Microwave Divinity Candy

The Microwave Divinity Candy is a delightful treat that will elevate any celebration! This heavenly candy is perfect for holidays, parties, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. Its fluffy texture and delightful sweetness make it a memorable addition to any dessert table. Easy to prepare, this candy is sure to impress your friends and family with its unique flavor and beautiful appearance.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This divinity candy comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic last-minute treat.
• Versatile Flavor: The addition of vanilla and optional pecans allows you to customize the taste to your liking.
• Perfect for Gifting: Packaged beautifully, this candy makes an excellent gift for friends and loved ones during special occasions.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its sweet, chewy texture, it’s sure to be a hit at gatherings and celebrations.
• Holiday Favorite: This recipe is especially loved during the holiday season, bringing cheer and sweetness.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Microwave Divinity Candy, having the right tools on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Microwave
• Large glass measuring cup
• Electric mixer
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Teaspoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Electric Mixer: Essential for beating egg whites to stiff peaks efficiently.
• Large Glass Measuring Cup: Allows for easy mixing and monitoring of syrup temperatures without spills.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking, making it easy to remove the candy once set.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

• 2 egg whites (room temperature)
• 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup water
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup finely chopped pecans (optional)
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

How to Make Microwave Divinity Candy

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Butter two teaspoons for scooping the candy later.

Step 2: Room Temperature Egg Whites

Allow the egg whites to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the best texture when whipping.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Microwave

In a large microwave-safe glass measuring cup, combine the granulated sugar, water, light corn syrup, and salt. Heat this mixture in the microwave on high for about four minutes, then stir.

Step 4: Cook Until Hard Ball Stage

Continue cooking the syrup in two-minute increments, stirring in between until it reaches the hard ball stage of 260°F. Once it hits around 250°F, reduce cooking increments to one minute each while checking the temperature frequently.

Step 5: Beat Egg Whites

When your syrup is nearly done (about four minutes remaining or when it reaches between 240°F and 250°F), start beating the egg whites on medium speed until they form stiff peaks. The peaks should stand straight up.

Step 6: Incorporate Hot Syrup

Increase the mixer speed to high while slowly pouring in the hot syrup carefully. It’s important to do this gradually to avoid any splatters or burns.

Step 7: Beat Until Thickened

Continue beating the mixture for about 15 to 20 minutes until it loses its gloss and holds its shape. You can test by dropping a spoonful onto parchment paper; if it holds its shape, it’s ready!

Step 8: Add Pecans and Vanilla

Quickly stir in the optional pecans and vanilla extract. Mix well until evenly distributed throughout the candy mixture.

Step 9: Scoop onto Parchment

Using your buttered teaspoons, scoop out rounded teaspoons of the candy mixture and drop them onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat until all of your candy has been scooped out.

Step 10: Let It Set

Allow your divinity candy to stand at room temperature until dry to the touch. This usually takes overnight but can vary based on humidity levels.

Enjoy sharing this delicious Microwave Divinity Candy with friends and family!

How to Serve Microwave Divinity Candy

Microwave Divinity Candy is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its sweet and chewy texture makes it a versatile dessert for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your candy experience.

Pair with Coffee

• Enjoy Microwave Divinity Candy alongside a rich cup of coffee. The sweetness of the candy complements the bold flavors of the brew perfectly.

Gift in Decorative Boxes

• Package the divinity candy in decorative boxes or tins. This makes for an excellent homemade gift during holidays or special occasions.

Add to Dessert Platters

• Include Microwave Divinity Candy on dessert platters at gatherings. Its unique texture and appearance will catch the eye of your guests.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Pair the candy with fresh fruit like strawberries or oranges. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the divinity, creating a refreshing combination.

Top Ice Cream

• Crumble pieces of divinity candy over vanilla or chocolate ice cream. This adds a sweet crunch and elevates your dessert to the next level.

Use as Cake Toppers

• Decorate cakes with bits of divinity candy for an elegant touch. This adds both flavor and visual appeal to your baked goods.

How to Perfect Microwave Divinity Candy

To ensure your Microwave Divinity Candy turns out perfectly, follow these helpful tips that will guide you through the process effortlessly.

• Use Room Temperature Egg Whites: Room temperature egg whites whip better, resulting in a fluffier texture for your candy.
• Monitor Temperature Closely: Keep an eye on the syrup temperature as it cooks. Accurate readings ensure you reach that perfect hard ball stage.
• Beat Egg Whites Properly: Whip egg whites until they form stiff peaks before adding syrup. This helps maintain structure as the mixture cools.
• Work Quickly: Once your mixture is ready, scoop it onto parchment paper promptly. The candy sets quickly, so speed is key!
• Store Correctly: Keep Microwave Divinity Candy in an airtight container to prevent it from becoming sticky or losing freshness.
• Experiment with Mix-ins: Try adding different nuts or dried fruits for variety. This not only enhances flavor but also adds delightful textures.

Best Side Dishes for Microwave Divinity Candy

When serving Microwave Divinity Candy, consider pairing it with these delicious side dishes that complement its sweetness and enhance any gathering.

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie and cheddar provides a savory balance to the sweet candy.
2. Nut Medley: A mix of roasted nuts offers crunch and saltiness that contrast beautifully with the divinity’s softness.
3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These add a touch of elegance and make a perfect pairing with sweet treats.
4. Mini Fruit Tarts: Their fruity filling serves as a refreshing counterpart to sugary confections.
5. Caramel Popcorn: Sweet and crunchy popcorn creates a fun texture contrast when served alongside divinity candy.
6. Yogurt Parfaits: Layering yogurt with fruits and granola can provide a lighter option that balances out richer desserts.
7. Homemade Biscotti: These crunchy cookies make an excellent accompaniment for dipping into coffee or tea alongside your sweet treats.
8. Pecan Pie Bites: Small bites bring nutty flavors that echo those found in divinity while providing variety on the dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Microwave Divinity Candy, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping Room Temperature Egg Whites: Starting with cold egg whites can result in poor volume. Always allow them to reach room temperature before whipping.
• Not Monitoring Syrup Temperature: If you don’t check the syrup’s temperature carefully, it may not reach the hard ball stage. Use a candy thermometer for precision.
• Overbeating the Mixture: Beating the candy mixture too long can cause it to become dry and crumbly. Stop when it loses its gloss and holds its shape.
• Neglecting Parchment Paper: Forgetting to line your baking sheet can lead to a sticky mess. Always use parchment paper for easy removal of the candy.
• Ignoring Storage Conditions: Failing to store divinity properly can lead to unwanted texture changes. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from moisture.

Freezing Microwave Divinity Candy

• Place in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Layer parchment paper between pieces to prevent sticking.

Reheating Microwave Divinity Candy

• Oven: Preheat to 200°F and warm for about 5-10 minutes until slightly soft.
• Microwave: Use low power in 10-second bursts, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered pan on low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Microwave Divinity Candy?

Microwave Divinity Candy is a sweet, chewy treat made primarily from egg whites and sugar, cooked quickly using a microwave.

How do I achieve stiff peaks with egg whites?

To get stiff peaks, beat egg whites until they stand straight up when the beater is lifted. Make sure they’re at room temperature for best results.

Can I customize my Microwave Divinity Candy?

Absolutely! You can add different nuts or mix-ins like dried fruit or chocolate chips according to your taste preferences.

How should I store leftover divinity candy?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This helps maintain its texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Microwave Divinity Candy is a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. Its sweet, chewy texture makes it perfect for sharing with loved ones during celebrations or holidays. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite nuts or flavors, making it uniquely yours!

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