DIY Conversation Candy Hearts

 I know that we've already passed Valentine's day, but I still want to share a recipe with you.  I LOVE those little candy conversation hearts.  The only bummer about them is that they are only available one time a year: February.  This is a great conversation candy heart recipe.  I've done it quite a few times and I love it.  They taste WAY better than store bought ones, and I love that you can write whatever you want on them!  It doesn't have to be Valentine's day to make these, and really, you can use any shape you want, not just hearts.  Keep in mind that these need to dry for 24 hours, so start them the day before you need them!  Here it is:

You will need:

• 1 packet unflavored gelatin (FYI: Winco sells a generic box of gelatin-32 packets for about $5.50- best price I've ever seen!)
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 lbs (1 bag) of powdered sugar (reserve 1/4 cup for dusting when rolling at the end)
• 2 tsp light corn syrup
• Flavorings (vanilla, coconut, raspberry, almond, etc.)
• Food coloring

You will also need food-safe markers (you can find them at craft store like Michael's) and a small heart shaped cookie cutter (or whatever shapes you want-just make sure they're small). 

1. In a bowl, mix together the gelatin, water, and corn syrup.  Place in the microwave for 30 seconds.  Stir until gelatin is mostly dissolved.  
2. Pour the mixture into a large bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer.  I use the paddle attachment when I do this in my mixer.  
3. Begin adding the powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time.  Your dough will get stiffer as you near the end of your powdered sugar.
4. Divide your dough into 4 pieces (or however many different colors/flavors you want).  
5. Add food coloring and a little bit of flavoring to each ball.  If you want to avoid dying your hands all sorts of colors, you may want to wear plastic gloves.  Work the dye into the balls.  If you want a marbled look, stop kneading before the dye is completely mixed. 
6. Sprinkle some powdered sugar on a clean surface.  Roll out the dough to a thinness between 1/8-1/4 inch thick, and then use your cookie cutters to make shapes.  
7. Allow these to dry 24 hours before writing on them!!  This is very important.  The moisture in the hearts will make the ink bleed if you write on them too soon.  They will also harden as they dry.  Once dry, store in an airtight container. 
8. Enjoy! 

See all my Valentine's Day activities, crafts, gifts, and projects HERE!