CHOCOLATE-COATED HONEYCOMB The baking soda causes the syrup to foam, forming thousands of holes that recall a honeycomb, thus the name of this delectable confection, which is also known as sponge candy. Make it without the chocolate coating as well. It will still be delicious. 1/2 cup firmly packed golden brown sugar 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1 cup dark corn syrup 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 1 tablespoon baking soda, sifted 12 oz (375 g) semisweet chocolate, chopped  Line a 9-inch square baking pan with 2-inch sides with aluminum foil, extending the foil over the sides. Butter the foil generously.

In a large, heavy, deep saucepan, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, corn syrup, vinegar, and butter. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugars dissolve. Clip a candy thermometer onto the side of the pan. Cook, swirling the pan occasionally but not stirring, until the thermometer registers 300°F, about 15 minutes. Remove from the heat, add the baking soda, and stir until well combined (the mixture will foam). Immediately pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Let cool, about 2 hours. Using the foil, lift the candy from the pan; fold down the sides of the foil away from the candy sheet. Cut or break the candy into rough 1-inch pieces.

Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place the chocolate in the top pan of a double boiler or in a heatproof bowl. Place over (not touching) simmering water in the lower pan. Heat, stirring frequently, until melted and smooth. Remove from the heat.

Add 1 piece of the candy to the chocolate and, using 2 forks, turn to coat. Slip 1 fork under the candy, lift it from the chocolate, and tap the fork gently against the side of the pan to allow any excess chocolate to drip off. Using the second fork, gently slide the candy onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining candy.

Refrigerate, uncovered, until the chocolate is firm, about 1 hour. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Makes about 750 g candy.

[After Dinner, Williams-Sonoma Lifestyles Series]