This light-as-air, melt-in-your-mouth confection is a Southern holiday staple—sweet, fluffy, and studded with crunchy pecans. Perfect for gifting or festive gatherings!
Ingredients (Makes ~24 pieces)
- 2½ cups (500g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (120ml) light corn syrup
- ½ cup (120ml) water
- 2 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (60g) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
(Essential tools: Candy thermometer + stand mixer/hand mixer)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Sugar Syrup
- In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water.
- Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves, then stop stirring.
- Cook to 250°F (120°C) (hard ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
2. Whip the Egg Whites
- While syrup cooks, beat egg whites in a clean, grease-free bowl until stiff peaks form.
3. Combine & Beat
- Slowly pour hot syrup into egg whites with mixer on high speed.
- Add vanilla; keep beating 5-8 mins until mixture is matte and holds shape (like thick frosting).
4. Fold & Shape
- Gently fold in nuts (if using).
- Quickly drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper (work fast—it sets quickly!).
5. Set & Store
- Let cool 1 hour until firm.
- Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers.
FAQs & Tips
Q: Why did my divinity turn sticky/grainy?
⚠️ Humidity is the enemy! Make on dry days (<50% humidity).
⚠️ Undercooked syrup or overbeating can also cause issues.
Q: Can I use honey instead of corn syrup?
✅ Yes, but reduce to ⅓ cup (honey is sweeter).
Q: How to fix divinity that won’t set?
➡️ Return to mixer; beat another 2-3 mins. If still soft, use as icing for cookies.
Q: Can I add food coloring?
✅ Yes! Add a few drops when mixing in vanilla.
Q: How long does it keep?
- Room temp: 2 weeks (in airtight container).
- Freezer: 1 month (thaw at room temp).
Serving Suggestions
🎄 Perfect for:
- Holiday cookie boxes
- Gift bags tied with ribbon
- Afternoon tea pairings
Nutrition (per piece): ~90 kcal
This old-fashioned candy is fussy but worth it—like sweet clouds with a nutty crunch! 🌟
Pro Tip: For perfect peaks, use a piping bag to shape! 🎀
