Anise Hard Candy 1 1/2 teaspoons butter, softened (NO SUBSTITUTES) 3/4 cup water 2/3 cup light corn syrup 2 cups granulated sugar 1 teaspoon anise extract Red food coloring 2 to 3 tablespoons confectioners' sugar Butter an 8-inch square baking pan with 1 1/2 teaspoons butter; set aside. In a large heavy saucepan, combine water, corn syrup and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Cover and cook for 3 minutes to dissolve any sugar crystals. Uncover; cook over medium-high heat, without stirring, until a candy thermometer reads 300 degrees F (hard crack stage). Remove from heat; stir in anise extract and food coloring (keep face away from mixture as odor is very strong). Pour into prepared pan. Using a sharp knife, score into 3/4-inch squares. Cool. Separate into squares, using a sharp knife, if necessary. Place confectioners' sugar in a baking pan; add candy and roll until coated. Brush off excess sugar with a pastry brush. Store at room temperature in an airtight container. Yields about 8 dozen (1 pound).