The Alcohol Syrup
A good vodka (or equally strong alcohol) is the best choice. Flavored vodkas are great and add to the candy appeal.
Recipe is as follows.
250g granulated sugar
84g water
52.5g vodka
The Corn Starch
The first step is to make a cast for the syrup. Do this by sifting enough cornstarch to support the cast. The one above is made inside a sheet pan cake mold. The cornstarch must first be dried at 120C for an hour or more. Fill the mold as high as necessary, level it off, and make the 'pill' holes. This can be done with a dowel with the desired shape. Make the Home Depot kicked up version for hole making by screwing pre-cut dowels onto a board the length of the mold.
This expediates the process, but also allows for a more consistent final product. Lay the holes out a couple of inches from each other.
Carefully check the holes for smoothness, then apply the syrup. This is done easily with a squeeze bottle. Fill each hole almost completely, allowing a little room on top to cover the syrup.
Immediately afterwards, sift cornstarch over the syrup casts to completely cover. Anywhere from 1/4 to 1/2 inch cornstarch cover is enough.
Next Step... Patience
Now you must wait! 24 hours is the key here. Other processes may take less or more time, but one day is not bad at all. You will need a small sifter and a soft dry brush. Scoop out the 'pills' with a spoon and use the brush to carefully knock off any excess clinging corn starch. That's it. You're ready.