Cinnamon Almond Brittle

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 200°. Grease 2
2. 2
   with 1 teaspoon butter; place in oven to warm.
3. 3
   In a large heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup and water. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly to dissolve sugar. Using a pastry brush dipped in water, wash down the sides of the pan to eliminate sugar crystals. Cook, without stirring, over medium heat until a candy thermometer reads 240° (soft-ball stage). Stir in almonds, cinnamon, salt and remaining butter; cook until thermometer reads 300° (hard-crack stage), stirring frequently and brushing sides of pan as needed.
4. 4
   Remove from heat; stir in baking soda and vanilla. Immediately pour onto prepared pans, spreading to 1/4-in. thickness. Cool completely.
5. 5
   Break brittle into pieces. Store between layers of waxed paper in an airtight container.