Divinity Cookies are a classic Southern candy-style treat with a soft, pillowy texture that melts in your mouth. Made with whipped egg whites, a hot sugar syrup, and crunchy pecans, these delicacies are perfect for holidays, parties, or any time you want an elegant, sweet treat. While they require a bit of technique, the result is absolutely worth it.

Why You’ll Love This Divinity Cookies : 

1. Timeless Tradition: A nostalgic treat that’s been cherished for generations.
2. Elegant Presentation: Topped with pecan halves, these cookies look as lovely as they taste.
3. Perfect for Sharing: Great for gifting, holiday platters, or as a special dessert.

Ingredients For Divinity Cookies : 

Base Ingredients:

• 2 ⅔ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ½ cup water

For the Whipped Base:

• 2 large egg whites, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix-Ins and Toppings:

• ⅔ cup finely chopped pecans
• Toasted pecan halves, optional for topping

Equipment Needed :

• Candy thermometer
• Stand mixer with whisk attachment
• Parchment paper
• 2 greased spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions :

Step 1: Prepare Baking Sheets

1. Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Grease two spoons with non-stick cooking spray and set aside. These will help with shaping the divinity drops later.

Step 2: Cook the Sugar Syrup

1. In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture begins to boil.
2. Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bottom of the pan.
3. Continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 260°F (hard ball stage).

Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites

1. While the sugar syrup is cooking, beat the egg whites in a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment.
2. Whip on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. The egg whites should hold their shape and not droop when the whisk is lifted.

Step 4: Combine Syrup with Egg Whites

1. Once the sugar syrup reaches 260°F, remove it from the heat.
2. With the mixer running on medium speed, slowly and carefully pour the hot sugar syrup into the whipped egg whites in a thin, steady stream. Avoid pouring directly onto the whisk to prevent splattering.
3. Add the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Beat Until Thickened

1. Increase the mixer speed to high and continue whipping for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture holds its shape and loses its gloss. The mixture should be thick and slightly stiff, but not over-beaten or crumbly.

Step 6: Add Pecans

1. Gently fold in the chopped pecans using a spatula.

Step 7: Form the Cookies

1. Working quickly, use the greased spoons to drop dollops of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets.
2. Optional: Press a toasted pecan half onto the top of each cookie for decoration.

Step 8: Let Set

1. Allow the cookies to set at room temperature overnight, or until they are firm and dry to the touch. This can take anywhere from 6-12 hours, depending on humidity.

Tips for Success :

1. Work Quickly: Once the mixture is ready, it will begin to set fast. Have everything prepped and ready to go before you start.
2. Monitor Temperature Closely: Use a candy thermometer to ensure the syrup reaches exactly 260°F—this is crucial for the right consistency.
3. Room Temperature Egg Whites: Cold egg whites don’t whip as well, so ensure they’re at room temperature.
4. Avoid Humidity: High humidity can affect the setting process, so make these on a dry day for best results.

Variations :

• Nut Substitutions: Swap pecans for chopped walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts.
• Flavor Additions: Experiment with different extracts like almond, orange, or peppermint for unique flavor profiles.
• Festive Touch: Add a drop of food coloring or sprinkle with edible glitter for a holiday-themed version.

Divinity Cookies FAQs :

Serving Suggestions :

• Holiday Treats: Arrange on a dessert platter with fudge, truffles, and brittle for a festive spread.
• Gifting: Package in decorative tins or cellophane bags for thoughtful holiday gifts.
• Tea Time: Pair with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.

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Yield: 24 cookies

Divinity Cookies

Print

Delicate and sweet, these Divinity Cookies are a nostalgic treat that never goes out of style. With their light, fluffy texture and crunchy pecan bits, they’re sure to impress at your next gathering. Happy baking!

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 ⅔ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ½ cup water
• 2 large egg whites, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅔ cup finely chopped pecans
• Toasted pecan halves (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. Line baking sheets with parchment paper and grease two spoons.
2. In a saucepan, heat sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium-low heat. Stir until dissolved and boiling. Cook to 260°F without stirring.
3. While syrup cooks, beat egg whites in a stand mixer until stiff peaks form.
4. Slowly pour the hot syrup into the egg whites while mixing on medium speed. Add vanilla.
5. Increase speed to high and beat until thickened, about 5-10 minutes. Fold in chopped pecans.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto prepared sheets. Top with pecan halves, if desired.
7. Let set at room temperature overnight until firm and dry.

Notes

Nutrition (per cookie):Calories: 120 | Carbs: 22g | Fat: 4g | Protein: 1g

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