CHERRY DIVINITY

*Valentine Collection*

2-1/2 cups sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup corn syrup

1 TB cherry extract
1-2 TB red food coloring, to reach desired tint
2 egg whites
1/8 tsp cream of tartar

1. Combine sugar and salt in a medium mixing bowl. Add water, corn syrup, flavoring and coloring, mixing thouroughly. Pour mixture into a medium saucepan, cover and cook over medium to high heat until firm ball stage, or 244 to 248 degrees.

2. Meanwhile, beat egg whites and cream of tartar on high speed until the mixture forms soft peaks. When sugar mixture is ready, pour into egg whites in a slow and steady stream while mixing on high speed.

3. Beat until mixture starts to lose its shine. Use 2 teaspoons to form candies, placing mounds on wax paper. When candy is firm, place in airtight container.

(Source: Barbara Weekly (Coeur d'Alene candy maker & kappboom wallpaper photo)