Delightful Easy Divinity Candy

Every holiday season, my family would gather around the kitchen, the air filled with the sweet scent of something magical. One of my fondest memories is the first time I helped my grandmother make Easy Divinity Candy. I was just a little kid, standing on a stool, watching her whip egg whites into fluffy clouds. It felt like alchemy, transforming simple ingredients into a treat that would bring smiles to everyone's faces. Now, every Christmas, I carry on that tradition, bringing my own kids into the mix, creating our own little candy-making memories.

Easy Divinity Candy is not just a treat; it's a reminder of family, laughter, and the joy of creating together. This light and airy candy is perfect for the holiday season, but honestly, it's delicious any time of year. With its sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture, it's sure to become a beloved addition to your dessert table. So, let's roll up our sleeves and dive into making this delightful candy that's sure to create your own sweet memories.

Why You'll Love "Easy Divinity Candy"

• Quick and easy to make, ready in just 45 minutes!
• Only five simple ingredients required, making it budget-friendly.
• Light and airy texture that melts in your mouth - perfect for any occasion.
• A fun, family-friendly recipe that kids can help with.
• Can be made ahead of time and stored for later, perfect for holiday gifting.
• Versatile enough to customize with different nuts or flavorings!

Ingredients You'll Need

• 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ½ cup water
• 2 large egg whites, at room temperature for best results
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, pure for the best flavor
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional; feel free to swap for almonds or leave out for a nut-free version)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Although we won't be baking in the oven for this candy, it's always a good idea to have everything ready to go. So, gather your tools and ingredients, and make sure your work surface is clean and organized. You're going to love how simple this process is!

Make the Syrup

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine 2 ½ cups of granulated sugar, ½ cup of light corn syrup, and ½ cup of water. Stir gently to combine, then place the saucepan over medium heat. You'll want to cook this mixture until it reaches the soft ball stage, which is about 234°F. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy, or drop a small amount into cold water; it should form a soft ball when ready. This step is crucial, so keep an eye on it, and don't rush!

Beat the Egg Whites

While your syrup is cooking, grab a mixing bowl and beat 2 large egg whites at room temperature. Use an electric mixer to whip them until stiff peaks form; this means they should hold their shape firmly. Once the syrup reaches the right temperature, gradually pour the hot syrup into the egg whites while continuing to mix. This is where the magic happens! Keep beating until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy - it should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Don't worry if it looks a little different from what you expect at first; just trust the process!

Mix in Flavorings

Once your mixture is thick and shiny, add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that wonderful flavor. If you're using nuts, this is the time to fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts. Stir gently to distribute everything evenly and let those lovely flavors meld together.

Drop and Cool

Now for the fun part! Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the candy mixture onto wax paper. Space them a little apart to give them room to expand as they cool. Let them sit at room temperature until they're completely cool and set, which usually takes about 30 minutes. Just try not to sneak too many tastes while you're waiting - it's hard, I know!

Variations

• For a festive twist, add crushed peppermint candies for a holiday flavor.
• Try using almond extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor profile.
• Substitute the nuts with dried fruit like cranberries or cherries for a chewy texture.
• Make it gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Add a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness and enhance flavors.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

To serve your Easy Divinity Candy, arrange the pieces on a decorative platter or in small treat bags for a charming presentation. These candies make delightful gifts during the holidays, so don't hesitate to share them with friends and family!

Storage

Store your divinity candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure they're well-wrapped to maintain their delightful texture!

Helpful Notes

• For best results, make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and dry; any grease can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly.
• If you don't have light corn syrup, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup, but the texture may vary slightly.
• Feel free to add a splash of food coloring for a fun, festive look!
• This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great treat for those with gluten sensitivities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Easy Divinity Candy?

Yes, you can freeze Easy Divinity Candy! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw at room temperature.

What can I substitute for walnuts?

If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have an allergy, you can easily substitute them with chopped pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. You could also leave them out entirely for a smooth, classic divinity.

How do I know when the syrup is ready?

The syrup is ready when it reaches the soft ball stage, which is about 234°F on a candy thermometer. If you don’t have one, you can drop a small amount of syrup into cold water; it should form a soft ball that squishes between your fingers but doesn’t flatten out.

Final Thoughts

As you embark on your candy-making adventure with Easy Divinity Candy, remember that the best moments happen in the kitchen, surrounded by the ones you love. This recipe isn't just about the delicious end result; it's about the laughter, the shared memories, and the joy of creating something sweet together. I hope you find as much delight in making this candy as I do, and that it brings a touch of magic to your celebrations. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let's make some delightful memories that will last a lifetime!