Easy Homemade Divinity Candy

Directions

1. Prepare the Sugar Syrup: In a heavy 2-quart saucepan, combine sugar, water, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Continue cooking until a candy thermometer reads 248°F (120°C), about 15 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. Beat Egg Whites: In a large bowl, beat egg whites at high speed with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
3. First Syrup Addition: Pour half of the hot syrup in a thin stream over the beaten egg whites while continuing to beat at high speed for about 5 minutes. The mixture will start to thicken and become glossy.
4. Cook Remaining Syrup: Place the remaining syrup back on medium heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches 272°F (133°C), about 4–5 minutes.
5. Second Syrup Addition: Slowly pour the remaining hot syrup and vanilla extract over the egg white mixture, beating constantly at high speed until the mixture holds its shape, about 6–8 minutes.
6. Add Pecans: Gently fold in the 1 cup of chopped, toasted pecans.
7. Shape Candies: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto waxed paper. Garnish with toasted pecan halves while still slightly soft. Allow to set completely at room temperature, about 1–2 hours.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: About 24 pieces
Difficulty: Medium

Variations & Substitutions

• Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Add a few drops of peppermint or almond extract instead of vanilla for a festive twist.
• Sprinkle a light dusting of colored sugar for decorative holiday treats.

Serving Suggestions