Description
Homemade Divinity Candy is a melt-in-your-mouth confection made from a fluffy, airy mixture of egg whites, sugar, and light corn syrup. With a subtle touch of vanilla and a sprinkle of pecans or other nuts, this sweet treat is perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. Its smooth, creamy texture and light, airy consistency make it an irresistible candy that’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (or your preferred nut)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the egg whites:
- In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. This may take 5-7 minutes, so be patient.
- Make the sugar syrup:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, and then use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Once the syrup reaches 250°F (121°C), remove it from the heat.
- Combine the syrup and egg whites:
- With the mixer running on low speed, carefully pour the hot syrup in a thin stream into the stiff egg whites. Be careful not to pour it directly onto the beaters to avoid splattering.
- Once all the syrup is added, increase the mixer speed to medium-high and continue beating the mixture until it thickens and holds stiff peaks, about 5-10 minutes.
- Add the vanilla and nuts:
- Stir in the vanilla extract, and then gently fold in the chopped pecans (or other nuts of your choice).
- The mixture should be thick and fluffy at this point.
- Shape the divinity:
- Quickly spoon the divinity mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or wax paper in small mounds. The candy sets fast, so work quickly.
- Let the divinity cool completely at room temperature until firm, about 2 hours.
- Serve and enjoy:
- Once set, the divinity is ready to serve! You can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Notes
- If the weather is very humid, divinity can be tricky to set. Try to make it on a dry day for the best results.
- You can omit the nuts if desired, or substitute them with other ingredients like dried fruit or mini chocolate chips.
- Make sure the egg whites are free from any yolk or grease to get the best stiff peaks.
- Divinity makes a lovely gift for the holidays when packaged in a decorative tin or box.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Candy, Dessert
- Method: Candy-making, Beating
- Cuisine: American