I like candy...

During the holidays, I like to make different cookies and candies. For a number of years, I made English or Almond Toffee. So Yummy! A couple of years ago, a neighbor brought over homemade caramels and I was dying to watch her make some. I made a test batch this year and they were so yummy. There was a break in the weather, so I decided to make a full batch. (I've heard you're not supposed to make candy while it's raining because of the change in humidity or barometric pressures. Either way, I test my thermometers with boiling water for accuracy before starting and adjust from there but just try not to make candy during yucky weather days.)

Melting the butter and sugars! You really don't want to know how many calories are in there. Just close your eyes and think of Christmas.

I use a variety of thermometers. This year, we tried out Merril's digital infrared thermometer. I had my kitchen digital thermometer in the syrup too because I like accuracy.

Making sure there aren't any sugar crystals sticking to the sides.

And now the pan of caramel. It needs to sit for about 8 hours before cutting and wrapping. During which time, I'm always a little pensive, hoping they'll turn out all right.

I'm bringing them to a cookie exchange party. (I know they're not technically a cookie but I think they go with Christmas. So yummy!