Divine Holiday Candy

🍬 Welcome to the enchanting world of Basic Divinity, a timeless candy recipe that transcends generations, capturing the sweet essence of nostalgia and cherished memories. 🌟 Inspired by a deep connection with a dear friend, whose heart is entwined with the loving recollections of his grandmother’s divinity, this recipe is crafted with love to be a delightful surprise for the upcoming holiday season. 🎄

✨ Recipe Overview:

• Name: Basic Divinity
• Category: Candy
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 1 pound
• Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5 (3.5 stars)
• Reviews: 2

📜 Ingredients:

• 2 cups white sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup cherries (optional)

🔍 Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 513.5
• Fat: 11.9g
• Saturated Fat: 1.6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 216.3mg
• Carbohydrates: 102.5g
• Fiber: 4.3g
• Sugar: 78.7g
• Protein: 5.7g

⏰ Time Table:

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prewarm Thermometer: Begin by prewarming your candy thermometer; simply place it in a small saucepan of cold water and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer until needed.

2. Prepare Eggs: Separate the eggs, allowing the whites to reach room temperature in a large bowl of an electric mixer. Fill a glass with ice cubes and water.

3. Prepare Pans: For dropped divinities, use two cookie sheets topped with greased wax paper. For squares, use a greased and wax paper-lined 8×8-inch pan.

4. Combine Ingredients: Measure the sugar, corn syrup, ice water, and salt. Dump them into a heavy 2-quart saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.

5. Dissolve Sugar: Dissolve the sugar over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the syrup becomes clear, the gritty sounds cease, and the spoon glides smoothly.

6. Bring to Boil: Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a boil. Optionally, cover the pan with wax paper and a lid, steaming for 2-3 minutes to dissolve sugar crystals.

7. Prepare Thermometer: Wash down any crystals clinging to the sides, introduce the prewarmed thermometer, and beat the egg whites until stiff but not dry.

8. Incorporate Syrup: Dribble the syrup into the egg whites in a slow, steady stream, beating at slow speed. Once incorporated, change to a flat whip if available.

9. Beat Until Stiff: Patience is key. Beat at the highest speed of your mixer, adjusting based on its power. The duration can vary, from under 5 minutes for heavy-duty mixers to up to 20 minutes for less powerful ones.

10. Check Consistency: Test the divinity by lifting the beaters. If it falls back in ribbons, continue beating until a stationary column forms. The candy should lose its sheen, stop being sticky, and hold its shape when dropped onto wax paper.

11. Optional Freezing: If needed, pour the mixture into a frost-free freezer to set up, or finish by hand if it’s not quite there yet.

12. Add Flavors: Fold in flavorings, nuts, or optional items using the mixer or a wooden spoon if very thick.

13. Shape Divinity: Drop or spread the divinity on wax paper-covered cookie sheets or the buttered pan. If spreading in the pan, wait up to 24 hours before it’s ready.

14. Final Touch: Score and cut into squares. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

🌈 Tips and Tricks:

• For a quick setup, use a frost-free freezer if your divinity needs a little extra firmness.
• Experiment with piping the candy using a pastry bag for a more decorative touch.
• The flavor intensifies after 24 hours, so be patient if you can resist the temptation!

Now, embark on this delightful journey to create Basic Divinity – a sweet symphony of tradition and flavor that will surely become a cherished part of your holiday celebrations! ✨🍭