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Prepare your workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. Set aside.
Make the sugar syrup:
In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water.
Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 250°F (hard-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
Beat the egg whites:
While the syrup cooks, beat the egg whites in a stand mixer or with a hand mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.
Combine syrup and egg whites:
Gradually pour the hot syrup into the whipped egg whites in a slow, steady stream while continuing to beat on high speed.
Add vanilla extract and continue beating until the mixture holds its shape and loses its gloss (about 5-6 minutes).
Fold in nuts (if using): Gently stir in the chopped nuts.
Shape the divinity: