Marys Christmas Divinity

2 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup white corn syrup
2 egg whites stiffly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 cup broken nut meats (optional)
Pinch of salt
Food coloring (optional)

Beat the egg white in a large bowl and set aside. In a saucepan, boil the sugar, water and syrup while stirring gently. The mixture is done at 235 degrees or if it forms a soft ball when a tablespoon full is dropped into cold water.
Pour the mixture over the beaten egg white, beating continually. Add vanilla, nuts and a pinch of salt. Add a few drops of red or green food coloring if desired. Beat this mixture until it is almost hard, then drop by the teaspoonful onto waxed paper.
Makes about 35 - 40 pieces.