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1
Whisk the gelatin, corn syrup, vanilla, salt and 1/2 cup boiling water in a stand mixer bowl until the gelatin dissolves.
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2
Using the paddle attachment, beat in the confectioners' sugar on medium-low speed, 1 cup at a time, to make a stiff, sticky dough.
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3
Transfer the dough to a clean surface and knead, adding more confectioners' sugar as needed (up to 1 cup), until the dough is smooth, pliable and slightly tacky, about 5 minutes.
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4
Divide the dough into 4 pieces.
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5
Flatten 1 piece into a disk.
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6
(Cover the rest with plastic wrap.)
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7
Add a few drops each of food coloring and extract to the center of the dough; fold in the sides and pinch closed, then knead until the color is distributed.
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8
Lightly coat a large piece of parchment paper with cooking spray.
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9
Roll out the colored dough on the parchment until 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
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10
Cut into hearts using 1-inch cookie cutters; transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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11
Repeat with the remaining dough, using different colors and extracts.
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12
Let the hearts sit at room temperature, uncovered, until dry and hard, about 24 hours, flipping them halfway through.
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13
Write messages on the hearts using food decorating pens.
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14
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
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15
Photograph by Sam Kaplan
