This delightful no-bake treat combines sweet, salty, and nutty flavors in a single bite. The Salted Peanut Nougat Cracker Sandwiches are made with creamy caramel nougat, toasted peanuts, and crispy salt crackers, all wrapped in a rich chocolate coating. These bite-sized indulgences are perfect for parties, snack time, or satisfying your sweet tooth. With an easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll have a batch of these decadent treats ready in no time.
Let’s dive into the detailed steps to prepare this irresistible dessert and learn a few tips to make it even better.
Ingredients
For the Peanut Nougat
- 1 cup peanuts (120 g), lightly toasted
- 1 cup sugar (200 g)
- 1 cup cream (33% fat, 200 g)
- A pinch of salt
For the Chocolate Coating
- 120 g chocolate (dark or milk, as per your preference)
- 1 tbsp sunflower oil (15 ml)
Additional Components
- Salt crackers (enough to make sandwiches)
- White chocolate, melted (optional, for decoration)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Peanuts
- Toast the Peanuts: Heat a dry pan over medium heat and toast the peanuts until golden brown and fragrant. Stir occasionally to ensure even toasting.
- Cool: Remove from heat and let the peanuts cool completely. This toasting process enhances their flavor and complements the nougat.
2. Make the Nougat
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Caramelize the Sugar:
- Place 1 cup of sugar in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Allow the sugar to melt without stirring for the first few minutes.
- Once the sugar starts to liquefy at the bottom, gently stir with a heatproof spatula.
- Achieve Amber Color: Continue stirring until the sugar melts completely and turns a rich amber color. Be careful not to burn it.
-
Incorporate the Cream:
- Slowly pour in the cream while stirring continuously. The mixture will bubble and steam vigorously, so take care.
- Stir until the cream and caramel blend into a smooth, thick mixture.
- Add Salt: Stir in a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
- Thicken the Mixture: Cook the nougat for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly but remains pourable.
- Cool: Remove from heat and transfer the nougat to a bowl. Let it cool to room temperature, during which it will firm up slightly.
3. Assemble the Cracker Sandwiches
- Layer the Nougat: Take one salt cracker and spoon a generous amount of the nougat onto it.
- Top with Another Cracker: Gently press another salt cracker on top to form a sandwich.
- Repeat: Continue until all the nougat is used.
- Chill: Arrange the cracker sandwiches on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
4. Melt the Chocolate
- Break the Chocolate: Break 120 g of chocolate into small pieces and place them in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Add Oil: Stir in 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil to help create a smooth and shiny consistency.
- Melt: Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
5. Coat the Sandwiches
- Dip in Chocolate: Take the chilled cracker sandwiches and dip each one into the melted chocolate. Use a fork to lift them out and let any excess chocolate drip off.
- Place on Tray: Arrange the coated sandwiches back on the parchment-lined tray.
- Decorate: Drizzle melted white chocolate on top or sprinkle a pinch of sea salt for a decorative and flavorful touch (optional).
6. Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate: Place the chocolate-coated sandwiches in the fridge for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate sets completely.
- Serve: Once the chocolate is firm, the sandwiches are ready to serve.
Helpful Tips
- Use Quality Chocolate: High-quality dark or milk chocolate will yield the best flavor and texture.
- Control Sweetness: Adjust the amount of salt in the nougat or use dark chocolate to balance the sweetness.
- Storage: Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Variation: Swap salted peanuts with roasted almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
- Cracker Type: Use sturdy salt crackers that can hold up well under the weight of the nougat and chocolate coating.
Substitutions and Variations
- Peanut-Free: Substitute peanuts with cashews or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
- Dark Chocolate Alternative: Use white chocolate for the coating for a sweeter variation.
- Add Crunch: Add a sprinkle of crushed peanuts on top of the melted chocolate for added texture.
- Flavor the Caramel: Infuse the cream with vanilla or a dash of cinnamon before adding it to the caramelized sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and choose dairy-free chocolate for the coating.
2. How do I prevent the sugar from burning?
Use medium heat and keep a close watch while caramelizing the sugar. Stir gently as it starts to melt to avoid hot spots.
3. Can I freeze these treats?
Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap each cracker sandwich individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Conclusion
Salted Peanut Nougat Cracker Sandwiches are the perfect balance of salty and sweet, with a delightful crunch and creamy nougat filling. The chocolate coating adds richness and indulgence, making these snacks an ideal treat for any occasion. Quick to prepare and utterly delicious, these sandwiches will surely become a household favorite!