Walnut Brittle

Directions

1. 1
   Shake nuts in a sieve to remove nut powder (this will make for a clearer brittle.)
2. 2
   Line a baking sheet with nonstick pad or with an oiled sheet of foil.
3. 3
   Heat sugar and water in a deep 2-quart heavy saucepan over moderately low heat, stirring slowly with a fork, until melted and pale golden.
4. 4
   Cook caramel without stirring, gently swirling pan, until golden.
5. 5
   Stir in walnuts, then immediately pour caramel onto baking sheet, tilting sheet to spread caramel as thin as possible.
6. 6
   Cool brittle completely at room temperature.
7. 7
   Coarsely chop enough brittle to measure 1/2 cup, then break remainder into shards for decorating cake.