Torrones - a Christmas Time Nougat Candy

These candies are made by all different nationalities, each claiming their "own" special touches, all over the world. I found these on Easy Entertaining by Michael Chiarello on the foodnetwork.com.

• Ready In: 20 mins
• Serves: 12-16

Ingredients

• 2 2⁄3 cups  superfine sugar
• 2⁄3 cup light corn syrup
• 1⁄2 cup water
• 2  egg whites, at room temperature
• 2  teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1  teaspoon  almond extract
• 1  teaspoon  orange extract (optional)
• 1⁄2 cup  candied fruit (optional)
•  candied fruit, garnish (optional)
• 1  cup  sliced almonds

Directions

1. Combine sugar, corn syrup and water in saucepan.
2. Cook over medium heat until candy thermometer registers at 260°F.
3. In an electric mixer, beat egg whites to form stiff peaks.
4. When sugar reaches 260°F pour slowly in a thin stream into egg whites, while mixer is running.
5. Add extracts and beat on medium speed for 13 minutes; then fold in candied fruit, if using, and mix for another 2 minutes.
6. Now fold in 1/2 cup sliced almonds.
7. Pour mixture in buttered and lightly dusted floured 9" pan.
8. Top with remaining almonds.
9. Let sit overnight and then cut into pieces.
10. Serve on a "festive" decorated plate.