Christmas Lollipops
Delightful homemade Christmas Lollipops that are fun to make and perfect for festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar Standard white sugar works best.
- 1 cup corn syrup Corn syrup can be substituted for agave nectar or honey.
- ½ cup water
- ½ teaspoon flavored extract (like peppermint or vanilla) You can use natural extracts based on preference.
- Food coloring Use any color for festive designs.
- Lollipop sticks Make sure they are food-safe.
- Candy thermometer Essential for checking the sugar mixture's temperature.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients. Measure out the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water and place them in a medium saucepan.
Cooking the Base
- Place the saucepan on medium heat and stir the mixture continuously until the sugar has fully dissolved (about 3-5 minutes).
- Increase the heat to high and allow the mixture to come to a boil without stirring.
- Insert the candy thermometer to monitor the temperature and cook until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), typically around 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the flavored extract and food coloring until fully incorporated.
Molding
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly until it thickens. Pour it into lollipop molds, filling each cavity about three-quarters full.
- Insert lollipop sticks into the center of the molds vertically.
Finishing Touches
- Let the lollipops harden completely for about 30 minutes until firm.
- Flex the molds to gently release the lollipops. If they stick, place the molds in the freezer for a few minutes.
- Enjoy or package the lollipops in decorative bags or boxes.
Notes
Store lollipops in an airtight container at room temperature, away from humidity. For gifting, wrap each lollipop in plastic wrap or place them in treat bags.