Buttery, chewy anise-flavored caramel with the sweet, aromatic taste of licorice.

Licorice Caramels

1 cup butter
2 cups granulated sugar
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup light corn syrup
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon anise extract
1/2 teaspoon red food coloring

1. In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in sugar, sweetened condensed milk, light corn syrup, and salt. Mix well and cook to 244°F (115°C), the firm-ball stage. This will take about 15 to 20 minutes.
2. Remove from the heat and stir in anise extract and red food coloring. Quickly pour the candy, without scraping, into the foil-lined 13 x 9-inch pan with foil extending over the sides.
3. Allow to stand for several hours, or until set.
4. Lift the candy from the pan using the foil; peel off the foil and cut the candy with a buttered knife into 1-inch squares; wrap in wax paper.

Makes 48 pieces.