Description

This Easy Divinity Candy recipe is a classic Southern treat known for its light, airy texture and sweet, nutty flavor. Made with simple ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, egg whites, and vanilla, it’s a delightful homemade confection that sets up stiff and fluffy thanks to careful cooking and whipping. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, this divinity candy combines the smooth sweetness of sugar syrup with the richness of nuts for an irresistible sweet bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Divinity Candy Ingredients

2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup water
2 egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the sugar syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely, ensuring a smooth syrup base.
Cook syrup to soft-ball stage: Stop stirring and allow the syrup to cook undisturbed until it reaches 260°F (125°C) on a candy thermometer. This precise temperature is key to achieving the ideal texture for the candy.
Beat egg whites: While the syrup is cooking, place the egg whites in a clean bowl and beat them using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. This will give the divinity its fluffy, light texture.
Combine syrup and egg whites: Carefully and slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the beaten egg whites while continuously beating to incorporate the syrup without cooking the eggs too fast.
Add vanilla and beat to set: Stir in the vanilla extract and continue beating the mixture until it holds its shape firmly, indicating it has cooled enough and aerated properly.
Fold in nuts: If desired, gently fold in the chopped nuts to add flavor and texture to the candy.
Shape and cool candies: Drop spoonfuls of the divinity mixture onto waxed paper and allow to cool completely until set and firm to the touch before serving.

Notes

Make sure the candy thermometer is accurate for proper temperature readings.
Use room temperature egg whites for better volume when beating.
Do not stir the syrup once it starts boiling to avoid crystallization.
Chilled wax paper helps the candy cool faster and prevents sticking.
Store divinity candy in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Optional nuts can be pecans, walnuts, or almonds based on preference.