Favorite Divinity
A classic, sweet divinity candy featuring fluffy egg whites and crunchy pecans, perfect for holiday treats or gift-giving for those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, water, and white syrup in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage.
- Pour half of the hot syrup over beaten egg whites and beat until well combined.
- Return remaining syrup to the heat and cook until it reaches the hard ball stage.
- Gradually add the hot syrup to the egg white mixture, then add vanilla extract.
- Beat the mixture until it begins to harden and lose gloss.
- Fold in chopped pecans, then drop by tablespoons onto wax paper to cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect consistency for your divinity, ensure the syrup reaches the soft ball stage before combining it with the egg whites. If you're short on pecans, walnuts can be a delicious alternative. For added flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of salt or using almond extract instead of vanilla. This treat can be quite sensitive to humidity, so avoid making it on rainy days for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Divinity makes a delightful treat that pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Big Nut Rolls or as part of a holiday dessert platter. You can also wrap them in decorative boxes for thoughtful gifts. They are a wonderful addition to any dessert table at gatherings or celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover divinity in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a particularly humid area, consider refrigerating them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving to maintain the best texture. Avoid stacking them directly on top of each other to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Divinity contains roughly 71 calories, with 5g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 0g 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
What can I do if my divinity doesn't set properly?
If your divinity hasn't set, it may be due to undercooking the syrup. Try cooking it a bit longer until it reaches the hard ball stage, then re-beat the mixture. If all else fails, you can use the mixture as a topping for ice cream or blend it into a frosting for cakes.
Can I make divinity ahead of time?
Yes, you can make divinity ahead of time. Just ensure it's stored properly in an airtight container. It's best enjoyed fresh, but if made in advance, it can still maintain its flavor and texture for several days when stored correctly.
Is there a way to make divinity without egg whites?
While traditional divinity relies on egg whites for its signature texture, you can experiment with aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, as a substitute. Whip it until stiff peaks form, then follow the recipe as usual. However, results may vary, so be prepared for some experimentation.
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).