If you’re looking for a delectable snack that perfectly balances sweetness, nutty flavors, and a chewy texture, then this Almond Walnut Cranberry Nougat is a must-try! This homemade nougat recipe offers a delightful medley of crunchy almonds, toasted walnuts, and tart cranberries, making it a healthy treat for any occasion. Whether you’re snacking at home, gifting to loved ones, or looking for a perfect dessert for special events, this nougat is sure to impress with its gourmet flair.
Ingredients and Their Roles
- 100 grams of almonds: These provide a crunchy texture and a subtle nuttiness, essential for a classic nougat base.
- 75 grams of walnuts: Adding richness and depth, walnuts contribute a distinct flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
- 75 grams of cranberries: The sweet and tart cranberries add vibrant color and a refreshing contrast to the nutty flavors.
- 125 grams of sugar: This is the primary sweetener, responsible for achieving that perfect chewy texture when cooked.
- 125 grams of honey: Besides sweetness, honey brings a floral note and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 egg white: Essential for creating the airy structure of the nougat, egg whites provide stability and help achieve the desired chewy texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Almonds: In a small pot, pour hot water over 100 grams of almonds. Cook for 3 minutes. Remove from heat, using a strainer spoon to separate the almonds. Place them in a bowl, then remove the skins and transfer the peeled almonds to a plate.
- Toast the Almonds: In a pan, toast the skinless almonds over low to medium heat for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden. Be cautious not to overcook. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
- Toast the Walnuts: In the same pan, toast 75 grams of walnuts on low to medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring regularly. Remove from heat and mix with the toasted almonds in the bowl to cool.
- Make the Syrup: In a small pot, combine 125 grams of sugar and 125 grams of honey over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble.
- Prepare the Mold: Lightly oil a mold with cooking spray or brush, then sprinkle icing sugar over it. Set aside.
- Beat the Egg White: In a large bowl, separate the egg white from the yolk. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Check Syrup Temperature: Monitor the syrup until it reaches 120°C – 130°C (248°F – 266°F) on a candy thermometer, or drop a spoonful into a bowl of cold water to test for a solid ball formation. Remove from heat and let cool for about 3 minutes.
- Combine Egg White and Syrup: Slowly pour the egg white into the warm syrup while stirring with a spatula. Switch to a whisk until fully incorporated.
- Cook the Mixture: Return the egg white and syrup mixture to low heat, stirring constantly for about 8-10 minutes until thickened and shiny.
- Add Nuts and Cranberries: Remove from heat and gently fold in the toasted almonds, walnuts, and cranberries until evenly distributed.
- Set the Nougat: Pour the mixture into the prepared mold, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow it to cool at room temperature for a few hours until hardened.
- Slice and Serve: Once set, remove the nougat from the mold and transfer it to a cutting surface. Slice into rectangular pieces for serving.
Why This Recipe Is Loved
This Almond Walnut Cranberry Nougat is a crowd-pleaser, thanks to its delightful combination of flavors and textures. The toasted nuts provide a satisfying crunch, while the chewy nougat offers a delightful mouthfeel. Perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or as a special gift, this recipe is both simple and sophisticated.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Nougat
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality nuts and cranberries make a significant difference in flavor.
- Pre-Peeled Almonds: To save time, consider using peeled and toasted almonds to streamline the process.
- Roast for Extra Flavor: Enhance the taste by roasting nuts before incorporating them into the nougat.
- Honey Selection: Choose a high-quality honey to add depth; options like floral or earthy honey can enhance the overall flavor.
- Storage: Keep your nougat fresh by storing it in a sealed container at room temperature or in the fridge.
- Gifting Idea: Wrap each nougat bar in decorative paper and tie with a ribbon for a personalized touch.
Conclusion: A Sweet Simplicity
Creating your own Almond Walnut Cranberry Nougat at home is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create an irresistible treat that will have you and your guests coming back for more. With its rich flavors, nutty goodness, and healthy ingredients, this nougat is a snack you can feel good about indulging in. Embrace the joy of homemade delights and impress everyone with this stunningly delicious nougat!
