Burnt-Sugar Cake - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 3/4 c. sugar
3/4 c. boiling water
2/3 c. soft butter
1 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs, separated
3 c. sifted cake flour
3 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
3/4 c. milk

Preparation

In a small heavy skillet, heat 3/4 cup sugar, stirring until a brown syrup forms and mixture begins to smoke. VERY GRADUALLY (because of spattering), stir in boiling water and remove from heat. Cool thoroughly.