Grandma'S Divinity
Grandma's Divinity is a classic, fluffy, and sweet meringue candy with a hint of vanilla and crunchy pecans, perfect for holiday treats or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sugar, Karo syrup, and water to 260°F (hard ball stage).
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Pour the hot sugar syrup into the beaten egg whites in a slow, steady stream.
- Add vanilla extract and beat until the mixture loses its shine, about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Finish by hand, fold in chopped pecans, then drop spoonfuls onto waxed paper to cool.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure your sugar mixture reaches exactly 260°F for perfect texture; use a candy thermometer for accuracy. If you don’t have pecans, try substituting with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor. Beating the egg whites to stiff peaks is crucial, so take your time and check for peaks before combining with the syrup. For more sweet treats, check out Quick Desserts.
Serving Suggestions
Divinity can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside a cup of coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with a slice of Fresh Apple Pancake for a delightful brunch spread. Consider presenting them in decorative boxes for gifting during holidays or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover divinity in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Avoid refrigerating, as humidity can affect the texture. If they become too hard, you can gently warm them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Divinity contains roughly 57 calories, with 4g protein, 4g 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
Why did my divinity not set properly?
If your divinity is too soft, it may not have cooked to the proper temperature of 260°F. Ensure you use a candy thermometer for accuracy. Humidity can also affect the setting, so it's best to make divinity on a dry day.
Can I use egg substitutes in this recipe?
While traditional divinity relies on egg whites for structure, you can try using aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a substitute. Use 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for each egg white. However, results may vary, so it’s best to experiment.
What can I add to divinity for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of almond or coconut extract along with the vanilla. For a chocolate twist, fold in cocoa powder or mini chocolate chips after the mixture has cooled slightly. Experiment with your favorite flavors!
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).