Homemade Nougat with Hazelnuts and Almonds
This homemade nougat is a delicious treat that combines honey, sugar, and a mix of roasted nuts, creating a chewy and crunchy candy. It’s perfect for serving alongside tea, gifting during the holidays, or adding as a topping for desserts. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- ½ cup (200g) honey
- ¾ cup (125g) sugar
- 1 large egg white
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup (120g) roasted hazelnuts
- ½ cup (60g) roasted blanched almonds
- Vegetable oil (for greasing)
- Parchment paper (for lining the mold)
Directions:
Prepare the Mold:
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Grease and Line Mold:
Grease a 26 × 15 cm (10.2 × 5.9 inches) mold with vegetable oil and line it with parchment paper. Set aside.
Cook the Honey and Sugar:
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Combine Honey and Sugar:
In a saucepan, combine ½ cup honey and ¾ cup sugar. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved and the mixture becomes smooth.
Beat the Egg White:
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Whisk Egg White:
In a separate bowl, beat 1 egg white with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Combine Egg White with Honey Mixture:
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Add Egg White to Honey Mixture:
Turn off the heat under the honey mixture and gradually add the beaten egg white. Stir quickly to incorporate without cooking the egg white.
Cook the Mixture:
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Cook the Nougat Mixture:
Place the saucepan back over very low heat. Stir continuously for 20-25 minutes until the mixture thickens. To test, drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water. If it forms a gum-like consistency, it’s ready.
Add the Nuts:
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Incorporate Nuts:
Stir in the roasted hazelnuts and roasted blanched almonds until well mixed.
Shape the Nougat:
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Transfer to Mold:
Grease your hands with vegetable oil and press the nougat mixture into the prepared mold. Flatten it gently to an even layer.
Let the Nougat Set:
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Set and Cool:
Cover the mold and let it rest at room temperature for 2 hours to set.
Serve and Enjoy:
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Cut and Serve:
Once set, remove the nougat from the mold and cut it into small pieces.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with tea or coffee as a delightful afternoon treat.
- Add to a charcuterie board by cutting it into bite-sized pieces.
- Gift-wrap small pieces in parchment paper for a homemade holiday gift.
- Top vanilla ice cream or yogurt with nougat for added texture and sweetness.
- Include in a dessert platter at parties or gatherings.
Cooking Tips:
- Use a candy thermometer if you have one to ensure the mixture reaches the right consistency.
- Stir constantly while cooking to prevent the honey mixture from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Be quick when adding the egg white to the honey mixture to avoid scrambling the egg.
- Grease your hands with oil when handling the nougat to prevent it from sticking.
- For a smoother texture, you can chop the roasted nuts finely before mixing them into the nougat.
This Homemade Nougat with Hazelnuts and Almonds is a sweet and crunchy treat that is sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of tea or give it as a thoughtful gift, it’s sure to be a hit!