Indulge in the timeless sweetness of homemade nougat bars, a perfect balance of soft, chewy nougat and crunchy nuts. These bars are an irresistible treat, made with a delightful combination of honey, sugar, and egg whites, folded with roasted nuts. Whether for a special occasion or as a snack, these nougat bars are sure to impress your taste buds and loved ones alike.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup water
- 2 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups roasted almonds (or your preferred nuts: pistachios, hazelnuts, or peanuts)
- 1 cup dried fruits (optional, for a fruity twist)
- Edible wafer paper (optional, for lining)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan:
- Line a square or rectangular baking pan with parchment paper or edible wafer paper. Set aside.
- Heat the Sugar and Honey:
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, honey, and water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
- Continue to cook without stirring until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer (hard crack stage).
- Whip the Egg Whites:
- While the sugar mixture is cooking, whip the egg whites in a stand mixer (or with a hand mixer) until soft peaks form. Add a pinch of salt for stability.
- Combine Egg Whites and Sugar Syrup:
- Once the sugar syrup reaches the desired temperature, carefully and slowly drizzle it into the whipped egg whites while continuing to beat on low speed. Be cautious to avoid splattering hot syrup.
- Gradually increase the mixer speed to medium-high and continue whipping the mixture until it becomes thick, glossy, and holds stiff peaks. This process takes about 5-8 minutes.
- Add Flavorings and Nuts:
- Fold in the vanilla extract, roasted nuts, and any optional dried fruits by hand, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the nougat mixture.
- Shape and Set:
- Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to smooth the surface. If using wafer paper, place another layer of wafer on top.
- Allow the nougat to cool and set at room temperature for at least 2-3 hours, or until firm.
- Slice and Serve:
- Once fully set, use a sharp knife to cut the nougat into bars or bite-sized pieces.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Enjoy the chewy, nutty, and slightly sweet flavor of these homemade nougat bars!