Make Tootsie Rolls Using the Microwave

Making tootsie rolls at home can be very challenging, with or without the microwave. Be prepared for some kneading...(and you thought that was just for bread!)

Ingredients

 * 1 oz. square unsweetened chocolate
 * 1 Tbsp butter
 * 1/4 cup dark corn syrup
 * 1/2 tsp vanilla
 * 1 1/3 cups sifted powdered sugar
 * 6 Tbsps instant nonfat milk powder
 * 1/2 cup peanut butter (optional)
 * If you have a peanut allergy, try almond or sunflower seed butter.

Steps

 * 1)  [[Image:Butter_Chocolate_701.jpg|thumb|Butter and Unsweetened chocolate]]Put the chocolate and the butter in a microwavable bowl or a larger microwave-safe measuring cup.
 * 2)  [[Image:Butter_Chocolate_2_895.jpg|thumb|Melting chocolate and butter]]Microwave uncovered at high power, stirring every 20 or 30 seconds to be sure that everything melts without burning.
 * 3)  Stir in corn syrup, vanilla and peanut butter.
 * 4)  Cook for one minute at high power.
 * 5)  Remove from microwave and mix in the powdered sugar.
 * 6)  Add the instant milk powder and stir thoroughly.
 * 7)  Sprinkle the wax paper with some powdered sugar.
 * 8)  [[Image:Tootsie_roll_mixture_4_589.jpg|thumb|Ready to knead]]Turn the mixture out onto waxed paper.
 * 9)  [[Image:Tootsie_roll_mixture_5_741.jpg|thumb|Tootsie Rolls in the making]]Knead the candy until stiff.
 * 10) * If you need to, add as much powdered sugar as needed to form stiff, pliable dough.
 * 11)  Divide candy into several workable parts. You want the pieces to be able to fit in your hand to be sure they are completely kneaded.
 * 12)  Roll each part into thinner strips. This is extremely rich, so smaller is better.
 * 13) * Alternatively, try making them into balls like Milk Duds!
 * 14)  Sprinkle the 'tootsie rolls' lightly with the powdered sugar.
 * 15)  Wrap them up individually in wax paper.
 * 16)  Refrigerate to set.

Related Tips and Steps

 * How to Make Tootsie Rolls
 * How to Make Kitty Litter Cake
 * How to Make Gummy Bears
 * How to Make Candy Sushi

Sources and Citations

 * Original recipe found at About.com