Walnut season invites families to fix a batch of hand-cracked nuts and sugary praline. Made by adding walnuts to cooked sugar, this homemade confection is mellowed with a hint of cinnamon and a measure of vanilla for old-time taste.

Edith's Spiced Nuts

1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 cups chopped walnuts
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Grease a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan; set aside.
2. Combine sugar and water in a saucepan; boil until the syrup forms a hard ball when dropped in cold water (250 to 268°F) on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat; stir in cinnamon. Add walnuts and vanilla. Stir until nuts are thoroughly coated. Spread onto pan to cool. Break into pieces before serving.

Makes 3 cups.

Note: Hard ball stage is reached when candy forms a firm ball that holds its shape but is still pliable.