A Treat for Mom- Divinity

Divinity somehow seems like a special occasion candy.  We see it in resort candy stores, at holidays but most people don't think about making it.

I had always heard that it was hard to make and "touchy."  After researching hints to make this light and fluffy candy, I decided to give it a try.

This recipe is easy, but it does take some time.  The secret to success?  Don't make it on a humid or rainy day.  It won't set up.  AND use a candy thermometer.


You can drop it by the spoonful or you can pour it onto waxed paper and cut it like fudge.

I like to put it in paper candy cups.  If it is a gift, put it in a pretty candy dish, a candy box (from craft stores) or in a shallow basket, wrapped with cellophane and tied with a pretty bow.  The lovely plate in my picture is Haviland Limoges from an antique mall.  I paid $2.00 for it and it is over a hundred years old!  It makes a pretty presentation.

Divinity:

4 cups of sugar
1 cup of white corn syrup
3/4 cups of cold water

3 egg whites
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups of chopped pecans

Stir sugar, corn syrup and water together in a heavy saucepan over medium heat.  Stir only until the sugar has dissolved.  Cook syrup until it reaches 250 degrees F on a candy thermometer.  (Hard ball stage.)

While the syrup cooks, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.  When the syrup reaches 250 degrees, carefully pour a slow and steady stream of the syrup into the egg whites, beating at high speed.  Add the vanilla and continue beating until the mixture holds its shape. Add pecans.  

It takes 5 -15 minutes to thicken.  It will start to lose its shine.  If it is not thick enough, it won't hold its shape when you drop it from the spoon.  You can test it if you aren't sure by dropping one spoonful onto waxed paper.  If it sets up too quickly, just pour it all onto waxed paper and cut when it cools.  Let cool completely.

Variations:  add peppermint extract, mini-chocolate chips and/or tint with food coloring.

Place in candy papers and store in an airtight container up to 2 weeks.  (If you can make it last that long!)

THIS YUMMY CANDY IS FAT FREE!