Peanut Butter Divinity
Peanut Butter Divinity is a rich, creamy confection combining sweet sugar, chewy texture, and nutty peanut butter, perfect for those craving a classic, nostalgic treat or special occasion sweet.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart saucepan, combine sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Bring to a boil.
- Cook to hard ball stage (260°F), stirring only until the sugar dissolves.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites to stiff peaks.
- Gradually pour the hot syrup over the egg whites, beating at high speed with an electric mixer.
- Add the chunky peanut butter and beat until the candy holds its shape, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Test the candy by spooning a small amount onto waxed paper; it should mound rather than flatten out.
- Quickly drop spoonfuls from a teaspoon onto waxed paper to form individual candies.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your mixing bowl is completely grease-free to help the egg whites whip to stiff peaks. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can substitute creamy peanut butter for the chunky variety. Be mindful of the temperature when pouring the hot syrup over the egg whites, as it needs to be done gradually to avoid cooking the eggs. This recipe can be part of your holiday dessert table alongside other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful candies can be served as a sweet treat after dinner or as a fun addition to a dessert platter. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, making them perfect for a cozy gathering. For an extra festive touch, consider arranging them alongside a slice of Cream Cheese Pecan Pie(Chess Pie) for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Peanut Butter Divinity in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Avoid refrigerating, as this can alter the texture and make them sticky. If they harden over time, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Divinity contains roughly 76 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 2g 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 sugar substitute in this recipe?
While it is possible to use sugar substitutes, they may not provide the same texture or sweetness as granulated sugar. If you do opt for a substitute, ensure it's one that can caramelize properly to achieve the desired consistency in the divinity.
What should I do if my divinity is too soft?
If your divinity turns out too soft and doesn't hold its shape, it may not have reached the hard ball stage. You can reheat the mixture gently to the correct temperature and rebeat it to achieve the right consistency. Alternatively, try chilling it to firm up before serving.
Is it necessary to use an electric mixer?
Using an electric mixer is highly recommended for this recipe as it ensures that the egg whites reach stiff peaks quickly and efficiently. Hand whisking can be labor-intensive and may not achieve the same volume, affecting the final texture of the divinity.
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).