How to Make a French Nougat Dessert
French nougat, also known as "torrone" in Italy, is a delightful candy made primarily from honey, sugar, and nuts. This chewy treat is often enjoyed as a dessert and makes for a perfect gift or special occasion indulgence. If you’re ready to dive into the world of this classic confection, follow this simple guide on how to make a French nougat dessert.
Ingredients Required
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of honey
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of water
- 2 egg whites (room temperature)
- 2 cups of chopped nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Edible wafer paper (optional, for presentation)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment
Start by preparing a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or edible wafer paper. This will help prevent the nougat from sticking. If you don't have wafer paper, parchment paper will work just fine.
Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, granulated sugar, and water. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves. Then, bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, aiming for a range of 250°F to 260°F, which is the hard ball stage.
Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
While the sugar mixture is heating, take a clean mixing bowl and beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed. Once you have soft peaks, add a pinch of salt and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Once the sugar mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the heat. Carefully pour the hot sugar mixture into the whipped egg whites while continuously mixing on low speed. Be cautious to avoid any splashes. Gradually increase the speed to medium and then high, mixing until the nougat becomes thick and glossy.
Step 5: Add Nuts and Flavoring
Fold in your choice of chopped nuts and vanilla extract into the nougat mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed. The mixture should be thick and ready for molding.
Step 6: Set the Nougat
Spoon the nougat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly to your desired thickness, using a spatula. You can also layer another piece of wafer paper on top if desired. Let it cool at room temperature for several hours, or overnight, until firm.
Step 7: Cut and Serve
Once the nougat is set, remove it from the pan, and peel off the parchment or wafer paper. Use a sharp knife to cut the nougat into squares or rectangles. Wrap them individually in wax paper for easy serving or gifting.
Storage Tips
Store your homemade nougat in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Properly stored, it can last for up to two weeks. Enjoy this delicious French nougat dessert as a sweet treat or treat your loved ones to a lovely handmade gift.
Final Thoughts
Making French nougat is a fun and rewarding kitchen project that results in a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a candy that’s both beautiful and delicious. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different nuts or flavorings to make it your own!