Grandma’s Heavenly Divinity

Grandmother’s Heavenly Divinity

There’s something magical about the holidays, isn’t there? The joy, the warmth, and of course, the sweet treats that bring us all together. One such treat that holds a special place in my heart is Grandma’s Heavenly Divinity. Each year, as Christmas approaches, I find myself reminiscing about the days spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, watching her transform simple ingredients into heavenly clouds of sugary bliss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grandma’s Heavenly Divinity is a nostalgic delight, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a heartfelt gift. Its fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture coupled with the rich flavors of vanilla and optional nuts or cherries will make it a favorite addition to your festive treats. Plus, the recipe is steeped in tradition, bringing a touch of history and family love to your holiday season.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan
• Candy thermometer
• Electric mixer
• Cooling racks
• Waxed paper

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 egg whites
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional) or 1/2 cup cherries (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare by laying sheets of waxed paper onto two cooling racks.
2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Heat over medium until the mixture reaches the hard ball stage at 250 degrees Fahrenheit, using a candy thermometer for accuracy.
3. As the syrup cooks, whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form using an electric mixer.
4. Once the syrup reaches 250 degrees, remove it from the heat and slowly pour it into the beaten egg whites while continuing to whip on high speed.
5. Add vanilla and continue whipping until the mixture holds its shape, about 5-6 minutes. Stir in chopped pecans or cherries if desired.
6. Using two teaspoons, quickly drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto prepared waxed paper. If the mixture starts to harden, add a few drops of warm water to loosen it.
7. Allow the Divinity to dry and harden, which can take a few hours or overnight. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Tips for Success

• Choose a day with low humidity for best results, as moisture can affect the texture of the Divinity.
• Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for better whipping.
• If the candy hardens too quickly while dropping onto waxed paper, a few drops of warm water can help.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a festive twist, add food coloring to match your holiday theme.
• Try different nuts or dried fruits for a unique flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This recipe yields approximately 40 servings. Each serving contains:

• Calories: 60
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0.5g (depending on nuts or cherries)
• Carbohydrates: 14g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why is humidity important when making Divinity?
A: High humidity can prevent the candy from setting properly, leading to a sticky texture. It’s best to make Divinity on a dry day.

Q: Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?
A: Light corn syrup is recommended for its neutral flavor and color, but dark syrup can be used if you prefer a richer taste.

Q: How should I store Divinity?
A: Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain its freshness.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Heavenly Divinity is more than just a candy; it’s a cherished tradition and a sweet connection to the past. I invite you to try this delightful recipe, share it with your loved ones, and create your own family memories. Please let me know how it turns out for you in the comments below—I’d love to hear your stories and see your creations!