There is nothing better than sweet juicy, flavorful hard your local gourmet candy. . . unless you do it yourself, that is! Making perfect hard candy at home is easier than you think. You just need the right tools, a few simple ingredients, and imagination.

Try these tips next time you want to do something special in the kitchen. Your family will love! 1. Provided the basic tools of candymaking. You will need a medium size pot (3 or 4 quarts) with a heavy bottom and straight sides. You will also need a long handle of a wooden spoon, a pastry brush (used to scare off any crystals that might form), and a good candy thermometer with a metal clamp which attaches to the side of the pan. 2.

Get the weather forecast. Did you know that moisture has a huge effect on the outcome of their candy? Because sugar attracts water, rainy days can wreak havoc on your better, even attempts at homemade delicacies. Make it easier on yourself, wait for a dry clear day to test your recipes. 3. Test your thermometer. Test your thermometer by placing it in a container with water and bring to boil. You must now register 212 degrees at sea level. If the records of 214 degrees, can be corrected by adding two degrees to those given in the recipe, if 210 degrees, subtracting. If more than a few degrees in any direction outside, you need a new thermometer. 4. They use fresh ingredients.