Double Boiler Question

[just plain dave]

I am going to attempt making divinity. The recipe calls for bringing the mixture to 266 degrees. Someone told me that in order not to burn the mixture I should use a double boiler. Is it possible to bring the mixture to this temperature in a double boiler??? If not, is it better to use a pot made of aluminum, stainless, or glass?

Thanks,
JPD

[KYHeirloomer]

Hi, Dave,

Welcome to the forum.

I don't see how you can reach temperatures higher than 212F in a double boiler. That's the temperature of boiling water. And, while you might increase that a couple of points due to the slight steam-under-pressure syndrome, I doubt it would go near as high as 266.

I would use a candy thermometer, and stir constantly, to avoid burning.

As to pot material, it likely doesn't matter much. Personally, I tossed my aluminum pots long ago. I would suggest either stainless or coated-cast iron for this purpose. If you still own one, nothing wrong with glass, either.

[just plain dave]

Thanks for the reply. I didn't think it would be possible to get much above 212 in a double boiler, but someone insisted they had seen it done. I do have a Pyrex glass double boiler so I'll just use the bottom pot.

Life is good, have a great day,
JPD