Christmas Divinity
Rich and creamy Christmas Divinity with a hint of cocoa, topped with nuts and cherries, perfect for festive occasions and sweet tooth indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In the top of a double boiler over hot water, melt shortening; add cocoa and stir until smooth.
- Set aside over warm water.
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water; cook over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Lower heat slightly and cook uncovered, without stirring, to 260° (hard-ball stage).
- Remove from heat.
- Immediately, pour syrup in a thin stream into egg whites, beating on high speed of an electric mixer.
- Add vanilla; beat until candy begins to hold its shape.
- Quickly blend in cocoa mixture, nuts, and cherries.
- Drop by teaspoons onto wax paper.
Tips & Substitutions
Make sure to beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks for the best texture. If you don’t have pecans or pistachios, walnuts or almonds can be used as substitutes. For a festive twist, consider using chopped dried cranberries instead of cherries. Keep an eye on the sugar mixture to avoid burning as it reaches the hard-ball stage.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful treats during holiday gatherings or as a sweet addition to gift baskets. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. For a fun twist, consider serving them alongside slices of Easy Dill Onion Bread for a sweet and savory experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover divinity in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating them to maintain their texture. Avoid stacking them too closely to prevent sticking. These treats do not need reheating and are best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Divinity contains roughly 141 calories, with 2g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use liquid egg whites instead of fresh egg whites?
Yes, liquid egg whites can be used as a substitute, but you may want to use a little more than the equivalent of two egg whites to achieve the same volume. Just ensure they are pasteurized for safety.
Why did my divinity not set properly?
If your divinity didn't set, it might not have reached the correct temperature during cooking. Ensure that your sugar mixture reaches 260°F, the hard-ball stage, as this is crucial for the candy to hold its shape when cooled.
Can I add other flavors to my divinity?
Absolutely! Besides vanilla, you can experiment with almond extract, peppermint extract, or even citrus zest for a unique twist. Just be mindful of the quantity, as some flavors can be quite strong.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).