Grandma's Molasses Candy

Old-time molasses brittle candy just like Grandma—and her grandma—use to make.

Recipe Ingredients:

2 cups molasses
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vinegar
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 to 3 cups walnuts, chopped (optional)

Cooking Directions:

1. Butter a 15x10x1-inch baking sheet; set aside. (Note: warming the baking sheet in the oven will help to spread the candy thinner.)
2. In a heavy saucepan combine all ingredients, except walnuts. Cook and stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Continue cooking, without stirring, to 230°F (110°C). Then cook and stir to 280°F (135°C). Stir in walnuts; cook, stirring constantly to 300°F (150°C). Remove pan from heat.
3. Quickly stir in baking soda, mixing well. Immediately pour onto prepared baking sheet, spreading candy to an even thickness. As candy cools, stretch it thinner by lifting and pulling with 2 forks. Break candy into pieces when cool.

Makes about 2 pounds with walnuts added.