Easy Divinity Candy

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy Divinity candy recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple, requiring just a handful of ingredients, but the result is both impressive and delicious. The texture is light and airy, almost like a cloud of sweetness, making it feel indulgent without being overly rich. The candy’s glossy finish, complemented by a touch of vanilla and optional chopped nuts, makes it a visually stunning treat. Plus, the recipe doesn’t require any special equipment besides a candy thermometer and an electric mixer. It’s the kind of recipe you can make when you want a homemade, sweet gift or a quick holiday dessert to share with friends and family.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. In a heavy saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved.

  2. Once the sugar is dissolved, stop stirring and continue cooking until the mixture reaches 250°F (120°C) on a candy thermometer (this is the hard ball stage). Once it reaches the right temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat.

  3. While the syrup is cooking, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites in a large bowl on high speed until stiff peaks form.

  4. Gradually pour the hot syrup in a thin stream into the beaten egg whites, all while continuing to beat on high speed. Add the vanilla extract.

  5. Keep beating until the mixture begins to lose its gloss and starts to hold its shape, which should take about 5-8 minutes. If you’re using nuts, gently fold them into the mixture once it has reached the right consistency.

  6. Working quickly, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto wax paper. The candy will set fast, so be sure to move swiftly. Let the divinity cool completely before serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 24 pieces
  • Calories: 120 kcal per piece

Variations

  • Nut-Free: If you prefer your divinity without nuts, simply leave them out. The candy will still have the same delicious flavor and texture.
  • Flavor Variations: For a twist, you can experiment with different extracts like almond or hazelnut instead of vanilla to give your divinity a unique flavor.
  • Chocolate Dipped: After the divinity has cooled, you can dip the bottoms of each piece in melted chocolate for an added indulgent touch.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store your divinity in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 1-2 weeks. Just be sure to keep it in a dry, cool place to prevent it from becoming sticky.
  • Reheating: Since divinity candy sets quickly and is made with a meringue base, it doesn’t require reheating. However, if the candy becomes too soft, you can leave it in a dry area to firm up again.

FAQs

How do I know when the syrup has reached 250°F?

You’ll need a candy thermometer for accuracy. Once the syrup reaches the “hard ball” stage, or 250°F (120°C), it’s ready to be poured into the egg whites.

Can I make divinity candy without a candy thermometer?

While a candy thermometer is ideal for accuracy, you can test the syrup by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a hard ball that holds its shape, it’s ready.

Why is my divinity too sticky?

Divinity can become sticky if the humidity is too high or if the syrup wasn’t cooked to the correct temperature. Make candy on a dry, low-humidity day for the best results.

Can I use any type of nuts in this recipe?

Yes, you can use any nuts you like, such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds. Just chop them into small pieces and fold them in at the end.

What happens if I over-beat the egg whites?

If you over-beat the egg whites, they may become dry or start to break down, resulting in a less fluffy texture for your candy. It’s best to stop once they form stiff peaks.

How should I store divinity candy?

Store divinity in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It should stay fresh for 1-2 weeks if kept properly.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients if you need more divinity. Just be sure to use a larger mixing bowl and saucepan.

Can I use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar?

It’s best to use granulated sugar for this recipe, as powdered sugar will alter the texture and consistency of the candy.

Why is my divinity too runny?

If the candy is too runny, it could be because the syrup didn’t reach the correct temperature, or the egg whites weren’t beaten to stiff peaks. Make sure to follow the steps carefully for the best outcome.

Can I make divinity in advance for the holidays?

Absolutely! Divinity makes a great make-ahead treat. Just store it properly, and it will last for several days or even a week, depending on the humidity.

Conclusion

Making divinity candy at home is easier than you might think, and this recipe will guide you to create a batch of light, sweet, and glossy candies that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re gifting them to loved ones or enjoying them yourself, this classic treat will always bring smiles. With a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can master the art of divinity in no time. Happy candy making!

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Easy Divinity Candy

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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 pieces
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

Divinity candy is a classic, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s light, airy, and perfectly sweet. This easy recipe requires just a few ingredients and can be made without special equipment. The candy’s glossy finish and fluffy texture make it perfect for holidays or special occasions. Make this divinity candy at home today and impress your friends and family!

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  • In a heavy saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved.
  • Once the sugar is dissolved, stop stirring and continue cooking until the mixture reaches 250°F (120°C) on a candy thermometer (hard ball stage). Remove from heat.
  • While the syrup cooks, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites on high speed until stiff peaks form.
  • Gradually pour the hot syrup into the egg whites in a thin stream, continuing to beat on high speed. Add vanilla extract.
  • Keep beating until the mixture loses its gloss and holds its shape (5-8 minutes). If using nuts, gently fold them in once the mixture is ready.
  • Quickly drop spoonfuls onto wax paper. Let cool completely before serving.

Notes

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 weeks.
  • For nut-free divinity, omit the nuts.
  • Experiment with different extracts (e.g., almond or hazelnut) for unique flavors.
  • For extra indulgence, dip the cooled divinity in melted chocolate.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Candy, Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop, Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

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