Candy Conversation Hearts

Directions

1. 1
   Pour soda over gelatin and allow to sit until gelatin powder absorbs soda.
2. 2
   Scoop into sauce pan and heat on the lowest setting until gelatin has dissolved.
3. 3
   Pour into a KitchenAid(R) Stand Mixer., and add about half of the confectioners' sugar. Mix, scraping down sides with a spatula until combined. Continue to add in the 9 cups confectioners' sugar, while scraping down the sides periodically. You will add in further sugar until it stops sticking to the side of the mixing bowl. Add in enough flavoring to taste.
4. 4
   Scrape sugar dough out of mixer and separate into 5 portions. Dough should be moist enough to just barely stick to hands. If need be, add in confectioners' sugar or a few drops of soda if it needs to be more dry or moist.
5. 5
   Wrap 4 of the balls very well in plastic wrap, then place fifth back into mixer bowl and add in color. Mix until well distributed. Repeat with other remaining portions, wiping out bowl with a wet paper bowl in between until all portions are colored.
6. 6
   Working with small pieces at a time, roll dough out with a rolling pin on parchment paper, and cut out hearts. Use confectioners' sugar to dust surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking.
7. 7
   Set on separate parchment paper and allow to dry for at least one day, flipping onto the other side at some point.