DIY Conversation Hearts

Combine the water, gelatin and corn syrup in a microwavable bowl and heat for about 15 seconds until gelatin has dissolved.

Pour into a stand mixer with a paddle attachment and, on low speed, add 1 cup of powdered sugar at a time, until all of the powdered sugar is used. You will end up with a stiff dough that’s just a little sticky.

Lay parchment paper out and cover with a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Place the dough on the parchment paper. Knead the dough with powdered sugar until the stickiness goes away.

Divide the dough into 4 pieces. Place each piece in an individual Ziplock bag so the dough won’t dry out.

Working with one section of the dough at a time, create a small hole in the center and add a few drops of coconut extract and a few drops of food coloring (whatever color you’re working with... red, purple, yellow, etc.) TIPS: Wear disposable plastic gloves to keep your hands clean, as you’ll be kneading the dough until the color is present and even throughout. Also, have enough powdered sugar on the parchment paper so you can keep dipping the dough in it when it gets too sticky. When you’re not using a dough, place it in a bag to keep moist.

Once all of the coloring and flavoring is done, roll out the dough to about 1/8 to 1/4 of an inch thick.

Use a tiny heart cutter to create the shapes. Let them dry for 24 hours. Drying is an important step, so don't skip it. If they are moist, the dye will run when you write on them.

Once the hearts are dried, use a few drops of red food coloring and have plenty of toothpicks on hand. Dip a toothpick into the dye and then carefully write whatever phrase or words you want on the heart!