Simple Divinity Candy No Corn Syrup is the perfect old-fashioned treat—fluffy, sweet, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Traditionally made with corn syrup, this version skips it entirely and still delivers that classic cloud-like texture. Using only basic pantry ingredients like granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg whites, and water, this nostalgic candy is easier than you think to master. Whether you’re making it for holiday trays, edible gifts, or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, this candy is a homemade classic with a modern twist.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ No corn syrup required — Uses everyday sugars
- 🕒 Quick — Ready in under 45 minutes
- 🧁 Just 5 ingredients — No fancy tools needed
- 🎁 Perfect for gifting — Makes a pretty, nostalgic treat
- 🧑🍳 Beginner-friendly tips included — We’ll guide you through every step
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups packed light brown sugar
- 1.5 cups white granulated sugar
- ¾ cup water
- 2 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond/peppermint)
Optional:
- Pinch of sea salt (sprinkled on top for contrast)
- Food coloring or chopped nuts for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the sugars
In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, white sugar, and water. Stir over medium heat until fully dissolved. - Boil to hard-ball stage
Without stirring, bring the mixture to a boil. Use a candy thermometer and cook until it reaches 255–260°F. This step is crucial—don’t guess! - Beat egg whites
While the syrup boils, beat the egg whites in a clean, dry mixing bowl on high speed until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla extract and mix briefly. - Combine syrup with egg whites
Once the sugar syrup is at the correct temperature, slowly drizzle it into the beaten egg whites while mixing constantly on medium-high. Pour in a thin stream—don’t rush. - Beat until glossy & thick
Continue beating for 5–10 minutes until the candy thickens, loses its glossy appearance, and holds its shape. The mixture should stand in stiff mounds. - Shape the candy
Using two spoons, drop mounds onto wax paper. Work quickly—divinity sets fast! Sprinkle with sea salt or add nuts if desired. - Cool and store
Let candies cool completely. Once firm, store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–30 minutes
- Total Time: 35–45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Level: Medium difficulty
Nutrition Facts (Full Batch Estimate)
- Calories: ~1300 total
- Carbs: 330g
- Protein: 6–8g
- Fat: 0–2g
- Note: Per piece will vary depending on portion size
Tips & Variations
- 🌧️ Avoid humidity: Make on a dry day or your candy may stay sticky.
- 🌡️ Thermometer required: Candy must reach exactly 255–260°F to set.
- 🥚 Use fresh egg whites: Carton egg whites won’t whip properly.
- 🥄 Work fast: Drop candy quickly once it’s ready or it will set in the bowl.
Flavor Variations:
- Swap vanilla for peppermint or almond extract
- Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for texture
- Add a touch of pink food coloring for a festive look
FAQs
Can I use only white sugar?
Yes! If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use all white sugar. The flavor will be slightly less rich, but the candy will still turn out beautifully.
Why didn’t my divinity set?
Humidity or incorrect temperature are usually to blame. Always use a candy thermometer and avoid making this on rainy days.
How should I store divinity candy?
In a dry, airtight container at room temperature with parchment between layers. Do not refrigerate—it makes the candy sticky.
Can I freeze divinity?
It’s not recommended. Freezing affects the texture due to moisture changes.
Simple Divinity Candy No Corn Syrup
Equipment
- – Candy thermometer
- – Stand or hand mixer
- – Wax paper
Ingredients
- – 1.5 cups packed light brown sugar
- – 1.5 cups white granulated sugar
- – ¾ cup water
- – 2 large egg whites room temperature
- – 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ### Optional
- – Pinch of sea salt
- – Chopped nuts or food coloring
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugars and water. Stir to dissolve.
- Bring to boil **without stirring**. Cook to **255–260°F** (hard ball stage).
- While boiling, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla.
- Slowly pour hot syrup into egg whites while beating on medium-high.
- Continue beating until mixture thickens and loses gloss (5–10 min).
- Drop spoonfuls onto wax paper. Optional: sprinkle salt or nuts.
- Let cool and store in airtight container.
Notes
– Be precise with temperature for best results.
– Work quickly once candy thickens.
Conclusion
Simple Divinity Candy No Corn Syrup proves you don’t need corn syrup for traditional results. With just a few ingredients and a little technique, you can whip up a nostalgic, fluffy treat that’s perfect for any season. Serve with coffee, give as a gift, or enjoy straight from the wax paper—this timeless candy will be your new holiday favorite.