Christmas Divinity - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 1/2 c. granulated sugar
1/2 c. light corn syrup
1/3 c. water
2 egg whites
1 tsp. vanilla
3/4 c. coarsely chopped pecans or pistachios
3/4 c. candied red and green cherries
3 Tbsp. shortening
1/2 c. cocoa

Preparation

In top of double boiler over hot water, melt shortening; add cocoa and stir until smooth.
Set aside over warm water.
In large saucepan, combine sugar, syrup and water; cook over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
Lower heat slightly and cook uncovered, without stirring, to 260\u00b0 (hard-ball stage).
Remove from heat.
Immediately, pour syrup in a thin stream into egg whites, beating on high speed of electric mixer.
Add vanilla; beat until candy begins to hold its shape.
Quickly blend in cocoa mixture, nuts and cherries.
Drop by teaspoons onto wax paper.