This is a million times better than trying to use plain sugar. Sometimes when you use sugar only the nuts are as hard as a rock. You can substitute pecans for any nut. Catherine Woolley shared this recipe with me back when we worked at Novell.
1 c. sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 c. water
1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 c. Pecans
method:
cook over medium heat until softball stage (236 degrees fahrenheit). Remove from heat and add 1/2 tsp. vanilla and pecans. Stir until pecans are coated & has a creamy texture.