4 c. granulated sugar
1 c. light corn syrup
1/2 c. water
1/4 tsp. salt
3 egg whites
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. chopped nuts (optional)
1/2 c. chocolate morsels (optional)

Mix together granulated sugar, corn syrup, water and salt in a 3 quart mixing bowl. Cook on full power, for 20 to 22 minutes, stirring after every six or seven minutes. Cook until hard ball stage (260 F.).

After sugar mixture has cooked about 17 minutes, place egg whites in clean bowl and beat gradually until they form stiff peaks. Slowly pour hot syrup over the egg whites, while continuing to beat at high speed. Continue beating for about 12 minutes, or until the candy has thickened and begun to lose its gloss. Add vanilla and chocolate chips and/or nuts.

Drop by tablespoons onto waxed paper or spread into a lightly greased 3 x 7 x 11 1/2 inch pan, and cut into pieces.