Little Grandma'S Divinity
Little Grandma's Divinity is a classic, airy candy with a delicate sweetness and nutty crunch. Its fluffy texture and rich vanilla flavor make it a delightful treat perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, appealing to those who love nostalgic confections with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1 quart heavy saucepan, combine sugar and corn syrup with 1/2 cup water, and cook over low heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved.
- Cover the saucepan and cook for 1 minute or until sugar crystallizes on the side of the pan melts.
- Uncover and bring to a boil without stirring. Cook to 238°F on a candy thermometer or until a small amount in cold water forms a soft ball.
- Meanwhile, in a large bowl, beat the egg whites with salt using an electric mixer at high speed until stiff peaks form when beaters are slowly raised.
- In a thin stream, pour half of the hot syrup over the egg whites, beating constantly at high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Continue cooking the rest of the syrup to 256°F on a candy thermometer (bringing it to 260°F won't hurt), or until a small amount in cold water forms a hard ball.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before whipping, as this helps them reach maximum volume. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or substitute with dried fruit for added texture. Keep an eye on the syrup's temperature—it can go from perfect to overcooked quickly. If you don't have a candy thermometer, use the cold water test to gauge the consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Divinity makes a lovely gift during the holidays and is perfect for dessert tables. Serve it alongside other treats like My Mother'S Applesauce Spice Cake for a delightful variety. Consider pairing it with a light dessert wine or hot cocoa. For a fun twist, use colored nuts or drizzle with chocolate before serving to impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover divinity in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Avoid refrigerating, as it can cause the candy to become sticky. If the candy hardens, allow it to sit at room temperature for a short period before serving. For a delightful treat, serve with a cup of coffee or tea to enhance the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Little Grandma'S Divinity contains roughly 89 calories, with 0g protein, 21g 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
Can I use a stand mixer instead of a hand mixer for the egg whites?
Absolutely! A stand mixer is a great option and can save time. Just ensure you use a clean bowl and beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This will help achieve the desired texture for your divinity.
What if my divinity doesn’t set properly?
If your divinity doesn’t set, it might be due to undercooked syrup. Heat it back to the appropriate temperature and rewhip the mixture. If it still doesn’t set, consider using it as a topping for ice cream or blending it into a milkshake for a delicious treat.
Can I make divinity without corn syrup?
Yes, you can substitute corn syrup with a mix of granulated sugar and water in equal parts. Keep in mind that corn syrup helps prevent crystallization, so you may need to be more careful while cooking the sugar mixture to achieve the right texture.
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).