Old Fashioned Divinity

5 from 2 votes

Discover the timeless sweetness of Old Fashioned Divinity - a classic treat perfected over generations. Irresistible nostalgia in every bite.

Prep Time10

Cook Time30

Additional Time2

Total Time2 40

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Servings: candies

Author: Jamie Sherman

Equipment

Ingredients

2 cups granulated sugar
½ cup light corn syrup
½ cup water
2 large egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
pecan halves

Instructions

In a heavy bottom 2 quart saucepan, mix together the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Heat the mixture over low heat until the sugar has dissolved. Stirring continuously.
When the sugar has dissolved, attach the candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan. Increase the heat to medium-high and continue to cook until the temperature reaches 250℉, do not stir the mixture.
While the sugar mixture is heating, add the two egg whites to the electric mixer bowl and whisk on high until stiff peaks form.
When the temperature reaches 250℉, remove from the heat and slowly pour the sugar mixture into the egg whites in a steady stream with the mixer on low speed. Stir in the vanilla.
Increase the mixer speed to high and continue mixing until the batter has lost its glossiness and holds its shape, about 8-10 minutes. If the mixture is too runny, mix on high speed for another 5 minutes.
Prepare a large baking sheet with waxed paper or parchment paper sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.
Spray 2 spoons with non-stick cooking spray. Working quickly, drop a spoonful of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet. Push a pecan half into the candy. Repeat until all the batter has been used.
Let the divinity candies set for 2 hours and to room temperature before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Please note that this recipe goes very quickly - have everything out and ready to go before starting.
The pecans can be finely chopped and mixed into the candies.
Alternatively, you can use walnuts or even chocolate chips instead of pecans.
Store the candies at room temperature in an airtight container with layers of waxed or parchment paper for up to 1 week, or freeze them for up to 2 months.
Making divinity candy on a humid day can be challenging because humidity can affect the candy's texture. It's best to choose a dry day for candy making to achieve the desired consistency.
While a candy thermometer is highly recommended for precise temperature control, you can try the cold-water test. Drop a small amount of the candy mixture into cold water, and it should form a soft ball when ready. However, using a thermometer is more accurate.
Achieving the perfect divinity candy texture requires precise temperature control and beating the mixture until it loses its glossiness.
If your divinity candy doesn't turn out as expected, common issues can include grainy texture, excessive stickiness, or a lack of fluffiness. These issues may be due to factors such as humidity, temperature control, or overmixing.
You can add food coloring to the candy mixture before shaping it. Add a few drops of food coloring to achieve the desired hue. Remember that a little goes a long way, so start with a small amount.
You can adjust the size of your divinity candies by using smaller or larger spoonfuls when shaping them. Keep in mind that smaller candies may set more quickly, so work even faster if making them smaller.
Besides traditional packaging, you can present divinity candy in decorative tins, jars, or gift bags. Consider adding personalized labels or tags to make your homemade candies even more special when gifting them.

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