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Old Fashioned Divinity Candy Recipe

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  • Author: Ivy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 45 servings
  • Category: Candy
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Old Fashioned Divinity Candy is a classic, airy, and sweet treat made from whipped egg whites and a hot sugar syrup, combined with crunchy pecans. This recipe results in a light, fluffy candy with a delicate vanilla flavor, perfect for festive occasions or as a nostalgic homemade confection.


Ingredients

Divinity Candy Ingredients

  • 2½ Cups granulated sugar
  • ½ Cup water
  • ½ Cup light corn syrup
  • 2 Teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/8 Teaspoon salt
  • 2 egg whites (at room temperature)
  • 1⅓ Cups pecans (chopped)
  • Nonstick cooking spray (for greasing)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
  2. Make the sugar syrup: In a large saucepan over medium to medium-high heat, combine granulated sugar, water, light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir frequently until the mixture begins to boil.
  3. Boil the syrup: Allow the syrup to boil without stirring until it reaches 260°F (hard ball stage), which should take about 6 to 8 minutes.
  4. Beat the egg whites: While the syrup boils, use a stand mixer with a whisk attachment to beat the 2 room-temperature egg whites on high speed until they form stiff peaks. Once stiff peaks form, stop beating but keep the mixer ready.
  5. Combine syrup and egg whites: When the syrup reaches 260°F, turn the mixer back on at high speed. Slowly and carefully stream the hot syrup into the whipped egg whites over several minutes.
  6. Beat until creamy: Continue beating until the mixture becomes dull white, holds its shape, and is thick enough to scoop.
  7. Add pecans: Mix in most of the chopped pecans, saving about ¼ cup to sprinkle on top later.
  8. Scoop the candy: Quickly use a lightly greased cookie scoop or spoon to drop dollops of the divinity onto the prepared baking sheet.
  9. Top with pecans: Garnish each dollop with a few of the remaining pecan pieces.
  10. Set the candy: Place the baking sheet in a cool, dry, non-humid area and let the candy set for 1 to 2 hours until firm.
  11. Store: Store divinity candy in an airtight container for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when whipped.
  • Use a candy thermometer to accurately reach the correct syrup temperature (260°F).
  • Work quickly when scooping as the mixture sets fast once cooler.
  • Keep the candy in a dry environment to avoid it becoming sticky or dissolving.
  • Substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds if desired.