Microwave Divinity Candy
A creamy, sweet microwave divinity candy with nutty crunch, perfect for holiday gift-giving or special treats, appealing to those who love rich, airy confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 3-quart microwave-safe bowl, combine sugar, light corn syrup, and water.
- Cook on high for 8 minutes or until mixture is clear; stir.
- Continue cooking on high for an additional 6 1/2 to 8 minutes or until the syrup reaches 260°F (hard ball stage).
- Remove from microwave and beat egg whites with salt until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually pour the hot syrup into the beaten egg whites, beating constantly.
- Add vanilla and chopped nuts, then beat until the mixture becomes thick and holds its shape.
- Drop by spoonfuls onto waxed paper to cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure your bowl is large enough to prevent overflow during cooking, as the mixture will bubble up. If you prefer, you can substitute the chopped nuts with mini marshmallows for a different texture. Using a candy thermometer is crucial for achieving the hard ball stage precisely. For a flavored twist, consider adding a few drops of almond extract along with the vanilla.
Serving Suggestions
Divinity candy makes a delightful treat for holiday gifting or sharing at parties. It pairs beautifully with a Vanilla Or Chocolate Shake for a sweet snack. Consider serving it alongside a warm beverage like coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy dessert experience. These candies also make great additions to dessert platters alongside other sweets.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover divinity candy in an airtight container at room temperature. To maintain freshness, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can affect the texture. If the candy hardens, allow it to sit at room temperature for a bit to soften before enjoying again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Divinity Candy contains roughly 708 calories, with 13g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1946mg per serving (85% 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 did my divinity candy not set properly?
If your divinity candy didn't set, it may not have reached the correct temperature during cooking. Ensure you use a candy thermometer to check that the syrup reaches 260°F. Additionally, humidity can affect the setting; try making it on a drier day for better results.
Can I make divinity candy ahead of time?
Yes, divinity candy can be made ahead of time. It stores well at room temperature for several days. Just keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from becoming too hard or sticky. This makes it a perfect treat to prepare for holiday gatherings or gifting.
What can I substitute for egg whites in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg-free alternative, you can use aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, as a substitute for egg whites. Use about 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for each egg white. Whip it until it forms stiff peaks, similar to how you would with egg whites, before adding the hot syrup.
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).