Almond, Walnut, and Cranberry Nougat

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Almond, Walnut, and Cranberry Nougat: A Perfect Sweet Treat for Any Occasion

If you’re looking for a delicious and unique snack, look no further than this Almond, Walnut, and Cranberry Nougat. This delightful treat combines the rich, nutty flavors of almonds and walnuts with the tangy sweetness of dried cranberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, gifting it to loved ones, or simply enjoying it as a satisfying snack, this nougat is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this decadent Almond, Walnut, and Cranberry Nougat, you’ll need just a handful of high-quality ingredients. Each component adds something special to the final product, making this recipe both simple and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 100 grams of almonds – the crunchy base of this nougat, bringing a mild, nutty flavor.
  • 75 grams of walnuts – adding richness and texture with their deep, earthy flavor.
  • 75 grams of dried cranberries – providing a burst of sweetness and tang to balance the richness of the nuts.
  • 125 grams of sugar – to give the nougat a sweet, firm texture once it sets.
  • 125 grams of honey – adding sweetness and a floral note, while helping to bind the nougat together.
  • 1 egg white – for structure, as the egg white helps the nougat set and become light and airy.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Nougat

Making Nougat with Almonds, Walnuts, and Cranberries is a simple yet rewarding process. Here’s how you can create this delicious treat from scratch:

Step 1: Prepare the Nuts

  1. Toast the Almonds: Start by placing the almonds in a small pot and covering them with hot water. Let them cook for about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and strain out the almonds.
  2. Peel the almonds by removing the skins. Once peeled, place the almonds in a pan and toast them over low to medium heat for 5-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent overcooking. Remove from the pan and set aside in a small bowl.
  3. Toast the Walnuts: In the same pan, toast the walnuts for about 5 minutes over low to medium heat, stirring often. Once toasted, remove them from the heat and add them to the bowl with the almonds. Let the nuts cool down.

Step 2: Prepare the Sugar-Honey Syrup

  1. In a small pot, heat the sugar and honey over medium heat, stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the sugar has dissolved completely and the mixture starts to bubble.
  2. Test the Syrup: Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature. When the syrup reaches between 120°C – 130°C (248°F – 266°F), remove the pot from the heat. Alternatively, you can test the syrup by dropping a spoonful into a bowl of cold water; the syrup should form a solid ball when cooled.

Step 3: Beat the Egg White

  1. Separate the egg white from the yolk and place it into a large mixing bowl.
  2. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg white until it forms stiff peaks. This step is crucial for the nougat’s texture.

Step 4: Combine the Syrup and Egg White

  1. Allow the syrup to cool for about 3 minutes before slowly pouring it into the beaten egg whites, stirring continuously with a spatula. Once mixed, switch to a whisk to ensure the egg whites are fully incorporated.
  2. Return the mixture to low heat, stirring constantly for around 8-10 minutes until the nougat thickens and becomes shiny.

Step 5: Mix in the Nuts and Cranberries

  1. Once the mixture has thickened and is shiny, remove it from the heat.
  2. Gently fold in the toasted almonds, walnuts, and dried cranberries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the nougat mixture.

Step 6: Set the Nougat

  1. Prepare a mold by spraying it lightly with oil and dusting it with icing sugar. This will prevent the nougat from sticking.
  2. Transfer the nougat mixture into the prepared mold and press it down evenly with a spatula to smooth the surface.
  3. Allow the nougat to cool to room temperature. Once it has hardened, which can take several hours, remove it from the mold.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

  1. After the nougat has fully set, transfer it to a cutting surface and slice it into rectangular pieces.
  2. Serve and enjoy! These bite-sized pieces make for the perfect sweet treat.

Tips for Perfect Nougat

To make the most of this Almond, Walnut, and Cranberry Nougat, consider these helpful tips:

  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: The quality of your almonds, walnuts, and cranberries directly affects the flavor of the nougat, so opt for the best quality nuts and dried fruit available.
  • Roast the nuts: Toasting the almonds and walnuts before incorporating them into the nougat enhances their flavor, giving the nougat a richer, deeper taste.
  • Choose the right honey: The type of honey you use can impact the flavor of the nougat. Floral or fruity honeys work especially well, adding an additional layer of complexity to the final product.
  • Patience is key: Allow the nougat to cool completely before slicing it to ensure it hardens properly and retains its shape.

Health Benefits of Nougat with Almonds, Walnuts, and Cranberries

While this Nougat with Almonds, Walnuts, and Cranberries is undoubtedly a sweet treat, it also offers some nutritional benefits:

  • Almonds are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and vitamin E, which support heart health and help maintain healthy skin.
  • Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and protein, making them a great choice for improving brain function and reducing inflammation.
  • Cranberries are high in antioxidants, especially vitamin C, and may help support urinary tract health while providing a tangy burst of flavor.
  • Honey offers natural sweetness along with antibacterial properties and various vitamins and minerals.

Perfect for Gifting

This Almond, Walnut, and Cranberry Nougat makes an excellent homemade gift. Once it’s sliced into bars, wrap each piece in decorative paper and tie it with a ribbon for a thoughtful and tasty present. Whether for birthdays, holidays, or just because, this nougat is sure to be a hit with anyone who receives it.

Storage Tips

To keep your nougat fresh and flavorful, follow these simple storage tips:

  • Store the nougat in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’d like to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for longer freshness.
  • Make sure the nougat has fully cooled and hardened before storing to avoid any sticky mess.

This Almond, Walnut, and Cranberry Nougat is the perfect combination of sweet, nutty, and tangy flavors that will delight anyone who tries it. So why not make a batch today and treat yourself or a loved one to a delicious homemade treat?

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