"be mine" lollipops

Source: Better Homes and Gardens, Febuary 1998 Prep time: 20 minutes Cook: 6 to 8 minutes assorted red, pink, and/or clearhard candies 35 to 60 (2 to 3 oz.) assorted small decorative candies, such as red cinnamon candies, small nonpareils, colored candy hearts, spice drops, and gumdrops Edible rose petals or other flower petals (optional) Lollipop sticks Place unwrapped hard candies in a heavy plastic bag, then place bag on top of folded towel and crush candies into small chunks wiht meat mallet or small hammer.

Make only three or four lollipops at one time. Line a baking sheet with foil. Place desired cookie cutters on foil, at least 2 inches apart. Divide crushed candies evenly among cutters, approximately 1½ to 2 tablespoons per lollipop. Candy layer should be ¼ to ½ inch thick. Add small decorative candies or edible rose or other flower petals to crushed candies. (If using flower petals, make sure they are covered with a layer of the crushed candy.) Bake in a 350 degree oven for 6 to 8 minutes or till candies are completely melted. Col 30 seconds. Remove cookie cutters with tongs, allowing melted candy to spread slightly.

Quickly attach a stick to base of each lollipop, twisting the stick to cover lollipop end with melted candy. If desired, press more small candies or flower petals into hot lolipops. Cool. Peel foil from lollipops. Makes 8