Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Jell-O Divinity recipe is foolproof, making it a perfect treat for beginners or anyone who wants a fun, colorful candy without any fuss. The Jell-O powder adds a unique flavor and color, while the fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for an Easter candy or a special gift, this candy is sure to impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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3 cups granulated sugar
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¾ cup light corn syrup
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¾ cup water
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⅛ teaspoon salt
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2 egg whites (room temperature)
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3 tablespoons Jell-O powder (flavor of your choice)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or other flavor; clear vanilla works best)
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1 cup chopped nuts (optional; pecans are commonly used)
Directions
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Prepare the Baking Sheets: Line two large baking sheets with waxed paper. Butter two large spoons and set them aside.
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Cook the Sugar Mixture: In a 3-quart saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar. Once it reaches a boil, stop stirring and continue cooking until it reaches 250°F (hard ball stage). Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pot. The thermometer will beep when the correct temperature is reached.
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Whisk the Egg Whites: While the syrup is cooking, whisk the egg whites in a heavy-duty mixer on high speed until very stiff peaks form.
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Add Jell-O: Once the egg whites are stiff, whisk in the Jell-O powder until fully blended.
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Combine the Syrup and Egg Mixture: Once the syrup reaches 250°F, remove it from the heat. With the mixer on medium-high speed, slowly pour the syrup into the egg white and Jell-O mixture. Pour very slowly over the course of about 2 minutes.
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Beat the Mixture: Add the vanilla extract and continue beating the mixture until it loses its shine and holds its shape when dropped from a spoon. This usually takes 4 to 6 minutes. If it looks like a puddle on the waxed paper, continue beating for another minute or two and test again.
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Add Nuts (Optional): Once the mixture holds its shape, mix in the chopped nuts (if using).
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Form the Candies: Use the buttered spoons to drop heaping teaspoons or tablespoons of the mixture onto the waxed paper. The buttered spoons will prevent the candy from sticking.
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Cool and Set: Let the candies cool on the waxed paper for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before storing them in an airtight container.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 36 pieces
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Prep time: 25 minutes
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Cook time: 10 minutes
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Total time: 35 minutes (plus cooling time)
Variations
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Different Flavors: Use any flavor of Jell-O powder for a variety of fruity tastes. Popular choices include strawberry, cherry, lime, and orange.
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Nut Variations: Substitute the pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
Storage/Reheating
Store the divinity in an airtight container at room temperature. To keep the pieces from sticking, separate each layer with wax or parchment paper. Keep in a cool, dry place (away from humidity, sunlight, and heat). Divinity will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
FAQs
1. Can I make this candy without a candy thermometer?
While it’s recommended to use a candy thermometer for accuracy, you can test the syrup by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a hard ball, it’s ready.
2. Can I use flavored gelatin instead of Jell-O powder?
Yes, you can use any type of flavored gelatin, but make sure it’s a powdered form, not the instant kind.
3. Can I add food coloring to this recipe?
Yes, you can add food coloring to match the flavor or make them more festive for holidays or special occasions.
4. How do I know when the divinity is done beating?
The divinity is done when it loses its shine and becomes sticky and stiff. You can test by dropping it onto waxed paper – it should hold its shape without spreading.
5. Can I make this divinity in advance?
Yes, divinity stores well and is a great make-ahead treat. Just be sure it’s fully cooled before storing.
Conclusion
No Fail Jell-O Divinity is a fun, colorful, and delicious treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create beautiful, melt-in-your-mouth candies that everyone will love. Whether for Easter, baby showers, or just because, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

No Fail Jell-O Divinity
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes (plus cooling time)
- Yield: 36 pieces
- Category: Candy, Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
No Fail Jell-O Divinity is a colorful and sweet candy with a light, fluffy texture and fruity flavor from Jell-O powder. Perfect for special occasions like Easter and baby showers, this easy-to-make treat will delight both kids and adults. With just a few simple ingredients and a candy thermometer, you can create these melt-in-your-mouth candies every time.
Ingredients
3 cups granulated sugar
¾ cup light corn syrup
¾ cup water
⅛ teaspoon salt
2 egg whites (room temperature)
3 tablespoons Jell-O powder (flavor of your choice)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or other flavor; clear vanilla works best)
1 cup chopped nuts (optional; pecans are commonly used)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Baking Sheets:
Line two large baking sheets with waxed paper. Butter two large spoons and set them aside. -
Cook the Sugar Mixture:
In a 3-quart saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar. Once boiling, stop stirring and continue cooking until the syrup reaches 250°F (hard ball stage). Clip a candy thermometer to the pot, which will beep when the correct temperature is reached. -
Whisk the Egg Whites:
While the syrup is cooking, whisk the egg whites in a heavy-duty mixer on high speed until very stiff peaks form. -
Add Jell-O:
Once the egg whites are stiff, whisk in the Jell-O powder until fully blended. -
Combine Syrup and Egg Mixture:
Once the syrup reaches 250°F, remove it from the heat. With the mixer on medium-high speed, slowly pour the syrup into the egg white and Jell-O mixture, pouring slowly over about 2 minutes. -
Beat the Mixture:
Add vanilla extract and continue beating until the mixture loses its shine and holds its shape when dropped from a spoon (usually takes 4-6 minutes). If it looks too runny, continue beating for another minute or two. -
Add Nuts (Optional):
Once the mixture holds its shape, mix in the chopped nuts (if using). -
Form the Candies:
Use the buttered spoons to drop heaping teaspoons or tablespoons of the mixture onto the waxed paper. -
Cool and Set:
Let the candies cool for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before storing them in an airtight container.
Notes
Storage: Store the divinity in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Use wax or parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Customization: Choose from a variety of Jell-O flavors like strawberry, lime, orange, or cherry. You can also add food coloring for a more festive look.
Candy Thermometer Alternative: If you don’t have a thermometer, test by dropping a small amount of syrup into cold water. If it forms a hard ball, it’s ready.