Almond Brittle

Directions

1. 1
   Bring the water to a boil in a large, heavy saucepan over moderate heat.
2. 2
   Stir in the sugar and corn syrup until dissolved.
3. 3
   Cook to the hard-ball stage (250F, 121C) and add the almonds and salt.
4. 4
   Cook, stirring occasionally, to the hard-crack stage (300F, 150C).
5. 5
   Remove from the heat and stir in the butter, vanilla, and baking soda.
6. 6
   Pour the mixture onto a well buttered slab or baking sheet and spread it out with a spatula, making it as thin as possible while it is still hot.
7. 7
   Cool to room temperature and break into pieces.
8. 8
   Store in an airtight container.