Ingredients

2 cups sugar1/2 cup light corn syrup1/2 cup water1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract1 teaspoon red food coloring

Preparation

In a large heavy saucepan over low heat, cook sugar, corn syrup, water and cream of tartar until sugar dissolves, stirring frequently. Increase heat to medium and cook until candy thermometer reads 265° (hard-ball stage), stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat; add extract.

Pour half into a buttered 15x10x1-in. pan. Add food coloring to remaining mixture; mix well. Pour into another buttered 15x10x1-in. pan. Cool 5 minutes or until cool enough to handle. Butter fingers; quickly pull half of the white or red at a time until firm but pliable (the white portion will have a milky color).

When taffy is ready for cutting, pull into a 1/4-in. rope. Cut into 6-in. pieces. Twist red and white pieces together; form into canes. Place on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Cool.