Craving something sweet and unique? Candied Cherry Divinity Squares are a treat you’ll love! Picture soft, fluffy squares packed with candied cherries and a hint of vanilla. They melt in your mouth and make the perfect gift or snack. In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step to create these delightful candies. Get ready to impress with a dessert that’s easy to make and hard to resist!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delightful Flavor Combination: The sweet and tangy taste of candied cherries perfectly complements the rich, airy texture of the divinity.
- Perfect for Celebrations: These squares make a beautiful addition to any holiday dessert table, adding a pop of color and elegance.
- Fun to Make: The process of beating the egg whites and pouring in the hot sugar syrup is both exciting and rewarding.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the nuts or add different flavors to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 2/3 cup water
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
The main ingredients create the sweet and chewy base of our Candied Cherry Divinity Squares. The granulated sugar gives it sweetness, while light corn syrup adds smoothness. Water helps to dissolve the sugar, making a syrup. Egg whites are crucial for creating the light and airy texture. Cream of tartar stabilizes the egg whites, ensuring they whip up nicely.
Flavor Enhancements
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped candied cherries (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Flavor enhancements make these squares truly special. Vanilla extract adds warmth and depth. Chopped candied cherries bring bursts of sweetness and color. You can add walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunch, but they are optional. The extra chopped cherries on top make for a beautiful garnish.
Equipment Needed
- Candy thermometer
- Electric mixer
- Parchment paper
Using the right tools is key to making great divinity. A candy thermometer helps you monitor the sugar mixture’s temperature accurately. An electric mixer is essential for whipping the egg whites to the perfect peaks. Parchment paper makes it easy to lift the finished squares out of the dish without sticking. With these ingredients and tools, you are ready to create a delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Sugar Mixture
First, grab a medium saucepan and add:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 2/3 cup water
Stir these ingredients over medium heat. Keep stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Once dissolved, stop stirring. Let the mixture boil. Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature. Cook until it reaches 250°F (121°C), which is the hard-ball stage. This step is key for a firm texture.
Whipping the Egg Whites
While the sugar mixture heats, take a large mixing bowl. Add:
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Beat these together with an electric mixer on medium speed. Keep going until you see soft peaks form. This usually takes a few minutes. When the sugar mixture reaches the right temperature, carefully pour it in. Do this in a thin stream while you beat the egg whites on high speed.
Final Assembly
After adding the sugar mixture, continue beating until it cools and forms stiff peaks. This process takes about 5-7 minutes. It should be glossy and hold its shape well. Next, gently fold in:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped candied cherries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Now, line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave some overhang for easy removal. Pour the divinity mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 2-4 hours or until it is set.
Once set, lift the divinity out using the parchment paper. Cut it into squares. If you want, you can garnish with extra chopped candied cherries on top. Enjoy your sweet treat!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Divinity
To make great divinity, you need to focus on temperature. Use a candy thermometer for best results. Cook the sugar mixture until it hits 250°F. This is the hard-ball stage. If the temperature is too low, your divinity won’t set. Too high, and it will be too hard.
For glossy peaks, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Add cream of tartar for stability. When you pour in the hot sugar mixture, keep the mixer on high. This helps create that shiny, smooth texture we love.
Presentation Techniques
Once your divinity is ready, it’s time to showcase it. Arrange the squares on a nice plate. You can use decorative paper liners to make it look fancy.
For added flair, sprinkle edible glitter or more chopped cherries around the squares. This makes your treat pop! A beautiful presentation can make any treat more appealing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Watch out for issues with egg whites. If your bowl has any fat, the egg whites won’t whip up well. Make sure everything is clean and dry before you start.
Also, be careful with your sugar mixture. If you stir it while it cooks, it can crystallize. This causes grainy divinity instead of smooth candy. Let it boil without stirring, and you’ll have a perfect batch every time.
Pro Tips
- Use a Candy Thermometer: Ensuring the sugar mixture reaches exactly 250°F (121°C) is crucial for the perfect texture of the divinity.
