Swirl lollipops are a fun treat to eat and to make. You don't have to be an experienced candymaker to enjoy these tasty treats. All you need is an afternoon and the right ingredients, and you can choose whatever colors and flavors you like. Because it is best to have a partner while making this candy, this is a great recipe for kids. They will enjoy pulling and shaping the candy and then eating it later.
Pour the sugar, corn syrup, water and cream of tartar into the large saucepan. Stir the mixture together until it is mixed well, and the sugar is dissolved completely.
Insert the candy thermometer into the mixture and cook the mixture until the temperature on the candy thermometer reads 265 degrees F. Do not stir the mixture while it is cooking.
Remove the pan from the heat. Add the flavoring extract.
Separate the mixture into two halves and place one half into another pan or bowl. Mix the food coloring into one of the mixtures. If you are using two colors, mix the other color into the other mixture.
Grease a couple of cookie sheets (or lay out some waxed paper), while allowing the candy to cool just enough to handle without burning yourself.
Lightly grease your hands with butter and pull off a small portion of the candy mixture. Have your candy making partner do the same with the other color.
Pull and fold the candy portion repeatedly, until the candy looks glossy. Roll the candy into a thin rope.
Wrap the two candy ropes around each other and roll them together into another thin rope.
Create the circle swirl shape by coiling the candy rope around itself until you've achieved the desired size.
Place the candy swirl onto a greased cookie sheet and press a lollipop stick firmly into the candy.
Allow the candy to cool completely, until it is hard and set, then enjoy.