Mom’s Divinity is a nostalgic, old-fashioned confection that balances intense sweetness with the rich crunch of pecans. This candy relies on the delicate chemistry of whipped egg whites and hot sugar syrup to create its signature airy, yet chewy texture. The addition of light corn syrup ensures the sugar doesn’t crystallize, resulting in a smooth, glossy finish. It is a perfect homemade gift or a special treat for holidays and afternoon tea. While the process requires patience and attention to humidity, the reward is a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that feels like a hug from grandma.
Mom’S Divinity
Description
Mom's Divinity is a nostalgic, old-fashioned confection that balances intense sweetness with the rich crunch of pecans. This candy relies on the delicate chemistry of whipped egg whites and hot sugar syrup to create its signature airy, yet chewy texture. The addition of light corn syrup ensures the sugar doesn't crystallize, resulting in a smooth, glossy finish. It is a perfect homemade gift or a special treat for holidays and afternoon tea. While the process requires patience and attention to humidity, the reward is a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that feels like a hug from grandma.Ingredients
Directions
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In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and light corn syrup.
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Place over medium heat and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
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Boil without stirring until the syrup reaches the soft-ball stage (238&# 194;°F (114ðC) (116ðC)to 240ðF) or forms a thread when dropped from the spoon. This takes about 10 minutes.
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While the syrup cooks, beat the egg white and a pinch of salt in a large bowl until stiff peaks form.
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Remove the syrup from the heat.
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With the mixer running on high speed, slowly pour the hot syrup in a thin, steady stream into the beaten egg whites. Be careful not to hit the sides of the bowl.
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Continue beating until the mixture becomes thick, stiff, and pale.
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Add the vanilla extract and beat for another minute to incorporate.
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Stir the mixture by hand until it loses its glossy sheen and becomes matte. This may take several minutes of vigorous stirring.
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Once the mixture has cooled slightly and thickened, fold in the broken pecans.
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Drop the candy by tablespoonfuls onto waxed paper or parchment paper.
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Allow to cool and set completely at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 480.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 24.3g38%
- Saturated Fat 3.5g18%
- Cholesterol 93.2mg32%
- Sodium 31.8mg2%
- Total Carbohydrate 64.5g22%
- Dietary Fiber 2.9g12%
- Sugars 61.5g
- Protein 6.0g12%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Weather Warning: Divinity is very sensitive to humidity. Only attempt this recipe on a dry day, as moisture in the air can prevent the candy from setting properly.
Nut Timing: Wait until the mixture has cooled slightly before adding the nuts. Adding them too early can pull oil out of the nuts, causing the candy to fail to harden.
Scaling: If doubling or quadruping the recipe, use no less than 2 cups of sugar. For larger batches, add an extra egg white, especially if using smaller eggs.
Variation: Try stirring in 3 oz of broken white chocolate before dropping the candy onto paper. The residual heat will melt it slightly for a marbled effect.
