Divinity Candy is a classic Southern confection known for its soft, fluffy texture and melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. This easy recipe simplifies the traditional method, making it accessible for even beginner candy makers. With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a batch of irresistible, cloud-like candies perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Requires just a handful of pantry staples.
- Holiday Favorite: A timeless treat perfect for Christmas, Easter, or gifting.
- Light and Airy: The whipped texture is divine, true to its name.
- Customizable: Add nuts, flavorings, or food coloring to suit your tastes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Granulated sugar
- Light corn syrup
- Water
- Egg whites
- Vanilla extract
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Directions
- Prepare Your Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper and set it aside.
- Make the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
- Heat the Syrup: Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan and cook the syrup until it reaches 250°F (hard-ball stage). Avoid stirring once the mixture starts boiling.
- Whip the Egg Whites: While the syrup is cooking, beat the egg whites in a stand mixer or with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Combine: Slowly pour the hot syrup into the whipped egg whites while continuing to beat on high speed. Add the vanilla extract.
- Beat Until Thick: Continue beating until the mixture loses its gloss and holds its shape. This can take 5-10 minutes.
- Add Nuts (Optional): Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts if desired.
- Shape the Candy: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Work quickly, as the candy sets fast.
- Cool: Allow the divinity to set completely at room temperature, about 1-2 hours.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 24 pieces
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1-2 hours
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Variations
- Flavored Divinity: Add a few drops of almond, peppermint, or lemon extract instead of vanilla.
- Colorful Divinity: Mix in a drop or two of food coloring to match holiday themes.
- Nut-Free Option: Skip the nuts for a pure, fluffy texture.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once set, drizzle the candies with melted chocolate for added decadence.
- Fruit-Inspired Divinity: Fold in dried cranberries or chopped candied fruit for a fruity twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store divinity candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Divinity can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place pieces in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with wax paper. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: This candy doesn’t require reheating.
FAQs
Why is my divinity candy too soft?
Soft candy is often caused by high humidity or not beating the mixture long enough. Ensure the candy is made in a dry environment and beat until it holds its shape.
Can I make divinity without a candy thermometer?
While a thermometer ensures accuracy, you can test the syrup by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a firm ball that holds its shape, it’s ready.
What can I use instead of corn syrup?
Light corn syrup helps stabilize the candy, but you can substitute it with golden syrup or honey, though the flavor and texture may vary.
Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?
Yes, but a stand mixer is easier for prolonged beating. If using a hand mixer, ensure you have a stable setup for pouring the syrup.
How do I know when to stop beating the mixture?
The mixture should lose its glossy appearance and hold its shape when dropped from a spoon.
Why did my divinity turn out grainy?
Graininess is usually caused by undissolved sugar crystals. Stir the syrup well initially and avoid introducing sugar crystals from the pan’s sides.
Can I add more than one type of nut?
Yes, a mix of pecans, walnuts, or even almonds works beautifully in divinity.
What’s the best way to shape the candy?
Use two spoons to scoop and drop the mixture onto the baking sheet. Work quickly, as the candy sets fast.
Can I double this recipe?
It’s best to make divinity in small batches to ensure even cooking and mixing.
How does weather affect divinity candy?
Humidity is the enemy of divinity! Make it on a dry day to avoid sticky or runny results.
Conclusion
Easy Divinity Candy is a delightful homemade treat that brings a touch of Southern tradition to your table. With its light, airy texture and sweet flavor, this candy is perfect for holidays, gifting, or satisfying your sweet tooth. Try this recipe today and experience the simple joy of making (and eating) divinity!
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Easy Divinity Candy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Divinity candy is a light and airy treat with a marshmallow-like texture, often flavored with vanilla and studded with nuts. This no-fail version simplifies the process, perfect for holidays, parties, or gifting.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Workspace:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. Set aside.
- Make the Sugar Syrup:
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
- Stop stirring and let the mixture boil until it reaches 250°F (hard-ball stage) on a candy thermometer. This will take about 8-10 minutes.
- Beat the Egg Whites:
- While the syrup is boiling, beat the egg whites and salt in a stand mixer (or with a hand mixer) on high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Combine the Mixtures:
- Once the syrup reaches 250°F, remove it from heat. Gradually pour the hot syrup in a slow, steady stream into the beaten egg whites while the mixer runs on medium speed.
- Increase the speed to high and beat the mixture until it thickens, becomes glossy, and holds its shape, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Flavor and Nuts:
- Mix in the vanilla extract and nuts (if using) just until combined.
- Scoop the Candy:
- Using two spoons, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, working quickly before the candy sets.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the divinity candy set at room temperature for about 2 hours or until firm. Store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Avoid making divinity on a humid day, as it can prevent the candy from setting properly.
- For colorful variations, add a drop or two of food coloring while mixing.
- Experiment with different flavors like almond or peppermint extract for a unique twist.