Why buy candy canes when you can make them at home yourself?

1 cup sugar
1/4 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup water
1/8 tsp cream of tartar
4 drops oil of peppermint or spearmint
4 drops red and/or green food coloring

In a saucepan, simmer water, corn syrup and cream of tartar until it reaches 280 degrees with a candy thermometer. Remove from heat and stir in the oil of peppermint or spearmint (you can also use a different flavoring if you prefer).

Separate the syrup mixture into two containers. Add red or green coloring to one container, then add the other color or leave plain to the second container. Stir to combine.

On lightly greased sheets of wax or parchment paper, pour each container onto it. Allow to cool slightly, about 1-2 minutes, until it is cool enough to touch, then roll each color batch into a long snake rope about 1/2" thick. Then take both ropes and twist them into each other to create the candy cane effect. Using scissors or sharp knife, cut into pieces about 6-8 inches in length. Bend one end into a crook. Allow to set, then enjoy!