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A colorful display of Homemade Kool-Aid Licorice Ropes ropes on a wooden board, with red, blue, green, and purple ropes twisted together.

Homemade Kool-Aid Licorice Ropes Recipe

olivia
These Homemade Kool-Aid Licorice Ropes are a fun, chewy, and colorful treat made with bold flavors and vibrant colors! 🍬 Made from simple ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and Kool-Aid powder, this DIY candy is easy to customize with your favorite flavors. Perfect for snacking, gifting, or a fun kitchen project!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Candy, Snack
Cuisine American
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Licorice Dough:

  • Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and structure.
  • Light corn syrup – Provides chewiness and helps bind the ingredients.
  • All-purpose flour – Gives the licorice its soft texture.
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder optional – For a chocolatey twist.
  • Kool-Aid powder – The key ingredient for bold flavor and color!
  • Vanilla extract optional – Adds depth to the flavor.
  • Food coloring optional – Enhances color vibrancy.

For Shaping:

  • Powdered sugar – Prevents sticking when rolling out the licorice ropes.

Instructions
 

1️⃣ Prepare the Base:

  • In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and flour over low heat.
  • Stir until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved.

2️⃣ Add Flavor & Color:

  • Add Kool-Aid powder, cocoa powder (if using), and vanilla extract.
  • Stir until the mixture thickens slightly and pulls away from the sides.
  • (Optional) Add a few drops of food coloring for an extra pop of color.

3️⃣ Cool the Mixture:

  • Remove from heat and let it cool for 5–10 minutes.

4️⃣ Shape the Licorice Ropes:

  • Dust a work surface with powdered sugar.
  • Roll the dough into long, thin ropes and cut into 6–8 inch pieces.

5️⃣ Set & Store:

  • Place the ropes on a parchment-lined tray and let them set for 1–2 hours.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Notes

  • Work Quickly! The dough is easier to shape while warm.
  • Sour Version? Roll in a mix of sugar & citric acid for a tangy twist!
  • Gluten-Free? Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend.
  • Storage Tip: Keep leftover dough in an airtight container for up to 3 daysβ€”reheat gently before reshaping.
Keyword chewy candy recipe, colorful licorice ropes, DIY candy, fruity licorice ropes, homemade candy, homemade licorice, Kool-Aid licorice