Old Fashioned Divinity Candy Recipe

There is something truly magical about the Old Fashioned Divinity Candy Recipe. This classic Southern treat brings together the perfect balance of sweet, fluffy, and nutty flavors that delight every bite. If you’ve ever wondered how to craft a candy with a delightful, marshmallow-like texture and a crisp, sugary shell, this recipe is your golden ticket. Whether you’re making it as a holiday gift or a cozy kitchen project, this Old Fashioned Divinity Candy Recipe will quickly become one of your lifelong favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this Old Fashioned Divinity Candy Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are simple yet incredibly important. Each one plays a key role in creating that wonderfully fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth candy with a perfect crunch.

• 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar: The essential sweet base that gives divinity its characteristic sugary crunch.
• 1/2 cup water: Helps dissolve the sugar and creates the necessary syrup texture.
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup: Prevents crystallization, ensuring your candy stays smooth and creamy.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• 2 egg whites, room temperature: The heart of the fluff; when whipped, they create that airy texture divinity is famous for.
• 1 cup chopped pecans: Adds a lovely nutty crunch and authenticity to the candy.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a warm, inviting aroma and rounds out the flavor beautifully.

How to Make Old Fashioned Divinity Candy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

First things first, line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silpat mat. This ensures that your freshly dropped candy won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Setting up your workstation ahead of time is a small step that helps everything run smoothly once the candy mixture is ready.

Step 2: Cook the Sugar Syrup

In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, water, corn syrup, and salt. Stir it occasionally until the mixture just begins to boil. Here’s where the patience shines—clip on a candy thermometer and let the syrup cook without stirring until it reaches a craving-satisfying 260°F. This usually takes 8-10 minutes and is the trickiest part, so watch closely!

Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites

While the syrup cooks, whip those egg whites on high speed with a stand mixer equipped with a whisk attachment. Beat them until they form stiff peaks, which means they hold their shape firmly. Then swap for the paddle attachment—we’ll need this for the next step.

Step 4: Combine Syrup and Egg Whites

This is where the magic happens. Slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the egg whites in a thin, steady stream while mixing constantly at high speed. Take your time—this pouring should take about 2 minutes to ensure the sugar is perfectly incorporated without scrambling the eggs.

Step 5: Beat Until Perfect

Keep beating the mixture for another 5-8 minutes until the candy loses its glossy sheen and becomes stiffer. A good way to check readiness is by dropping a spoonful onto your parchment—if it forms a stable mound with swirly peaks rather than melting flat, you’re on the right track. If it still melts, keep going for a minute or two longer.

Step 6: Add Flavor and Nuts

Once your divinity mixture holds its shape, fold in the vanilla extract and the chopped pecans. These final touches elevate the flavor profile and add delightful texture to every bite.

Step 7: Shape Your Candy

Spray two spoons lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Use one spoon to pool tablespoon-sized scoops of the hot candy onto your prepared baking sheet, using the other spoon to scrape it off. Work relatively quickly while the mixture is still warm and pliable before it begins to stiffen.

Step 8: Let Candy Set

Allow your candies to cool and set completely at room temperature. Once set, they’re ready to enjoy or store for later.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Divinity Candy Recipe

Garnishes

While divinity candy is beautiful on its own, adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar can make each piece look extra special—perfect for gift-giving or holiday platters.

Side Dishes

This candy pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, balancing its sweetness. For festive occasions, consider serving alongside other classic holiday treats like fruitcakes or gingerbread.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these little gems in decorative paper cups or stack them in a clear glass jar tied with a ribbon for a charming homemade gift. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the divinity for a modern twist to the Old Fashioned Divinity Candy Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your divinity candy fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly stored, the candy maintains its airy texture and sweetness for up to 5 days—just enough time to enjoy or gift!

Freezing

While freezing divinity is possible, it’s best to enjoy this candy fresh. If you must freeze, place pieces in an airtight container separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking, and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Reheating is generally not recommended as divinity’s delicate texture can change. Instead, enjoy it as is right after setting or after careful storage.

FAQs

What is divinity candy?

Divinity candy is a classic Southern confection made from sugar, corn syrup, egg whites, and nuts, known for its fluffy, marshmallow-like texture and sweet, nutty flavor.

Why does my divinity candy turn out sticky or gooey?

This usually happens if the sugar syrup hasn’t reached the proper temperature or if the candy isn’t beaten long enough. Make sure to use a candy thermometer and beat the mixture until it holds its shape.

Can I use nuts other than pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even chopped peanuts can be delicious alternatives depending on your preference.

Is it necessary to use room temperature egg whites?

Yes, room temperature egg whites whip up more easily and achieve greater volume, which is crucial for the light texture of divinity candy.

How long does it take for divinity candy to set?

Divinity usually sets almost completely at room temperature within 30 minutes to an hour, depending on humidity.

Final Thoughts

Making the Old Fashioned Divinity Candy Recipe is a wonderfully rewarding experience that brings a bit of nostalgic sweetness into your home. It’s a treat that connects generations and offers a joyful way to celebrate simple ingredients crafted with care. Give it a try, and soon you’ll find this candy sitting proudly among your favorite homemade goodies, ready to charm friends and family alike.

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