Divinity Nut Nougat Candies

Ingredients:

• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 2/3 cup water (warm)
• 2 egg whites
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (or other flavoring to taste)
• Optional: 1 cup chopped nuts of choice

Preparation:

1. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil and spraying the top with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves. Continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 120°C (250°F), the "hard-ball" stage.
3. In the bowl of a large stand mixer, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Slowly pour about half of the sugar syrup into the whites, whisking constantly.
4. Continue cooking the remaining syrup until it reaches 250°F (132°C), the "soft crack" stage.
5. With the mixer running, pour the remaining syrup into the egg whites. Continue whisking until you have a thick, glossy mixture that holds its shape.
6. Add vanilla extract and nuts, mix well.
7. Place a teaspoon of the mixture on a baking sheet and let it cool until it is completely set.
   
   Alternatively, instead of spooning the nougat, you can pour it into a 22cm square pan, cool it, and then cut it into small squares.