1 c. sugar
2 tbsp. cornstarch
1/3 tsp. salt
7/8 c. light corn syrup
1/2 c. water
2 tbsp. butter, butter
2 tsp. vanilla
2 drops red food coloring

Stir together in a medium sized heavy saucepan: sugar, cornstarch, salt, light corn syrup, water and butter. Let "slowly" heat on burner until 260 on candy thermometer is reached. A 1/2 teaspoon of substance placed in cold water at this point will form a firm pliable ball. At this time add two drops of food coloring. Remove from heat, let set approximately 3 minutes then pour into a buttered pan.

Let stand until it is cool enough to handle. Pull and twist into 1/2 to 3/4 inch pieces. Cut into 1 1/2 inch long strands with your mothers oldest scissors. If you wish to have harder taffy heat to 265 to 270. If you desire more chewy texture add a bit more cornstarch.