Directions

1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar with 1 cup water; cook, stirring occasionally, over medium heat until it registers 236 degrees.(soft ball stage) on a candy thermometer. Brush down sides of pan with a wet pastry brush to prevent crystallization.
2. Blend eggs in a blender jar. With machine running, very slowly add hot sugar syrup until combined, being careful to not scramble the eggs. Let cool to room temperature.
3. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter until pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Gradually add syrup mixture until incorporated. Add vanilla, and beat until desired consistency.

First published: May 2006