Microwave Divine Divinity
A rich, sweet, and fluffy candy with nutty crunch, perfect for holiday treats or gifting, combining vanilla and optional walnuts for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart glass measuring cup with handle, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt.
- Microwave on High for 5 minutes.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Cook on High for an additional 6 minutes.
- In a large mixer bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- While beating at low speed, slowly pour the hot syrup into the egg whites.
- Continue beating until the mixture loses its gloss, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Blend in vanilla and nuts, if desired.
- Quickly press the candy mixture into a buttered 9-inch square dish.
- Let stand until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure your measuring cup is microwave-safe and large enough to prevent spills as the mixture bubbles. For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or substitute them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. If you find your egg whites aren't whipping up properly, ensure your mixing bowl is free of any grease or yolk. This recipe can also be made using a double boiler if you prefer not to microwave.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the divinity into small squares for easy serving, and consider drizzling some melted chocolate on top for an extra touch. This candy pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a delightful afternoon snack. For a festive touch, serve it alongside Praline Dream Cookies during holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Once the divinity has set, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating it to maintain its texture. Avoid freezing as it may alter the candy's consistency. For a quick treat, simply enjoy straight from the container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Divine Divinity contains roughly 288 calories, with 1g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1169mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn't my divinity set properly?
If your divinity didn't set, it may be due to undercooking the syrup. Make sure you reach the correct temperature of about 240°F (soft-ball stage) before adding it to the egg whites. Humidity can also affect candy setting, so try making it on a dry day for the best results.
Can I use another type of nut instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with pecans, almonds, or even macadamia nuts for a different flavor. Just chop them coarsely to ensure they mix well into the divinity. Each nut will impart a unique taste, enhancing your homemade candy experience.
How do I know when the egg whites are at stiff peaks?
Stiff peaks are achieved when the egg whites hold their shape firmly without any drooping. You can test this by lifting the beaters from the mixture; if the peaks stand straight up and do not fold over, you're ready to pour in the syrup. This consistency is crucial for a light, airy texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).