This Divinity recipe from VRP 100 is a traditional take on the beloved candy known for its light, airy texture and sweet flavor. Made with simple ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla, this version of Divinity adds a touch of vinegar to help balance the sweetness. The result is a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for holidays or special occasions. Adding chopped nuts adds a pleasant crunch, making this candy rich and satisfying.
Unfortunately, the mice got to these recipes before they came to me, and some are hard to read due to missing pieces.
Join our Vintage Recipe Facebook Group to discuss and find “new” old recipes to enjoy.
Links to find other recipes:
Divinity
Food History
Divinity has been a popular candy in American kitchens for over a century, particularly in the South. Its exact origins are not clear, but it gained widespread popularity in the early 20th century. Its name likely refers to its “divine” taste and texture. Traditional recipes involve beating a hot sugar syrup into whipped egg whites, similar to the meringue method. The candy became especially popular during the holiday season, often made in large batches to share with family and friends.
Including corn syrup in this recipe helps prevent the sugar from crystallizing, ensuring a smooth texture. The small amount of vinegar also helps to stabilize the sugar syrup, making the candy more foolproof to prepare. The process of making Divinity requires attention to detail, especially in controlling the temperature of the sugar syrup, but the result is a elegant and nostalgic candy.
Discover the sweet secrets of divinity! From classic divinity recipes to expert cooking tips, learn how to make this fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth candy that’s perfect for any occasion.
Timeline
- Early 20th Century: Divinity candy emerges as a popular homemade treat in the United States, especially in the South. The candy is often associated with holidays and special occasions.
- Mid-20th Century: Recipes like this one, which include corn syrup and vinegar for added stability, become common in American kitchens. Divinity remains a staple of holiday baking.
- Present Day: Divinity continues to be cherished for its light texture and sweet flavor. It is often made during the holidays, passed down through generations as a family favorite.
Recipe Discussion
This Divinity recipe is divided into two parts, each requiring careful attention. In the first part, sugar, water, corn syrup, and vinegar are boiled slowly without stirring until the mixture reaches the hard-ball stage, where it hardens when dropped into cold water. After boiling, the mixture is set aside to cool slightly. This step is crucial because it ensures the syrup will blend smoothly with the egg whites later.
In the second part, a separate mixture of sugar and water is boiled until it forms threads when dropped into cold water, indicating it has reached the soft-ball stage. This mixture is then slowly beaten into stiffly whipped egg whites. Once the first mixture has cooled slightly, it is quickly poured into the egg-white mixture. The two are beaten together rapidly until the mixture loses its gloss and begins to hold its shape.
Finally, chopped nuts are added to the mixture, then dropped by spoonfuls onto wax paper to cool and set. The result is a soft, fluffy candy with a slight crunch from the nuts, perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or as a sweet treat after dinner.
Check out our other Vintage Dessert Recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Preparation Tips
- Temperature Control: Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature of the sugar syrup. This ensures that it reaches the correct stage for making Divinity.
- Egg Whites: Beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks before adding the hot syrup. This helps achieve the light, airy texture characteristic of Divinity.
- Mixing: Work quickly when combining the two mixtures to ensure the Divinity sets properly. Beating the mixture too long can cause it to harden too quickly.
Recommended Kitchen Items
The links below lead to top-rated products on Amazon—if you use our links, we can save more recipes.
- Candy Thermometer: A candy thermometer is essential for ensuring the syrup reaches the correct temperature, making the process easier and more reliable.
- Stand Mixer: A stand mixer is ideal for beating the egg whites while simultaneously adding the hot syrup, allowing for consistent mixing and a smooth texture.
- Wax Paper: Wax paper is perfect for dropping spoonfuls of Divinity to cool and set. It prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Serving Suggestions
- Holiday Treats: Serve Divinity as part of a holiday candy platter, alongside other homemade sweets like fudge, pralines, or peanut brittle.
- Gift Giving: Package these delicate treats in decorative tins or cellophane bags to give as thoughtful homemade gifts during the holiday season.
- Dessert Table: For special occasions, add Divinity to your dessert table, offering guests a light, sweet treat that contrasts nicely with richer desserts.
More Vintage Recipes
We have lots of recipes on the site that may be of interest to you. Use the links below to view other recipes similar to this Divinity recipe.
A Timeless Sweet Treat
This Divinity recipe from VRP 100 offers a delightful combination of light, fluffy texture and rich, nutty flavor. This candy captures the essence of traditional homemade confections, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or creating new memories, this Divinity recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Sweet tooth, assemble! November 4th is National Candy Day—time to channel your inner kid and celebrate with a candy stash worthy of a treasure hunt!
View other Food Holidays.
Vintage Recipe Box 100
The box this Divinity recipe was in contained many fun recipes. Click here to read the history of Vintage Recipe Box 100 and view all of its recipes.
Start Your Recipe Box
- Start your recipe box or your family or friends. View New and Vintage Recipe Boxes
- View Recipe Cards and Templates
- View Recipe Card Protectors and Sleeves
Vintage Goodies
- Vintage Kitchenware on Etsy
- Vintage Recipes on Amazon
- Vintage Cookbooks on eBay
- Vintage Cookbooks on Etsy
Divinity Recipe
Divinity (VRP 100)
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
Part 1:
- Boil slowly without stirring until a little hardens in cold water. Set aside to cool
Part 2:
- Boil 1 cup sugar & ½ cup water until it [chreads].
- Beat this slowly ____ [beat] whites of 2 eggs
- When Part One has slightly [cooled], quickly turn in to part 2.
- Beat rapidly - add 2 cup nuts