Easy Homemade Divinity Candy
Easy Homemade Divinity Candy: A Sweet Delight
This Easy Homemade Divinity is incredible! Smooth, fudgy, and delectable, this snow-white candy is surprisingly simple to make!
Confession time: I had only tried divinity once before attempting this recipe, and it was from See’s Candies, a local favorite you might have heard of. I also recall an ex-boyfriend whose grandma adored divinity, so I once gifted her a box for Christmas. For me, divinity has always felt like a holiday treat. It’s snow-white, which is unusual for candy, resembling little melty snowballs. Plus, its fudge-like texture evokes festive memories.
Divinity is particularly popular in the South and is believed to have been created by Karo corn syrup as a marketing tool for their product. It’s a delightful blend of fudge, nougat, and meringue, standing out from the typical barks, brittles, and fudges found during the holiday season. If you haven’t tried making it yet, I highly recommend it!
The great thing about this recipe is its versatility. I chose a classic vanilla pecan divinity, but you can switch things up by using peppermint extract and adding shredded coconut or swapping pecans for walnuts. The choice is yours!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll adore this recipe because it’s a unique twist on traditional holiday sweets. It’s not only delicious but also visually stunning, resembling snowballs that melt in your mouth. Plus, it’s flexible enough to adapt to your flavor preferences.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Heavy 2-quart saucepan
- Candy thermometer
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Lightly greased wax paper
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- Garnish: toasted pecan halves
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine the sugar, water, corn syrup, and salt in a heavy 2-quart saucepan. Cook over low heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches 248°F on a candy thermometer (about 15 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites at high speed until stiff peaks form. Gradually pour half of the hot syrup over the egg whites in a thin stream, continuing to beat at high speed for about 5 minutes.
- Return the remaining syrup to medium heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches 272°F (about 4 to 5 minutes). Slowly pour this hot syrup and the vanilla extract over the egg white mixture, beating constantly at high speed until the mixture holds its shape (about 6 to 8 minutes). Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Quickly drop the mixture by rounded teaspoonfuls onto lightly greased wax paper. Garnish with toasted pecan halves, if desired. Allow to cool completely.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature for better volume.
- Work quickly when dropping the mixture onto wax paper, as it sets fast.
- Use a candy thermometer to achieve precise temperature measurements.
Additional Tips and Variations
For a refreshing twist, try using peppermint extract instead of vanilla and add shredded coconut. You can also experiment with different nuts such as walnuts or almonds for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While specific nutritional values will vary, divinity candy is generally high in sugar and should be enjoyed in moderation. It’s a delightful treat to savor during special occasions!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make divinity candy without a candy thermometer?
While it’s possible, using a candy thermometer ensures the syrup reaches the exact temperatures needed for the right consistency.
Why did my divinity turn out sticky?
Humidity can affect the texture of divinity. Make sure to prepare it on a dry day, and ensure the syrup reaches the correct temperature.
Can I store divinity candy?
Yes, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Conclusion
Ready to try this delightful Easy Homemade Divinity Candy? It’s a sweet journey worth taking, and we’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts and any creative variations you try. Enjoy the sweet magic of homemade divinity!
