Short Description
Divinity candy is a classic Southern confection known for its light, airy texture and sweet, nougat-like flavor. Made primarily from sugar, corn syrup, and whipped egg whites, this treat is often enhanced with vanilla and nuts, making it a delightful addition to holiday dessert tables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple Ingredients: Requires only a handful of pantry staples.

Festive Appearance: Its snowy white color makes it perfect for holiday celebrations.

Customizable: Easily adapt with different nuts or flavorings.

Great for Gifting: A homemade treat that’s sure to impress.

Timeless Tradition: A nostalgic candy that evokes memories of family gatherings.

Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 ½ cups granulated sugar

½ cup light corn syrup

½ cup water

2 large egg whites, room temperature

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional: 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Food coloring (optional)

Directions
Prepare Your Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment or waxed paper. Lightly grease two spoons for scooping the candy. Ensure all ingredients are measured and ready, as timing is crucial.

Make the Syrup: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Once it starts boiling, stop stirring and attach a candy thermometer. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches 250°F (hard ball stage).

Beat the Egg Whites: While the syrup is cooking, beat the egg whites in a clean, dry bowl with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.

Combine Syrup and Egg Whites: Once the syrup reaches 250°F, remove it from heat. Slowly pour the hot syrup in a thin stream into the beaten egg whites while continuing to beat at medium-high speed. Be careful not to pour too quickly to avoid scrambling the eggs. Add vanilla extract (and food coloring if using) while continuing to beat.

Mix Until Fluffy: Beat the mixture until it becomes thick, loses its gloss, and holds its shape. This may take 4-6 minutes. Stir in nuts if desired.

Shape the Candy: Quickly drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet before it hardens. Use the greased spoons to help shape each piece.

Cool Completely: Let the candies cool completely at room temperature until they are firm to the touch.

Servings and Timing
Servings: Approximately 36 pieces

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including cooling time)

Variations
Flavor Twists: Substitute vanilla extract with almond, peppermint, or maple extract for a different flavor profile.

Colorful Touch: Add a few drops of food coloring to match holiday themes or personal preferences.

Nut-Free Option: Omit nuts for those with allergies or preferences.

Fruit Additions: Incorporate chopped dried fruits like cherries or cranberries for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store divinity candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Place waxed paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing: Freeze in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating: Not recommended, as reheating can alter the texture of the candy.

FAQs
What is the best time to make divinity candy?
Divinity candy is best made on dry, low-humidity days. High humidity can prevent the candy from setting properly.

Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?
Yes, but be cautious. The mixture becomes very thick, and prolonged mixing can strain or damage less powerful mixers.

How do I know when the candy is ready to be shaped?
The mixture should lose its gloss and hold its shape when dropped from a spoon. If it spreads out, continue beating until it thickens.

Can I add other ingredients to the candy?
Absolutely. Feel free to add chopped dried fruits, different nuts, or flavored extracts to customize your divinity candy.

Why did my divinity candy turn out sticky?
Sticky candy can result from undercooking the syrup or high humidity. Ensure the syrup reaches the correct temperature and choose a dry day for preparation.

Is it necessary to use a candy thermometer?
While not mandatory, a candy thermometer ensures accuracy in reaching the hard ball stage, which is crucial for the candy’s texture.

Can I make divinity candy without nuts?
Yes, omitting nuts will not affect the candy’s structure. It’s a suitable option for those with nut allergies or preferences.

How long does it take for the candy to set?
Typically, divinity candy sets within 1-2 hours at room temperature. However, setting time can vary based on humidity and room temperature.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but be prepared for a longer mixing time, and ensure your mixer can handle the increased volume.

What causes divinity candy to become grainy?
Graininess can occur if the sugar crystallizes. To prevent this, avoid stirring the syrup once it starts boiling and ensure all sugar is dissolved before boiling.

Conclusion
Divinity candy is a delightful, airy confection that brings a touch of nostalgia and sweetness to any occasion. With its simple ingredients and customizable nature, it’s a perfect treat for holidays, gifts, or simply indulging in a homemade candy experience. By following the steps carefully and paying attention to conditions like humidity and syrup temperature, you can create a batch of this classic candy that truly lives up to its name.

Easy Divinity Candy Recipe

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Author: Olivia
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: About 24 candies
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Easy Divinity Candy Recipe delivers a classic Southern treat that’s light, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Made with simple ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and egg whites, it’s perfect for holiday gifting or a nostalgic sweet snack.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup water
2 large egg whites, room temperature
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Optional: 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Optional: Food coloring

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Instructions

Prepare Your Workspace:
Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. Lightly grease two spoons for shaping. Measure all ingredients in advance.
Make the Syrup:
Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a heavy saucepan. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
Stop stirring once it boils. Heat to 250°F using a candy thermometer.
Beat the Egg Whites:
While syrup cooks, beat egg whites on high speed in a clean, dry bowl until stiff peaks form.
Combine Syrup and Egg Whites:
Slowly pour hot syrup in a thin stream into the egg whites while beating on medium-high speed.
Add vanilla (and food coloring if using).
Mix Until Fluffy:
Beat until mixture is thick, no longer glossy, and holds shape—about 4–6 minutes. Stir in nuts if using.
Shape the Candy:
Quickly drop spoonfuls onto the prepared sheet using greased spoons. Shape and let cool completely.