Christmas Hard Candy

3 1/2 c  Sugar
1 c  Light corn syrup
1 c  Water
1/4 ts To 1/2 tspn cinnamon or
Peppermint oil
1 ts Red or green food coloring
 
In a lg. heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook on med-high heat until candy thermometer reads 300~ (hard crack stage), stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat; stir in oil and food coloring, keeping face away from mixture as odor is very strong. Immediately pour onto an oiled cookie sheet. Cool; break into pieces. Store in airtight  containers.  Note - cinnamon and peppermint oils are available in cake decorating and candy supply stores.