- Beat Egg Whites Properly: Whipping the egg whites to soft peaks before adding the hot sugar mixture helps create a light and airy texture in the final product.
- Cool Down Before Folding: Allow the sugar mixture to cool slightly before folding it into the egg whites; this prevents the eggs from cooking and ensures a smooth blend.
- Store in an Airtight Container: To maintain freshness and prevent sticking, store the divinity squares in an airtight container at room temperature.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the flavor of your Candied Cherry Divinity Squares by using different extracts. For example, almond extract gives a sweet, nutty taste. Lemon extract adds a bright, fresh note. You can also mix in dried fruits like apricots or cranberries. These fruits add a chewy texture and more flavor.
Dietary Adjustments
To make your divinity nut-free, simply leave out the walnuts or pecans. You can easily replace them with more candied cherries or use sunflower seeds. If you’re looking for a vegan version, swap the egg whites with aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas. Whip it just like egg whites, and you’ll get great results.
Garnishing Ideas
Garnishing adds a fun touch to your divinity squares. You can use toppings like shredded coconut or crushed cookies for texture. A light drizzle of melted chocolate gives a rich finish. For a simple touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top. This makes the squares look even more inviting and delicious.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your Candied Cherry Divinity Squares fresh, store them at room temperature. Use an airtight container. This helps maintain their soft texture. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near heat. They stay good for about a week.
Long-Term Storage
If you want to save them for later, freezing is a great option. Cut the divinity into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. Once firm, transfer the squares to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.
Storing Fresh Ingredients
Candied cherries and nuts need care to stay fresh. Keep candied cherries in a cool, dry place. An airtight jar works well. For nuts, store them in the fridge for long-lasting crunch. Avoid moisture to prevent them from going stale. If you buy in bulk, consider freezing extra nuts in small portions. This keeps their flavor and texture intact.
FAQs
What is Divinity?
Divinity is a soft, fluffy candy made from sugar and egg whites. It has roots in the Southern United States and dates back to the early 1900s. The candy has a light texture and is often flavored with vanilla. Its name comes from the divine taste it offers. Traditionally, divinity includes nuts and dried fruits, making it a delightful treat.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of candied?
Using fresh cherries changes both texture and flavor. Fresh cherries have more moisture. This can make the divinity too sticky and soft. Candied cherries add sweetness and chewiness. They also enhance the overall flavor and keep the divinity firm.
How do I know when my divinity is done?
You can tell the divinity is done by its look and feel. When the mixture forms stiff peaks, it is ready. The candy should look glossy and hold its shape well. It should not be runny or too sticky. A good test is to let it sit for a minute. If it holds its peak without drooping, you’re all set!
You learned how to make divinity candy from scratch. We covered essential ingredients, equipment needed, and clear steps for success. I shared tips on perfecting your divinity and creative variations to try. Storage techniques help keep your treats fresh. Remember, mastering divinity takes practice, so don’t worry if it’s not perfect the first time. Enjoy the process, and share your tasty results with friends and famil
Candied Cherry Divinity Squares
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cups light corn syrup
- 2.3 cups water
- 2 large egg whites
- 0.25 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped candied cherries
- 0.5 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Once dissolved, stop stirring and bring the mixture to a boil. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature; cook until it reaches 250°F (121°C) for the hard-ball stage.
- While the sugar mixture is heating, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Once the sugar mixture reaches the desired temperature, carefully pour it in a thin stream into the egg whites while continuing to beat on high speed.
- Continue to beat the mixture until it cools down slightly and forms stiff peaks, about 5-7 minutes. It should look glossy and hold its shape.
- Gently fold in the vanilla extract, chopped candied cherries, walnuts or pecans (if using), and a pinch of salt until fully incorporated.
- Line an 8x8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Pour the divinity mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Allow the divinity to cool at room temperature for about 2-4 hours or until set.
- Once set, lift the divinity out of the dish using the parchment paper and cut it into squares. Garnish with additional chopped candied cherries on top, if desired.
