A process of producing crystal malt in which a batch of malted grain or germinated malt having a first moisture content is provided. The batch is heated by mircowaving or steaming such that at least 85% of the batch saccharifies. During heating, the first moisture content is reduced to a second moisture content. Embodiments of a batch of crystal malt are also provided. The batch of crystal malt includes at least 90% crystallized malt kernels. Further, the batch of crystal malt contains less than 50 ppb of 4-methylimidazole (4-MeI).