parchment paper and dust it with cornstarch.
- Pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared surface.
- Once it’s cool enough to handle but still pliable, stretch and pull the candy repeatedly until glossy and chewy.
- Roll the candy into long ropes about 1/2 inch thick.
- Cut the ropes into desired lengths and dust them with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
- Let the licorice ropes fully cool and harden.
Notes
Store your Kool-Aid Licorice Ropes in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They are best enjoyed fresh but can last for a few weeks.