Butter Divinity
The rich, satisfying taste of Granny's Butter Divinity is a throwback to a simpler time. These light and fluffy candies are like clouds, with features of marshmallow, nougat, and fudge. There was always plenty of milk on the farm so Granny likes to add a scoop of butter to enhance this old-school delight.
Besides omitting the dairy, there are other ways to adjust the recipe. Brown sugar instead of white, for instance, creates “sea foam” candy. And alternatives to corn syrup, like maple syrup or honey, can be used as a sweetener.
Ingredients
4 cups white sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
1⁄8 teaspoon salt
4 egg whites
1⁄2 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Method
- 1. Combine sugar, syrup, salt, and 1 cup water in a large saucepan. Heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved. Boil rapidly until you can form a hard ball in cold water with a little bit of the mixture.
- 2. Remove from heat and pour over stiffly beaten egg whites, beating constantly. Add butter and vanilla. Beat until stiff.
- 3. Drop by spoonfuls on wax or parchment paper. If desired, top with cordial cherries or nuts (or both!)
Looking for a sweet and heavenly treat? Look no further than butter divinity, a confection that has been enjoyed by Americans for over a century. While the origins of this delicious candy are still debated by food historians, it is widely agreed upon that divinity is an American invention that first gained popularity in the early twentieth century. The availability of corn syrup, a cheap alternative to cane sugar, became common and food companies promoted recipes to showcase their new product.
While the exact origins of the name "divinity" remain unknown, it is believed to have been inspired by the heavenly taste of the finished product. Today, divinity is a staple in many American cookbooks and can be found in various forms such as candy, fudge, and rolls. Although divinity is often associated with southern cuisine, it is enjoyed all over the country and can be customized with a variety of ingredients such as nuts and fruit. Butter divinity is considered the candy’s most elevated form.
Adding butter to the recipe ensures a rich and creamy flavor that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, making divinity is easy and fun. So why not try your hand at Granny’s favorite confection?
