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Microwave Divinity Candy Recipe

4.9 from 107 reviews

This Microwave Divinity Candy recipe offers a quick and easy way to make the classic, fluffy, and sweet treat using just your microwave. With its light and airy texture, combined with a hint of vanilla and optional crunchy pecans, this homemade divinity candy is perfect for festive occasions or whenever you crave a nostalgic candy treat that sets perfectly at room temperature.

Ingredients

Scale

Divinity Candy 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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and butter two teaspoons to prevent sticking.
  2. Room Temperature Egg Whites: Let the egg whites sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure they whip up properly.
  3. Heat Syrup Mixture: In a microwave-safe glass measuring cup, combine granulated sugar, water, light corn syrup, and salt. Heat on high for about 4 minutes, then stir.
  4. Monitor Temperature: Continue heating in short increments, stirring and watching the temperature until it reaches 260°F, the hard ball stage critical for proper candy texture.
  5. Whip Egg Whites: While the syrup is heating, beat the egg whites on medium speed until stiff peaks form, indicating they are fully aerated and ready.
  6. Combine Syrup and Egg Whites: Gradually pour the hot syrup into the beaten egg whites while mixing on high speed to ensure even incorporation without cooking the egg whites.
  7. Beat Until Set: Continue beating the mixture for another 15-20 minutes until it loses its glossy sheen and holds its shape, which ensures the right candy consistency.
  8. Add Pecans and Vanilla: Quickly stir in the finely chopped pecans and vanilla extract for flavor and texture before the mixture begins to set.
  9. Scoop and Set: Using the buttered teaspoons, scoop rounded spoonfuls of the candy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and allow them to dry at room temperature until completely set, generally a few hours.

Notes

  • Ensure egg whites are at room temperature to achieve maximum volume when beaten.
  • Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature monitoring to reach the hard ball stage (260°F).
  • Do not overbeat the egg whites before adding syrup; stiff peaks are needed but they should still be soft enough to incorporate syrup.
  • Work quickly when adding pecans and vanilla to avoid the mixture setting prematurely.
  • Allow candies to set completely at room temperature; avoid refrigerating as it may affect texture.
  • Optional pecans add crunch but can be omitted for a nut-free version.

Keywords: Divinity candy, microwave candy, homemade candy, egg white candy, pecan candy, holiday candy, old-fashioned candy