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Old-Fashioned Divinity Candy Recipe

4.9 from 583 reviews

This classic Old-Fashioned Divinity Candy recipe features a fluffy, sweet, and nutty treat made with whipped egg whites, sugar syrup, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for holiday gift-giving or a nostalgic homemade candy experience, this divinity is light, airy, and full of rich vanilla flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup water
  • ½ cup light corn syrup (prevents crystallization)
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • 3 egg whites (no yolk; whites must whip to stiff peaks)
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (or use walnuts, almonds, or maraschino cherries)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (vanilla bean paste works too)

Instructions

  1. Prep: Line two sheet pans with parchment paper and measure out all ingredients to ensure smooth preparation.
  2. Cook: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat without stirring. Attach a candy thermometer and cook until the syrup reaches 260°F (hard ball stage).
  3. Beat egg whites: When the syrup reaches about 240°F, start whipping the egg whites on high speed in a stand mixer until they form stiff peaks.
  4. Combine and beat: With the mixer running on low, gradually pour the hot syrup into the whipped egg whites. After adding all the syrup, increase to medium-high speed and beat for 5–6 minutes until the mixture becomes fluffy and has a slightly dull appearance.
  5. Add pecans: Stir in the chopped pecans and vanilla extract just until combined to evenly distribute the nuts and flavor.
  6. Shape: Quickly scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared pans using sprayed spoons, working swiftly as the candy sets fast.
  7. Cool: Allow the divinity candy to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until firm to the touch.

Notes

  • Ensure egg whites are free of any yolk or grease for proper whipping.
  • Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control to achieve the correct candy consistency.
  • Work quickly when spooning the candy onto pans because it hardens rapidly.
  • Substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or maraschino cherries for different flavor variations.
  • Store divinity candy in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Keywords: Old-Fashioned Divinity Candy, homemade candy, nutty divinity, holiday candy, classic divinity recipe, whipped egg white candy