Lollipops (Blizalki)

As the sugar dissolves (5 to 15 min) and a syrup forms — to check, I dip a small spoon into a glass of cold water, then into the mixture, then back into the glass and touch it; if it's hard, it's ready.

When it's ready after the glass test, and while still on the stove, I add vanilla extract (or another flavoring) and coloring, stir simply by swirling the pan, and pour into a heat-proof jug. When the little bubbles disappear I can make the lollipops.