Preparation

In C.S. Lewis's The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Edmund betrays his siblings for the White Witch's Turkish Delight—enchanted candy so delicious he'd do anything for more. While this version lacks magical compulsion, the perfumed sweetness and tender, bouncy texture is transportive enough.

Making the Candy

1. Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper and lightly oil it.
2. In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, 1/2 cup cornstarch, cream of tartar, and 3 cups water.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves and mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
4. In a separate pot, whisk remaining 3/4 cup cornstarch with remaining 1 1/2 cups water until smooth.
5. Cook this cornstarch mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it becomes a thick, translucent paste.
6. Very slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the cornstarch paste, stirring constantly.
7. Reduce heat to low and cook for 1 hour, stirring every 10 minutes. It will transform into a thick, glossy gel.
8. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, rosewater, and a few drops of pink coloring.
9. Pour half into the prepared pan, sprinkle with pistachios, then top with remaining mixture.
10. Let set at room temperature overnight, uncovered.

Cutting and Coating

1. Mix remaining cornstarch with powdered sugar.
2. Turn out the candy and cut into small cubes with an oiled knife.
3. Toss each piece in the sugar mixture until thoroughly coated.
4. Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers.

Serve on a wintery day, preferably without any offers of betrayal on the side.