Simple Nougat Bars: A Delightful Homemade Treat

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Nougat bars, with their soft, chewy texture and sweet, nutty flavor, are a classic confection enjoyed by many. Making nougat at home might seem daunting, but with this simple recipe, you can create delicious nougat bars that rival those found in candy shops. Perfect for a sweet snack, a homemade gift, or as a special treat during the holidays, these nougat bars are sure to impress.

The Joy of Homemade Nougat

Homemade nougat bars offer a wonderful combination of textures and flavors. The base is typically made with honey, sugar, and egg whites, creating a light and fluffy yet chewy texture. Nuts like almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts are added for a delightful crunch and richness. This simple recipe is a great introduction to the art of candy making and provides a satisfyingly sweet result.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 large egg whites, at room temperature
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups mixed nuts (such as almonds, pistachios, and hazelnuts), toasted and roughly chopped
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

Preparing the Nougat:

  1. Prepare Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
  2. Cook Sugar and Honey: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, honey, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Continue to cook, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 260°F (126°C) on a candy thermometer.

Making the Meringue:

  1. Beat Egg Whites: While the sugar mixture is cooking, beat the egg whites and salt in a stand mixer until stiff peaks form.
  2. Combine with Sugar Syrup: Once the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature, slowly pour it into the beaten egg whites while the mixer is running. Add vanilla extract and beat for about 5 minutes, until the mixture is thick and glossy.

Adding Nuts and Setting:

  1. Fold in Nuts: Gently fold in the toasted nuts with a spatula.
  2. Transfer to Pan: Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  3. Let Set: Allow the nougat to set at room temperature, uncovered, for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Cutting and Serving:

  1. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Dust the top of the set nougat with powdered sugar.
  2. Slice: Lift the nougat out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into bars or squares with a sharp knife.
  3. Enjoy: Serve the nougat bars as a delightful homemade candy.

Conclusion

Making your nougat bars is a rewarding and tasty endeavor. This simple nougat bar recipe is a great way to create a homemade version of the classic candy, complete with the rich flavors and satisfying textures of traditional nougat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to candy making, these nougat bars are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. So why wait? Start cooking and enjoy the sweet rewards!

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