Homemade candy sounds intimidating until you realize most of mine skip the candy thermometer entirely (I’m impatient, and I bet you are too). These are the recipes I make by the batch to box up for family, neighbors and the fire station every December, like Classic Peppermint Bark, ridiculously easy Crockpot Candy, and soft Microwave Caramels. If you’ve ever been scared off by sugar work, start here.