Few things bring to mind the charm and coziness of the holiday season quite like homemade candies. For a truly Southern touch to your Christmas celebrations, look no further than this classic recipe for Divinity Candy. Soft, chewy, pillowy, and sweet, this delightful treat is sure to become a favorite among your friends and family. The process may seem a bit daunting at first, but with a little bit of patience and practice, you’ll soon be whipping up batches of these sugary delights with ease.
Title: Divinity Candy Soft Chewy Pillowy And Sweet A Classic Southern Christmas Recipe
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans, optional
Instructions:
1. Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and setting it aside. This will be used to scoop and shape your Divinity Candy later on.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and corn syrup. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture until the sugar has dissolved completely. Using a candy thermometer, bring the mixture to 260°F (hard-ball stage).
3. While the sugar mixture is cooking, in a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This can be done by hand or with an electric mixer.
4. Once the sugar mixture has reached the correct temperature, carefully pour a slow, steady stream of it into the beaten egg whites, while continuing to beat the mixture at medium speed. Be cautious as the hot sugar can cause severe burns.
5. Continue beating the mixture until it becomes thick and holds its shape. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the vanilla extract and continue to beat the mixture until it is very thick and can hold its shape well. This step is crucial for the texture of the candy.
7. If desired, gently fold in the chopped pecans at this point for an added crunch and flavor.
8. Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, drop dollops of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. The candies should hold their shape and not spread too much.
9. Allow the Divinity Candy to sit at room temperature until they are completely set and firm, typically for about 2 hours. The candies should be soft, chewy, and slightly tacky to the touch.
10. Once the candies are set, carefully remove them from the parchment paper and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Divinity Candy is best enjoyed within a few days of making.
These delightful Divinity Candies are perfect for gifting to loved ones or as a sweet treat to enjoy during the festive season. Their soft, chewy texture and sweet flavor will have everyone coming back for more. Embrace the spirit of the holidays with this classic Southern recipe that is sure to bring joy to your home.
