Don't try these simple peanut candies if you're not a fan of sweets! These creamy red clusters are a yummy alternative to the ubiquitous chocolate variety.

Peanut Pratties

3 cups raw peanuts
2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup milk
2/3 cup light corn syrup
2 cups powdered sugar
4 teaspoons butter
1/2 teaspoon red food coloring, (optional)

1. In a large saucepan, combine peanuts, sugar, milk and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat to the soft-ball stage (see note).
2. Remove from heat and stir in powdered sugar, butter and food coloring. Stir until thick, then drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper. Let cool.

Makes 24 pieces.

Note: 'Soft-ball' is a test for candies that describes the point at which a drop of boiling syrup immersed in cold water forms a soft ball that flattens of its own accord when removed. On a candy thermometer, the soft-ball stage is between 234° and 240°F.