Name: Divinity Candy Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American Southern
Ingredients: 2 2/3 cups granulated sugar; 2/3 cup light corn syrup; 1/2 cup water; 2 large egg whites (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; pinch of salt; 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

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If you’re searching for an old-fashioned treat that brings back memories of holidays and special gatherings, Divinity Candy just might be your answer. This Southern classic dissolves like a sugar cloud on your tongue, with a sweet vanilla flavor and those iconic fluffy peaks. Whether you go the traditional route or sneak in a handful of crunchy nuts, Divinity Candy transforms simple pantry staples into a truly magical confection that’s beloved by generations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Divinity Candy so delightful is how it transforms a handful of everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Each element in this recipe has a special role, from structure to flavor or that irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Granulated sugar: The foundation of Divinity Candy, giving it structure and sweetness.
Light corn syrup: This helps prevent crystallization, ensuring your candy stays smooth and glossy.
Water: Essential for dissolving the sugar and achieving just the right syrup consistency.
Egg whites (room temperature): Whip up to airy, stiff peaks, providing the signature fluffiness.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and that hint of classic flavor you expect in Divinity Candy.
Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): For an extra layer of crunch and nutty richness—completely up to you!
Pinch of salt: Enhances all the other flavors, making your candy pop just a little more.

How to Make Divinity Candy

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. You’ll want to have everything ready so you can move fast once the candy is whipped and glossy—Divinity Candy sets up quickly!

Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine your sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir the mixture just until the sugar has fully dissolved; after that, resist the urge to stir and bring it to a boil. Patience here pays off! Let it cook until it reaches 260°F (the hard ball stage) using a trusty candy thermometer.

Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites

While your syrup bubbles away, add your room temperature egg whites and a pinch of salt to a stand mixer or a large bowl if using a hand mixer. Beat on high speed until the egg whites hold stiff peaks—the airiness here is what gives Divinity Candy its signature cloud-like texture.

Step 4: Pour in the Hot Syrup

Once your syrup reaches the right temperature, very slowly pour it in a thin, steady stream into the whipped egg whites. Keep your mixer running on high speed as you go! This step is key to getting that glossy finish and beautiful, fluffy structure for your Divinity Candy.

Step 5: Beat Until Glossy and Thick

Continue beating the mixture on high for 5 to 7 minutes, or until it’s thick, glossy, and starts to hold its shape. It should almost look like billowy meringue. Beat in vanilla extract for a burst of sweetness, then fold in your chopped nuts if you’re going for that classic Southern twist.

Step 6: Shape and Dry

Working quickly, drop rounded spoonfuls (or pipe, if you’re feeling fancy) onto your prepared baking sheet. Let the Divinity Candy sit at room temperature for at least two hours, until the pieces are firm and dry to the touch. It’s hard to wait, but the results are worth it!

How to Serve Divinity Candy

Garnishes

Although Divinity Candy shines all on its own, a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar can take things up a notch. For the ultimate Southern finish, try topping each piece with a whole pecan half—simple, classic, and oh-so-pretty.

Side Dishes

Divinity Candy pairs beautifully with other holiday treats like fudge, pralines, or buttery shortbread. For a special dessert platter, arrange alongside citrus slices or fresh berries to complement that sweet vanilla flavor with something fresh and tangy.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is part of the fun! Pile your Divinity Candy pieces into vintage tins for gifting, or stack them in glass jars tied with ribbon for an old-fashioned touch. For parties, display on a tiered dessert stand surrounded by sprigs of fresh rosemary or edible flowers for a festive pop.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Divinity Candy is at its best the day it’s made, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Be sure to layer parchment or wax paper between the pieces to prevent them from sticking together.

Freezing

Freezing Divinity Candy isn’t recommended, as the delicate texture tends to suffer upon thawing. The candy may become sticky or overly soft, so for maximum delight, enjoy it fresh or well-sealed at room temperature.

Reheating

This is one treat you don’t need to reheat! Divinity Candy is meant to be enjoyed at room temperature, where it stays tender and airy. If your candy picks up moisture and gets a little soft, you can let it sit uncovered for a bit to help it dry out again.

FAQs

Why did my Divinity Candy turn out sticky?

Humidity is often the culprit! Divinity is incredibly sensitive to moisture in the air. Try making it on a dry day and be sure to cook your syrup to exactly 260°F for best results.

Can I make Divinity Candy without nuts?

Absolutely! The nuts are optional and just add a bit of crunch and tradition. The candy itself is stunning even without them, so feel free to skip or swap in your favorite add-ins.

Do I need a candy thermometer?

While you might see old-timers eyeball their syrup, a candy thermometer is the surest way to reach the perfect stage and texture for Divinity Candy. It takes the guesswork out and delivers consistent results.

Can I double the recipe?

You can, but be aware that larger batches can be tricky to mix fast enough before the candy starts setting. If you’re new to making Divinity Candy, stick with a single batch for best success.

Help! My mixture got too stiff to drop by spoonfuls. What happened?

This likely means the mixture was beaten a bit too long. Next time, keep a close eye on the texture as you beat; as soon as it looks thick, glossy, and holds its shape, it’s ready. Quick action is important!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something joyful about sharing a platter of Divinity Candy, whether you’re carrying on a family tradition or falling in love with it for the first time. Give this recipe a try—you might find a new favorite to treasure and pass along, one melt-in-your-mouth piece at a time!

Divinity Candy Recipe

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4.9 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes (plus drying)
Yield: 24 pieces 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make classic Divinity Candy, a delightful Southern treat perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. This airy, sweet confection with a hint of vanilla and optional nuts makes a lovely addition to your dessert table.

Ingredients

Scale

Sugar Mixture:

2 2/3 cups granulated sugar
2/3 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup water

Egg White Mixture:

2 large egg whites (room temperature)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
pinch of salt
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Sugar Mixture: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a saucepan, cook sugar, corn syrup, and water to 260°F.
Whip Egg Whites: Beat egg whites and salt until stiff peaks form.
Combine Mixtures: Pour hot sugar mixture into whipped egg whites slowly while beating.
Finish the Candy: Beat until thick, glossy, then fold in vanilla and nuts. Drop spoonfuls onto the baking sheet and let set.