Indulge in the nostalgic sweetness of homemade divinity, a classic Southern candy thatβs as light and airy as a cloud. This melt-in-your-mouth treat combines simple pantry staples like granulated sugar, egg whites, and light corn syrup to create a pillowy confection with a glossy finish. A touch of vanilla extract elevates its delicate flavor, while chopped pecans add a delightful crunch to every bite. Perfect for festive occasions or as a special gift, this recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare and delivers 24 elegant pieces of candy. Mastering the candy thermometer is key to achieving the perfect consistency, but the result is a stunning, timeless dessert that will be the star of your holiday table. Whether youβre a candy-making novice or an experienced pro, divinity is a must-try for lovers of old-fashioned sweets.
Prepare a clean, dry baking sheet by covering it with parchment or wax paper. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, water, and salt. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved fully.
Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan and cook the mixture without further stirring until it reaches 260Β°F (hard ball stage). This should take approximately 8β10 minutes.
While the sugar syrup is cooking, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to whip the egg whites in a large, clean mixing bowl. Beat on high speed until stiff peaks form. Set the whipped egg whites aside temporarily.
Once the sugar syrup reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the heat immediately. Restart the mixer at medium speed and carefully pour the hot syrup in a thin, steady stream into the whipped egg whites. Be cautious to avoid spilling or splattering.
Increase the speed of the mixer to high and continue beating the mixture until it becomes thick and glossy. This may take 5β7 minutes. Add the vanilla extract during the last 30 seconds of mixing.
Fold in the chopped pecans gently using a spatula.
Using two spoons, drop heaping spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Work quickly, as the candy will firm up as it cools.
Let the divinity cool completely at room temperature for 1β2 hours before serving or storing.
Store divinity candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy!
Calories |
2604 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 72.0 g | 92% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.2 g | 31% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 21.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 425 mg | 18% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 504.8 g | 184% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.6 g | 34% | |
| Total Sugars | 493.8 g | ||
| Protein | 16.2 g | 32% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 82 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 2.6 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 527 mg | 11% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.