1. In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Reduce heat to low and continue cooking without stirring until a candy thermometer reaches 260°F.
4. While syrup cooks, beat egg whites in a mixing bowl on high speed until stiff peaks form.
5. Once syrup reaches 260°F, slowly pour the hot syrup into the egg whites while mixing continuously.
6. Add vanilla extract and food coloring, then continue mixing until the mixture thickens and holds its shape.
7. Drop spoonfuls of candy onto waxed paper to form mounds, or pipe using a piping bag.
8. Let candies cool and set completely before serving.

Kid-Friendly Tips

• Kids can help beat the egg whites and add food coloring
• Adults should handle cooking sugar syrup and pouring hot mixture
• Use piping bags or zip-top bags for fun candy shapes

Variation Ideas

• Use different food coloring colors for holidays
• Add a drop of peppermint or almond extract
• Pipe into swirls, stars, or hearts

Notes

Humidity can affect how well meringue candy sets. Store finished candies in an airtight container at room temperature.