Jawbreakers, also known as gobstoppers, are classic hard candies that can entertain and challenge your taste buds for hours. Making jawbreakers at home is a fun and creative process that can be enjoyable for both children and adults. Follow these 13 steps to make your very own jawbreakers.

1. Gather necessary ingredients:

– Granulated sugar

– Light corn syrup

– Water

– Food coloring (optional)

– Flavoring or extract of your choice (ex: vanilla, mint, lemon, cherry)

– Confectioners’ sugar

– Cornstarch

2. Prepare the mold:

Create a round-shaped, non-stick mold out of aluminum foil or silicone, making sure each cavity is deep enough to hold a jawbreaker.

3. Mix sugar, syrup, and water:

In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup light corn syrup, and 1/4 cup water. Stir the mixture over low heat until the sugar fully dissolves.

4. Heat the mixture:

Using a candy thermometer to closely track the temperature, heat the mixture to 295°F (146°C) without stirring — this is known as the hard-crack stage.

5. Add food coloring:

Once the mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove it from heat and carefully add a few drops of food coloring if desired. This will give your jawbreakers their distinct color variations.

6. Add flavoring:

Stir in about one teaspoon of flavoring or extract according to your preference.

7. Aerate the candy mixture:

Pour the candy mixture into a large glass or metal bowl with high sides, allowing it to cool slightly while you are pouring.

8. Prepare rolling surface

Mix equal parts confectioners’ sugar (about 1 cup) and cornstarch (about 1 cup) on a baking sheet or tray.

9. Start rolling the candies:

Using a spoon or melon baller, scoop out small amounts of the candy mixture and carefully roll them into balls before placing them onto the prepared rolling surface.

10. Dust and roll the balls:

Cover the newly-formed balls with confectioners’ sugar and cornstarch mixture while they’re still warm. This helps create the layers that characterize jawbreakers.

11. Repeat:

Wait for the candy to cool before repeating steps 3-10 with gradually decreasing sugar ratios, to form the outer layers of your jawbreakers.

12. Harden jawbreakers:

Allow your jawbreakers to air-dry for at least 24 hours, or until they feel hard and smooth.

13. Store and enjoy:

Keep your homemade jawbreakers in a cool, dry place inside an airtight container until you’re ready to share your candy creations with friends and family.

With these 13 steps, you’ll be able to make your own jawbreakers at home and enjoy the satisfyingly prolonged challenge of eating them. Remember always to handle hot candy mixtures with caution, as they can cause severe burns if not handled carefully. Happy candy making!