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Orange-Pistachio Divinity Recipe

4.6 from 525 reviews

Orange-Pistachio Divinity is a classic, fluffy, and chewy confection made from whipped egg whites, sugar syrup, and aromatic orange zest, enriched with crunchy pistachios. This candy is light, sweet, and perfect for gifting or enjoying as a special treat during holidays or celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Divinity Candy Ingredients

  • 2 large egg whites
  • 22/3 cups sugar
  • 2/3 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2/3 cup pistachios, coarsely chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare Egg Whites and Pans: Place the egg whites in the bowl of a stand mixer and let them stand at room temperature for 30 minutes to reach the right temperature for whipping. Meanwhile, line two 15x10x1-inch pans with waxed paper to prepare for setting the divinity drops.
  2. Cook Sugar Syrup: In a heavy, large saucepan, combine the sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves. Bring it to a boil over medium heat without stirring further. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature until it reaches 252°F, the hard-ball stage, essential for proper candy structure.
  3. Whip Egg Whites: Just before the syrup reaches 252°F, begin beating the egg whites on medium speed until stiff peaks form. This aerates the egg whites, forming the fluffy base for the divinity.
  4. Combine Syrup and Egg Whites: With the mixer running on high, slowly pour the hot sugar syrup in a thin, steady stream into the whipped egg whites, beating constantly. Occasionally scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients evenly. Add the grated orange zest and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture holds its shape and starts to lose its gloss, about 5–6 minutes, careful not to overbeat to avoid a crumbly texture.
  5. Fold in Pistachios: Gently fold the coarsely chopped pistachios into the candy mixture, distributing the nuts evenly throughout without deflating the mixture.
  6. Shape and Set: Quickly spoon the mixture by tablespoonfuls onto the prepared waxed paper-lined pans. Let the divinity drops stand at room temperature until dry to the touch, ensuring a chewy yet set texture.
  7. Store Properly: Once dry, store the divinity candy between layers of waxed paper in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and prevent sticking.

Notes

  • Use a reliable candy thermometer to ensure the syrup reaches the correct temperature for perfect texture.
  • Do not overbeat the divinity mixture as it can harden and crumble.
  • Let egg whites come to room temperature for better volume when whipping.
  • If desired, substitute pistachios with other nuts like almonds or pecans for flavor variation.
  • Store in a cool, dry place to keep the candy from becoming sticky.

Keywords: divinity candy, orange pistachio candy, homemade divinity, holiday candy, egg white candy