Lemon Gumdrops

Liberally butter a 9-by-12-inch baking pan and set aside. Combine the granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Stir constantly and wash down the sides of the pan several times with a pastry brush that has been dipped in cold water, to prevent sugar crystallization. In a small mixing bowl, dissolve the gelatin in remaining 1/2 cup water for 5 minutes. Add dissolved gelatin to the sugar mixture and continue to boil for 15 minutes, stirring constantly. Add the lemon juice and orange zest to the syrup and boil for 5 more minutes. Add food coloring. Pour the mixture into the buttered baking dish and set aside at room temperature to set up for about 3 hours. When the 3 hours have passed, liberally butter a knife, your fingers and culinary scissors thoroughly. Cut the gummy substance into pieces and roll into small balls. Roll the balls in superfine sugar. The balls will flatten as they settle. The drops will last for weeks if stored in an airtight container. --- From: "Candy!" Makes about 70 Per piece: 25 calories, no protein, 6 grams carbohydrates, no fiber, no fat, no cholesterol, less than 1 milligram sodium