Thursday, March 8, 2012

anise caramels

Simply the BEST licorice caramels ever!! They are great for gift giving because they are divine and your recipients will thank you over and over!! Make sure to make a batch to keep home for you to enjoy too!!
1 cup butter
2 cups white sugar
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup corn syrup
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pure anise oil
black paste food coloring (optional) I use red and green at Christmas!!

Line a 13x9 inch dish with buttered foil or you can sray it with PAM. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in sugar, condensed milk, corn syrup and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Continue to heat, without stirring, to 242 to 248 degrees F (116 to 120 degrees C), or until a small amount of syrup dropped into cold water forms a firm but pliable ball. Remove from heat and stir in anise and food coloring. Pour into prepared pan. Let cool completely for several hours. To cut, turn out of pan and peel away foil. Cut with a buttered knife. Wrap pieces in waxed paper and ENJOY!!  Store in sealable container until gone *LOL*