2 1/4 c. sugar, divided
1 1/2 sticks butter
3/4 c. evaporated milk
1/3 c. powdered sugar
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla

Place 1/2 cup sugar in heavy saucepan or iron skillet. Cook over medium heat until sugar turns brown, stirring constantly. Add butter, when melted add 1 cup sugar and milk. Bring mixture to a boil and add remaining sugar. Continue to boil, stirring frequently, until soft ball stage. Remove from heat, beat well then add powdered sugar and vanilla. Continue to beat until almost spreading consistency. Frosting will thicken quickly when cool.