Nougat is a sugary dessert that is usually found in candy bars as a thin layer, or as fudge with a variety of flavors and textures added into it. Nougat is also simple to make and can even be eaten on its own, or used to make homemade candy bars.
Here are the ingredients that you will need to make nougat:
- 1 cup sugar
- ¾ cup water
- 2 egg whites
- ½ cup nut butter (blend ¾ cup nuts microwaved 30-60 seconds with 2 tablespoons oil)
- 1 cup chopped nuts or nut brittle
- 1 teaspoon salt
Here are the directions to make the nougat:
First, you need to pour the sugar and water into a small saucepan and heat on medium-low heat, swirling (not stirring) the two around to ensure an even mixture. It’s important to turn on the heat in advance of putting the ingredients inside of the saucepan, as the time it takes the heat to reach the right temperature can be a long time.
In the meantime, whisk the egg whites to medium-soft peaks. If you are using a stand mixer, then leave it on the lowest setting to keep the mixture moving.
Then, continue monitoring the sugar and water mixture until it hits a softball stage, which is about 235F. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature, but it should be at least this temperature, not any lower.
Then, remove the saucepan from the heat and very carefully pour it into the whipping egg whites. You can slowly pour the mixture into the egg whites, you don’t need to pour it out all at once. If you need help with this stage, don’t hesitate to ask someone.
Next, immediately turn the mixer speed up to high. Let the egg white whip until the temperature cools. You can pause the mixer to check, but make sure the bowl isn’t even warm. Then remove the bowl, and, using a spatula, fold the whites into the bowl with the nut butter, salt and any inclusions you want to add.
Finally, lay the mixture out and cut it into rectangles or squares, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and snack on it to your heart’s desire.
