Description
This Homemade Divinity Candy recipe produces light, fluffy, and sweet treats with a delicate vanilla flavor and an optional nutty crunch from pecans. Perfect as a classic holiday candy or a special homemade gift, these candies have a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a beautiful glossy finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Divinity Candy Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Sugar Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, and continue cooking until the temperature reaches 250°F, the hard ball stage, on a candy thermometer. Avoid stirring the syrup during boiling to prevent crystallization.
- Beat Egg Whites: While the syrup is heating, place the egg whites in a large bowl. Using an electric mixer on high speed, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, which means they stand straight up when the beaters are lifted.
- Combine Syrup with Egg Whites: When the sugar syrup reaches 250°F, remove the saucepan from heat. Slowly pour the hot syrup in a thin, steady stream into the beaten egg whites, continuing to beat on high speed. This gradual process helps incorporate the syrup without cooking the eggs prematurely.
- Add Flavor and Beat to Thickness: Stir in the vanilla extract immediately after pouring in the syrup. Continue beating the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes thick, holds its shape firmly, and loses its glossy appearance. At this stage, if using, gently fold in the chopped pecans to distribute evenly.
- Form the Candies: Drop spoonfuls of the divinity mixture onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper. The spoonfuls should keep their shape and not flatten out too much. Allow the candies to set at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours until they are firm and dry to the touch.
- Storage: Once set, store the divinity candies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep fresh and maintain texture for up to one week.
Notes
- Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when beaten.
- Use a reliable candy thermometer to reach the precise hard ball stage.
- Do not stir the sugar syrup while boiling to avoid crystallization and graininess.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans entirely or substitute with other nuts if desired.
- Store candies in a cool, dry place to maintain texture and prevent stickiness.
