Almond crunch

This recipe came from my mother-in-law. I make several batches of it every year to use as Christmas gifts, and often take it as a gift for the hosts when we are invited to someone's home for dinner. It makes a pleasant change from a bottle of wine or a bunch of chrisanths.

The recipe is for a single batch. I usually make a double batch at a time.

Ingredients
250ml blanched, flaked almonds (not the toasted kind)
125ml sugar
30ml butter
2.5ml vanilla extract
Salt

Method
Before you start, it's a good idea to spread a sheet of foil/baking parchment on the counter - you will need this later

• Heat the sugar, butter and almonds in a heavy based skillet/frying pan over a medium heat
• Stir constantly until sugar is golden and almonds are toasted
• Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla
• Spread onto a sheet of foil/baking parchment
• Sprinkle with salt to taste
• Leave to cool
• Break into clusters