Prepare Work Surface:

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly dust with powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent sticking.

Combine Ingredients:

• In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, mix the granulated sugar, water, light corn syrup, and salt. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.

Boil to Soft Ball Stage:

• Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Continue boiling until it reaches the soft ball stage (about 235°F–240°F / 112°C–115°C) on a candy thermometer. This should take around 5–7 minutes.

Add Butter and Kool-Aid:

• Remove the pan from heat. Quickly stir in the butter and Kool-Aid powder until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. (Be cautious as the mixture will be extremely hot.)

Cool and Pull:

• Allow the mixture to cool for 3–5 minutes until it’s safe to handle but still pliable.
• Dust your hands lightly with powdered sugar or cornstarch, then begin to pull the taffy by stretching and folding it repeatedly until it becomes light in color and slightly opaque.

Shape and Cut:

• Transfer the taffy onto the prepared baking sheet. Roll it out gently to your desired thickness.
• Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter dusted with powdered sugar, cut the taffy into bite-sized pieces.

Set and Enjoy:

• Allow the taffy pieces to cool completely and firm up before serving. Enjoy your homemade treat!