Cashew Delights

  Servings       : 1
  Categories     : Candies

      1 1/8   pints brown sugar
          2   sticks Margarine, or Butter
          1   cup Light Corn Syrup
          1   dash Salt
          1   can sweetened condensed milk, 14 oz
          1   teaspoon vanilla Extract
      1 3/4   pounds Cashews, Whole
          1   cup Chocolate Chips, Semi-Sweet Morsels
          1   cup Chocolate Chips, Milk Chocolate
          2   teaspoons vegetable oil

  THIS RECIPE MAY HAVE BEEN SCALED TO A FRACTION OF THE ORIGINAL.  THE ORIGINAL
  RECIPE CALLED FOR 1 CAN OF SWEETENED CONDENSED MILK.  THE NUMBER OF CANS IN THE
  CURRENT PRINTING = THE NUMBER OF TIMES THE RECIPE WAS MULTIPLIED.

  It is important to test the candy thermometer first.  Heat water to boiling and
  check temperature.  It should be 212° Farenheit.

  In large saucepan, combine the first four ingredients.  Cook over medium heat
  until all the sugar is dissolved.
  ** It takes a long time to dissolve the sugar **
  Gradually add milk and mix well.
  Continue cooking until candy thermometer reads 248° (Firm ball stage).
  Remove from heat.
  Stir in vanilla until blended.
  Fold in the cashews.
  Drop by TABLESPOONS onto PARCHMENT PAPER ONLY.
  Loosen from paper.
  Melt chocolate chips and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl.
  Drizzle over cluster.
  Cool.
  2009 - Changed recipe from shortening to vegetable oil in chocolate topping.

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Yield: 1/2 batch makes ~ 2 dozen