Easy Homemade Divinity Candy
Easy Homemade Divinity Candy is a classic Southern confection known for its fluffy, marshmallow-like texture and sweet, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Made with simple pantry staples, this recipe guides you step-by-step to create a festive and customizable candy perfect for holiday gatherings, gifts, or anytime you crave a light and airy sweet treat.
- Author: Kaeli
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes plus several hours cooling
- Yield: About 24 pieces 1x
- Category: Candy
- Method: Cooking / No-Bake
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (a pinch)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1–2 teaspoons cocoa powder (for chocolate variation)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (for coconut variation)
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional flavor swap)
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (to taste for spiced variation)
- Food coloring (a few drops, optional)
- Prepare Your Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Measure all your ingredients and have them ready, as the recipe progresses quickly once the syrup heats.
- Make the Sugar Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Attach a candy thermometer and cook the syrup without stirring until it reaches 250°F (soft-ball stage).
- Whip the Egg Whites: While the syrup cooks, beat the room temperature egg whites and a pinch of salt on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This is essential for the candy’s fluffy, airy texture.
- Combine Syrup and Egg Whites: When the syrup reaches 250°F, remove it from heat. With the mixer running on low speed, slowly pour the hot syrup into the whipped egg whites in a thin, steady stream. Gradually increase mixer speed and beat until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
- Add Flavorings and Nuts: Blend in vanilla extract and gently fold in any optional ingredients like chopped nuts, coconut, cocoa powder, or spices, taking care not to deflate the fluffy mixture.
- Shape the Candy: Drop spoonfuls of divinity onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a little apart. Optionally, sprinkle additional chopped nuts or edible glitter on top. Let the candies cool and set at room temperature for several hours until firm.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure accurate syrup temperature for perfect texture.
- Egg whites should be at room temperature for easier whipping and maximum volume.
- Avoid making divinity on humid days to prevent sticky or gooey results.
- Pour the hot syrup slowly and steadily into the egg whites to keep the mixture stable and fluffy.
- Allow candies to fully cool and set before storing to maintain texture.
- Store divinity in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Do not freeze or refrigerate divinity as moisture can ruin its texture.
- Reheating divinity is not recommended to preserve its firmness and fluffiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: divinity candy, homemade candy, Southern candy, fluffy candy, holiday candy, easy candy recipe