This classic homemade nougat combines perfectly roasted almonds with a silky honey-sugar meringue to create an authentic confection that’s been delighting families for generations. With its chewy texture and rich almond flavor, this festive treat makes the perfect gift or centerpiece for your holiday celebrations, and it’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
Ingredients
- 200g (7 oz) raw almonds
- 1 large egg white, at room temperature
- 125g (⅔ cup) granulated sugar
- 125g (⅓ cup + 2 tablespoons) honey
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Almonds
- Bring a large pot of water to boil and add the raw almonds. Boil for exactly 3 minutes to loosen the skins.
- Drain the almonds immediately and rinse with cold water. While still warm, gently squeeze each almond to remove the brown skin – they should slip off easily.
- Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F). Spread the blanched almonds on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast the almonds for 10-15 minutes until they’re golden brown and fragrant. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning. Set aside to cool.
Making the Nougat Base
- In a clean, dry mixing bowl, whisk the egg white using an electric mixer until it forms stiff, glossy peaks. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Set aside.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar and honey over low heat. Stir gently until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Continue cooking the sugar-honey mixture over low heat without stirring until it reaches the soft ball stage (approximately 115°C/240°F on a candy thermometer).
Combining the Mixture
- Remove the sugar mixture from heat and immediately begin pouring it in a thin, steady stream into the whipped egg white while continuing to beat with the electric mixer.
- Continue beating for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is well combined and has a glossy, thick consistency.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over very low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until everything is well mixed and slightly thickened.
Finishing the Nougat
- Remove from heat and quickly fold in the roasted almonds, mixing thoroughly to distribute them evenly throughout the nougat.
- Working quickly, pour the hot nougat mixture into a lined 8×8 inch pan or silicone molds, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 12 hours until firm and set.
- Remove from the mold and cut into desired shapes using a sharp knife. Store in an airtight container.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 12 hours
Total Time: 12 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 16-20 pieces
Nutrition: Approximately 120 calories per piece, 3g protein, 18g carbohydrates, 5g fat
Why This Nougat Recipe is Special
This traditional nougat recipe creates an authentic confection that surpasses commercial varieties in both flavor and texture. The careful blanching and roasting of almonds develops deep, nutty flavors while ensuring the perfect crunch that contrasts beautifully with the chewy nougat base. Using real honey instead of corn syrup provides natural sweetness with complex floral notes that enhance the overall taste profile. The meringue-based approach creates the characteristic chewy yet tender texture that defines quality nougat, while the precise temperature control ensures the proper consistency. This homemade version contains no artificial preservatives or additives, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought options. Almonds provide healthy fats, protein, vitamin E, and magnesium, making this treat more nutritious than many other holiday confections. The recipe’s simplicity allows for customization with different nuts or flavoring extracts, while the impressive presentation makes it perfect for gift-giving during the holiday season. The long refrigeration time allows flavors to meld and develop, creating a confection that improves with time and can be made well in advance of celebrations.