Generously oil the bottom and sides of a 15- x 10-inch jelly-roll pan. Stir together granulated sugar, 1/2 cup corn syrup, and 1/2 cup water in an oiled 3 1/2-qt. heavy saucepan over medium heat until a candy thermometer registers 300 to 310 (hard-crack stage, about 15 to 20 minutes).
Remove from heat, and carefully stir in peppermint flavoring and food coloring until well blended; quickly pour mixture onto prepared jelly-roll pan. Cool 45 minutes or until completely cool. Carefully break into pieces.
Carefully brush or dip edges (some edges will be jagged and sharp) of candy pieces with remaining 1/4 cup corn syrup, allowing excess syrup to drip off.
Sprinkle with clear sparkling sugar.
Clear Sparkling Peppermint Candy: Omit red food coloring. Proceed with recipe as directed.
