There’s something truly magical about homemade divinity—fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth clouds of sweetness that bring back memories of childhood holiday baking. This Cherry Almond Divinity takes a beloved Old Fashioned Dessert Recipe and elevates it with the delightful combination of tart cherries and nutty almonds. If you’re looking for a No Fail Divinity Recipe that delivers perfect results every time, you’ve come to the right place.
Cherry Almond Divinity
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Heavy-bottomed saucepan
Candy thermometer
Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
Parchment paper or wax paper
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cookie scoop or two spoons
- 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup water
- 2 egg whites at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- ½ cup chopped maraschino cherries drained and patted dry
- ½ cup sliced almonds
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- Optional: Red food coloring for a festive touch
Prepare Your Ingredients
Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. Drain and pat dry the cherries, then chop them finely. Set aside with the almonds.
Cook the Sugar Mixture
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Attach a candy thermometer and let the mixture boil without stirring until it reaches 250°F (hard-ball stage).
Beat the Egg Whites
While the sugar mixture is cooking, beat the egg whites in a stand mixer (or with an electric hand mixer) until stiff peaks form.
Combine the Mixtures
Once the sugar reaches 250°F, carefully pour it in a thin, steady stream into the egg whites while continuing to beat at medium speed. Add the vanilla and almond extracts. Continue beating for about 5-7 minutes or until the mixture loses its gloss and holds its shape.
Fold in Cherries and Almonds
Gently fold in the chopped cherries and almonds. If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring to enhance the festive appearance.
Shape the Divinity
Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop spoonful of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Let them set at room temperature for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Serve and Enjoy
Once set, enjoy your homemade Divinity Candy Recipe or store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Perfect Pairings
This Traditional Christmas Dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of hot cocoa, spiced tea, or freshly brewed coffee. If serving at a holiday gathering, consider complementing it with buttery shortbread cookies or chocolate fudge for a well-rounded treat table.
FAQs
1. What type of cherries should I use?
Maraschino cherries work best because they’re sweet and colorful, but you can also use dried cherries for a more intense tartness.
2. Can I use different nuts?
Absolutely! While almonds add a wonderful crunch, pecans or walnuts work well too.
3. Why is my divinity too soft or sticky?
Humidity is the enemy of divinity. If the air is too moist, the candy may not set properly. Making this Easy Divinity Recipe on a dry day will yield the best results.
4. Can I make this without a candy thermometer?
Yes! Use the cold water test: Drop a small spoonful of the hot sugar mixture into a bowl of cold water. If it forms a firm but pliable ball, it's ready.
