Mammaw'S Divinity
A classic Southern candy with a fluffy, chewy texture, sweet vanilla flavor, and crunchy nuts, perfect for sharing at gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, water, and Karo thoroughly in a saucepan.
- Boil the mixture until it forms a hard ball stage, about 15 minutes.
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Slowly pour the hot syrup over the beaten egg whites, beating constantly.
- Add vanilla extract.
- Beat with a wooden spoon until the mixture is very cool and thick.
- Stir in chopped nuts.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto buttered waxed paper to cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating them to achieve maximum volume. If you prefer a different flavor, try substituting almond extract for the vanilla. This recipe can also be adapted by using different nuts like pecans or walnuts if you want a variation. Be patient while pouring the syrup; doing it too quickly can deflate the egg whites.
Serving Suggestions
Divinity is best served as a sweet treat on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. Consider serving it alongside other holiday confections or as part of a dessert platter that includes American recipes. It also makes a delightful gift when packaged in a decorative box.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover divinity in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Avoid refrigeration, as it can cause the candy to become sticky. If you need to reheat the divinity, place it in a warm oven for a few minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to handle and enjoy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mammaw'S Divinity contains roughly 657 calories, with 20g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), protein (41% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 didn't set, it could be due to not reaching the hard ball stage of the syrup, which is crucial for proper texture. Ensure your thermometer is accurate, and consider boiling the syrup a bit longer next time. Humidity can also affect the setting, so try making it on a drier day.
Can I make divinity without nuts?
Yes, you can definitely make divinity without nuts if you prefer a nut-free version. Simply omit the chopped nuts from the recipe, and you can add other mix-ins like mini chocolate chips or dried fruit for added flavor and texture.
How can I prevent my divinity from being too sticky?
To prevent stickiness, make sure your divinity is cooled completely before storing. Additionally, ensure that your mixing bowl and utensils are clean and dry, as any moisture can cause the candy to become sticky. A light dusting of powdered sugar on the waxed paper can also help reduce stickiness.
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).