• Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has fully dissolved.
• Step 2: Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the temperature reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer.
• Step 3: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the ground cinnamon until well combined. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring and stir to incorporate.
• Step 4: Carefully pour the hot cinnamon syrup into a heat-proof container or onto a silicone baking mat, spreading it out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
• Step 5: Allow the syrup to cool completely, which can take several hours or overnight. Once cooled, the syrup will have hardened into a crystallized sheet.
• Step 6: Break the hardened cinnamon candy into desired shapes and sizes, using wooden skewers or lollipop sticks to create the classic rock candy look.