SPUN-SUGAR NEST

Steps:

• Cover a low counter or work surface with parchment paper. Using masking tape, attach a wooden spoon to the counter so its handle extends over the edge. Cover floor of surrounding area with parchment paper.
• Stir together 2/3 cup water, sugar, and corn syrup in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. (Do not stir.) Cover; cook until sugar crystals are dissolved, about 2 to 3 minutes. Uncover; cook until mixture turns amber, about 5 minutes. Swirl pan to even out color. Remove caramel from heat.
• Cut the looped ends of a wire whisk with wire cutters (or use two forks held back to back). Dip ends into caramel. Standing over the spoon handle, swing caramel back and forth like a pendulum over the handle in long arcs. The sugar should solidify slightly in the air, drawing out long threadlike strands. As sugar drapes itself over handle, gather it up in small bunches, and transfer to parchment paper. Arrange small bunches of spun sugar around base of hen cake to make the nest.