Candy Cane Seeds

I once knew a gardener who could grow

Bright tasty candies right out of the snow

I asked him to share his secret with me

And this is what he said quite readily

To garden in the winter is difficult you see

It takes lots of care and a very special seed

I'll give you some, to grow your own treats

You'll soon reap a harvest of candy cane sweets

Peppermint Candy Canes

2 C. sugar

1/2 C. light corn syrup

1/2 C. water

1/4 t. cream of tartar

3/4 t. peppermint oil

3/4 t. to 1 t. red food coloring

Blend together sugar, corn syrup, water and cream of tartar. Stir to dissolve the sugar. Without stirring, cook until the hard ball stage (265� F.) on candy thermometer).

Remove from heat and add peppermint oil; blend well. Divide into two portions. Add red food coloring to one one half of candy. Pour candy onto two greased plates. Let cool.

When cool enough to handle, pull each apart separately. Form into ropes and twist the white and red candy together. Cut into desired length and shape into canes.