Grandma's Prairie Broken Glass

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   Winter time on the prairie was time without garden harvests or planting and plowing. Those chores out of our routine the door was open for some creative fun; candy making. One particular treat that always tempted my taste buds and fascinated by imagination was one called 'Broken Glass'. Red for cinnamon or green for mint, sugar and water magically came together to form a sheet of tasty treasure.

Grandma's Broken Glass

3 3/4 cup sugar

1 1/2 cup light corn syrup

1 cup water

1 tsp cinnamon oil or peppermint oil

red food coloring for cinnamon or green for peppermint

In a heavy bottom pot stir the sugar, corn syrup and water over a medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Bring mixture to a boil. Using a candy thermometer as a guide, bring the mixture to 310 degrees. Remove from heat before adding colorings and flavorings. Pour into buttered pans (I use a buttered baking sheet). Cool completely before breaking into pieces. Enjoy!

A Few Tips:

..candy can be scored and broken into uniform pieces if done when semi-set (before it cools)

..to prevent sticking, toss with confectioners sugar before storing in airtight containers

...this recipe makes excellent lollipops if a form or free form is used

..candy making is best done in sunny weather with low humidity

**remember, boiling sugar doesn't just burn..it maims..be careful!**

   While it has been years since the days of making this magical candy with my prairie grandmothers, the memories are still so fresh and new. On rare seasons here in the south I have made this recipe with my own children, passing along the wonder and fun of these fun simple memories.