Nut and Fruit Nougat Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups mixed nuts (such as almonds, pistachios, and cashews), lightly toasted
- 1 cup dried cranberries or other dried fruits
- Edible wafer paper (optional, for lining the pan)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan:
Begin by lining a 9×13 inch baking dish with edible wafer paper. If you don’t have wafer paper, line the dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Create the Sugar Mixture:
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, light corn syrup, honey, and water. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves. Once dissolved, attach a candy thermometer to the pan. Continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C).
3. Whisk the Egg Whites:
While the sugar mixture is heating, place the egg whites and salt in a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat on medium speed until soft peaks form.
4. Combine the Mixtures:
When the sugar mixture reaches 300°F, carefully and slowly pour it into the beaten egg whites while the mixer is running on medium speed. Take extreme caution as the sugar mixture will be very hot. Increase the mixer speed to high and continue to whisk until the nougat becomes thick, glossy, and the mixing bowl feels cool to the touch. This process should take about 8-10 minutes.
5. Incorporate the Flavorings and Nuts:
Add the vanilla extract to the mixture and beat until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the toasted mixed nuts and dried cranberries (or other dried fruits) until they are evenly distributed throughout the nougat.
6. Spread the Nougat:
Quickly transfer the nougat into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a smooth surface.
7. Set and Slice:
Allow the nougat to cool completely at room temperature for at least 2 hours. Once the nougat is fully set, carefully remove it from the pan and cut it into bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your homemade nut and fruit nougat as a delightful treat or package it attractively for gifting.