Description
Divinity candy is a delightful, airy treat with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Made with a simple combination of sugar, egg whites, and vanilla, it’s perfect for the holidays or any sweet tooth craving. The addition of pecans or walnuts gives it a nutty crunch, while the glossy finish makes it a beautiful homemade gift or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Sugar Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
- Cook the Syrup: Once the mixture reaches a boil, stop stirring and continue to cook until it reaches the hard-ball stage, which is about 250°F (121°C) on a candy thermometer.
- Whip the Egg Whites: While the syrup is cooking, beat the egg whites and salt in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer or stand mixer. Beat until stiff peaks form.
- Combine the Syrup and Egg Whites: Once the syrup reaches 250°F, carefully pour the hot syrup in a thin, steady stream into the egg whites while continuing to beat constantly. Be cautious to avoid splattering. Continue beating until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and holds stiff peaks.
- Add Flavor and Nuts: Stir in the vanilla extract and, if desired, the chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) for added texture and flavor.
- Shape the Divinity: Drop spoonfuls of the candy mixture onto wax paper or parchment paper, forming small mounds.
- Cool and Harden: Allow the Divinity candy to cool and harden at room temperature for about 1-2 hours.
- Store: Once hardened, store the candy in an airtight container for up to one week.
Notes
- Make Ahead: The candy can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Humidity: If you live in a humid climate, Divinity may not set properly. It’s best to make it on a dry day for optimal results.
- Storing: Ensure the candy is completely cooled and hardened before storing to avoid stickiness.
- Flavor Add-ins: For a fun twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or peppermint extract to the candy mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 100 kcal
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0mg