Sugarplum Divinity
Sweet, glossy sugarplum divinity combines sugary flavor with colorful candies, offering a festive treat perfect for holiday celebrations and those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a saucepan and stir over low heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Cook until a candy thermometer registers 260°F or until it reaches the very hard ball stage.
- Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Beat egg whites until stiff.
- Pour the hot mixture very slowly over the egg whites, beating constantly.
- Continue beating until the mixture becomes very stiff and loses its glossy appearance.
- Beat a few strokes by hand to improve texture.
- Add vanilla and drop by large spoonfuls onto waxed paper.
- Decorate with slivers of gum drops or chopped pecans by pressing cut edges to the candy.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect consistency, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating them to stiff peaks. If you want to add a twist, consider using chopped pecans instead of gumdrops for a nutty flavor. Be patient while pouring the hot syrup; doing it too quickly can deflate the egg whites. For a delightful variation, try adding orange or lemon zest to the mixture for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful treats pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them on a decorative plate during holiday gatherings. Consider presenting them alongside other sweet treats such as New Orleans Bread Pudding With Sauce or Jimmy Carter's Peanut Clusters for a delightful dessert spread sure to impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Sugarplum Divinity in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, as it can cause the candy to become sticky. If properly stored, it can last for about a week. To refresh its texture, place the pieces in a dry, warm area for a short while before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sugarplum Divinity contains roughly 149 calories, with 8g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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
What can I use instead of corn syrup?
If you don't have corn syrup on hand, you can substitute it with equal parts honey or maple syrup. Both will add a unique flavor to the divinity while maintaining the necessary sweetness. Just be mindful that this may slightly alter the final texture.
Can I make Sugarplum Divinity ahead of time?
Yes, Sugarplum Divinity can be made a few days in advance. Just ensure it is stored properly in an airtight container to maintain its texture. This makes it a great option for holiday parties or special occasions, allowing you to prepare ahead and enjoy more time with your guests.
Why is my divinity not setting properly?
If your divinity isn't setting, it could be due to not cooking the sugar mixture to the correct temperature. Always use a candy thermometer to ensure it reaches 260°F. Additionally, ensure your egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks before incorporating the hot syrup, as this is crucial for the candy to hold its shape.
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).