Old Fashioned Divinity Candy is a delightful holiday treat that brings joy and nostalgia to any festive gathering. This classic confection is characterized by its light and airy texture, which melts in your mouth, making it a perfect sweet indulgence. Made from a simple sugar syrup combined with whipped egg whites and a hint of flavor, this homemade divinity candy recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also makes for a thoughtful gift during the holiday season. Whether you’re looking to impress at a party or simply enjoy a nostalgic treat, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Divinity Candy

There are countless reasons why this classic divinity candy should be on your holiday table. Here are just a few:

It’s a nostalgic treat that evokes fond memories of family gatherings.
The light, airy texture is unlike any other candy.
It’s versatile; you can customize it with various flavors and nuts.
Perfect for gifting during the holidays.
Easy to make with simple ingredients.
It’s a great conversation starter at parties.
This traditional divinity confection is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Divinity Candy

Gather these items:

2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup water
2 large egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or peppermint extract for a festive twist)
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Pinch of salt

How to Make Old Fashioned Divinity Candy Step-by-Step

Step 1: Ensure you have a candy thermometer and a lined baking sheet for setting the candy.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir occasionally until sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil and clip the candy thermometer to the side of the pan. Boil until the syrup reaches 250°F (hard ball stage).
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until stiff peaks form, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Carefully pour the hot syrup into the egg whites in a thin stream while beating on low. Continue beating until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy. Add vanilla extract (or peppermint extract) and a pinch of salt.
Step 5: Fold in chopped nuts if desired for added crunch and flavor.
Step 6: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Let them cool and set for several hours.

Old Fashioned Divinity Candy: 5 Steps to Perfection - Old Fashioned Divinity Candy - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Divinity Candy

Keep these in mind:

Store in an airtight container for freshness.
Humidity can affect the texture, so make on a dry day.
For a festive twist, try using peppermint extract instead of vanilla.
Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume.

Best Ways to Serve Old Fashioned Divinity Candy

When it comes to serving, there are a few delightful options:

Present them on a decorative platter at your next holiday party.
Package them in gift boxes for unique holiday gifts.
Pair with hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat.

How to Store and Reheat Old Fashioned Divinity Candy

To keep your divinity candy fresh, store it in an airtight container. It’s best enjoyed within a week for optimal texture. If you have any leftovers, simply follow the easy divinity candy instructions for best results. Remember, this candy is ideal for meal prep during the busy holiday season!

Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Divinity Candy

What’s the secret to perfect Old Fashioned Divinity Candy?

The key to perfect divinity is achieving the right temperature with your sugar syrup. Using a candy thermometer ensures you reach the hard ball stage, which is essential for the candy’s structure. Also, make sure to whip your egg whites until stiff peaks form for a fluffy texture.

Can I make Old Fashioned Divinity Candy ahead of time?

Yes, you can make divinity candy a few days in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. This makes it a great option for holiday baking prep!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Old Fashioned Divinity Candy?

One common mistake is not allowing the syrup to reach the correct temperature, which can result in a candy that is too soft. Additionally, avoid making divinity on humid days, as moisture can affect the texture and prevent it from setting properly.

Variations of Old Fashioned Divinity Candy You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Add different extracts such as almond or coconut for unique flavors.
Incorporate various nuts like pistachios or hazelnuts for added crunch.
Drizzle with chocolate for a rich twist on the classic.
For a seasonal touch, try adding festive sprinkles or colored sugar.

For more delicious recipes, check out our desserts category or learn how to make easy cinnamon rolls for a sweet breakfast treat. If you’re interested in the science behind candy making, you can read more about it here.

Old Fashioned Divinity Candy: 5 Steps to Perfection

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Old-Fashioned Divinity is a light and airy holiday candy with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This classic treat is made with a sugar syrup, whipped egg whites, and a dash of flavor, making it a nostalgic Christmas favorite. Perfect for gifting or enjoying at holiday parties, it’s a sweet addition to any dessert table.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 24 pieces 1x
Category: Candy
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup water
2 large egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or peppermint extract for a festive twist)
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Pinch of salt

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Instructions

Ensure you have a candy thermometer and a lined baking sheet for setting the candy.
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir occasionally until sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil and clip the candy thermometer to the side of the pan. Boil until the syrup reaches 250°F (hard ball stage).
In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until stiff peaks form, about 5-7 minutes.
Carefully pour the hot syrup into the egg whites in a thin stream while beating on low. Continue beating until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy. Add vanilla extract (or peppermint extract) and a pinch of salt.
Fold in chopped nuts if desired for added crunch and flavor.
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Let them cool and set for several hours.