Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 cups popped popcorn
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the popped popcorn evenly on it.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
4. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Insert a candy thermometer and cook until the temperature reaches 260°F.
5. While the sugar mixture is cooking, beat the egg whites and salt in a large mixing bowl until stiff peaks form.
6. When the sugar mixture reaches 260°F, remove it from the heat and gradually pour it into the egg whites while beating on high speed.
7. Add the vanilla extract and food coloring (if using) and continue to beat until the mixture becomes thick and glossy.
8. Pour the divinity mixture over the popcorn and stir until the popcorn is evenly coated.
9. Bake the popcorn in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the divinity coating is dry and crispy.
10. Remove the popcorn from the oven and let it cool completely before breaking it into pieces.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 200°F
Sugar mixture temperature: 260°F
Serving size:
This recipe makes about 8 servings.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 280
Total fat: 1g
Sodium: 150mg
Total carbohydrates: 67g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Light corn syrup can be substituted with honey or agave nectar.
- Granulated sugar can be substituted with brown sugar or coconut sugar.
- Food coloring can be omitted or replaced with natural food coloring alternatives.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the popcorn before coating it with the divinity mixture.
- Use different food coloring to create a festive look for holidays or special occasions.
- Substitute vanilla extract with other flavorings such as almond extract or peppermint extract.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to stir the popcorn and divinity mixture thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature.
- Store the divinity popcorn in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Storage instructions:
Store the divinity popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the divinity popcorn in the oven at 200°F for 5-10 minutes to restore its crispiness.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the divinity popcorn in a festive bowl or container for a fun and colorful snack.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle some powdered sugar or cocoa powder over the divinity popcorn for an extra touch of sweetness.
Pairings:
Serve the divinity popcorn with hot cocoa or apple cider for a cozy treat.
Suggested side dishes:
This recipe can be served as a snack or dessert on its own.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the divinity mixture becomes too thick or grainy, try adding a tablespoon of hot water and beating it again.
- If the divinity coating becomes too sticky or gooey, try baking it in the oven for a few more minutes.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use a clean and dry mixing bowl and utensils when making the divinity mixture to avoid contamination.
Food history:
Divinity candy is a traditional Southern treat that dates back to the early 1900s. It is made with sugar, corn syrup, egg whites, and flavorings, and has a light and fluffy texture.
Flavor profiles:
This recipe has a sweet and crunchy flavor with a hint of vanilla.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the divinity popcorn as a snack or dessert for parties, movie nights, or any occasion.
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