Divinity Or Seafoam
Divinity or seafoam is a classic, fluffy confection with sweet vanilla flavor and nutty crunch, perfect for holiday treats or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil sugar and Karo syrup to hard ball stage.
- Beat egg whites and salt until stands in peaks.
- Pour hot syrup into egg whites while still beating slowly.
- Add vanilla and beat until mixture is dull and loses glossy look.
- Stir in nuts.
- Spoon onto waxed paper and let cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating, as this helps achieve maximum volume. If you want to experiment, consider using flavored extracts like almond or maple instead of vanilla. You can also substitute the nuts with dried fruits for a different texture and flavor. Monitor the sugar syrup closely to reach the hard ball stage accurately, as this is crucial for the right consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Divinity makes a delightful treat on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon snack. Consider serving it alongside other confections like fudge or chocolate-covered pretzels for a dessert platter. For a festive touch, use colored nuts or sprinkle edible glitter on top before it sets.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover divinity in an airtight container at room temperature, away from humidity, to maintain its texture. If it becomes too sticky, you can lightly dust the pieces with powdered sugar. Avoid refrigeration, as it may alter the texture, making it chewy rather than light and airy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Divinity Or Seafoam contains roughly 48 calories, with 2g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 make divinity without nuts?
Yes, you can easily omit the nuts if you prefer a nut-free version. The recipe will still yield a deliciously airy candy. Alternatively, you can replace the nuts with mini chocolate chips or dried fruits for added flavor and texture.
How do I know when the sugar syrup is at hard ball stage?
To determine if the sugar syrup has reached the hard ball stage, you can use a candy thermometer, which should read 250°F (121°C). Alternatively, drop a small amount of syrup into cold water; if it forms a firm ball that holds its shape, it's ready to be poured into the egg whites.
What if my divinity doesn't set properly?
If your divinity doesn't set, it may be due to undercooking the syrup or not beating the egg whites enough. If this happens, you can try reheating the mixture gently and re-beating it. If it remains too soft, consider using it as a topping for ice cream or incorporating it into a dessert like the Famous Tar Heel Hush Puppies.
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).