Easy Divinity Candy

Easy Divinity Candy is a classic, fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth Southern treat that’s especially popular around the holidays. With its light, nougat-like texture and sweet vanilla flavor, this candy is as nostalgic as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this candy turns simple pantry staples into something truly magical. It’s a great recipe when I want to make a homemade sweet gift or just enjoy a bite-sized piece of tradition. The texture is soft yet firm, airy yet rich—and once I get the hang of it, it’s surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Granulated sugar

• Light corn syrup

• Water

• Egg whites

• Vanilla extract

• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. I start by combining the sugar, corn syrup, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. I stir until the sugar dissolves.

2. I let the mixture boil without stirring until it reaches 250°F (hard-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.

3. While that cooks, I beat the egg whites in a clean bowl until stiff peaks form.

4. Once the syrup is ready, I slowly pour it into the egg whites while beating constantly. I keep mixing until the mixture loses its gloss and starts to hold shape—this takes several minutes.

5. I stir in the vanilla and nuts if I’m using them.

6. I quickly drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto wax paper or parchment and let them set until firm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 30 pieces, depending on size. It takes around 15 minutes to prep and another 30 minutes for mixing and shaping. Allow 1 hour for the candy to set completely.

Variations

Sometimes I add a few drops of almond extract or peppermint extract for a flavor twist. I’ve also tried food coloring to match the season—red or green for Christmas, pastel for spring. If I want a nut-free version, I just leave them out entirely.

Storage/Reheating

I store divinity in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. I don’t refrigerate it, as moisture can make it sticky. There’s no reheating needed—just enjoy it as is.

FAQs

Why did my divinity candy not set?

Humidity is often the culprit. I make sure to prepare divinity on a dry day, and I beat the mixture long enough for it to lose its shine and thicken properly.

Can I make divinity without a candy thermometer?

It’s tricky but possible. I look for the syrup to form a firm ball when dropped into cold water—this indicates it’s at the hard-ball stage.

Can I freeze divinity candy?

I don’t recommend it. Freezing changes the texture and often leads to sticky, weepy candy once thawed.

What kind of nuts work best?

I usually use chopped pecans or walnuts, but I’ve also tried almonds. I toast them lightly for extra flavor.

Is this recipe safe for kids to help with?

I let kids help with dropping spoonfuls onto paper, but I handle the hot syrup myself. It’s very hot and can burn easily, so safety comes first.

Conclusion

Easy Divinity Candy is a timeless treat that brings a touch of old-fashioned charm to any occasion. Once I got the feel for it, I found it fun to make and even more fun to share. Whether for holiday trays, gifts, or a sweet snack, this light and fluffy candy never goes out of style.

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