Homemade Almond Walnut Cranberry Nougat

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Almond Walnut Cranberry Nougat is a delightful combination of crunchy almonds and walnuts paired with the sweet tanginess of dried cranberries. This chewy and rich nougat makes a perfect treat or homemade gift for loved ones. This guide will show you how to create a delicious nougat with simple ingredients and easy steps.

Ingredients for Almond Walnut Cranberry Nougat

To make this delicious nougat, gather these ingredients:

  • 100 grams almonds
  • 75 grams walnuts
  • 75 grams dried cranberries
  • 125 grams sugar
  • 125 grams honey
  • 1 egg white

Special Instructions for Preparation:

  1. Prepare a small mold or container by lightly oiling it and dusting with icing sugar. This will prevent the nougat from sticking.
  2. Candy Thermometer: Essential for checking the temperature of your sugar syrup, ensuring the nougat reaches the ideal consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Almond Walnut Cranberry Nougat

Step 1: Prepare the Almonds and Walnuts

  • Place the almonds in a small pot, cover with hot water, and cook for 3 minutes. Drain and peel the almonds.
  • In a dry pan over low-medium heat, toast the peeled almonds for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden. Set aside in a small bowl.
  • Repeat this process with the walnuts, toasting them for about 5 minutes. Combine both nuts in a bowl and let them cool.

Step 2: Heat the Sugar and Honey

  • In a small pot, warm the sugar and honey over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble.
  • Use a candy thermometer to monitor the syrup’s temperature. When it reaches 120°C – 130°C (248°F – 266°F), it’s ready. Alternatively, you can test it by dropping a small amount of syrup into cold water—it should form a firm ball.
  • Allow the syrup to cool for about 3 minutes.

Step 3: Whip the Egg White

  • In a large mixing bowl, separate the egg white and beat it with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
  • Gradually pour the warm syrup into the beaten egg white while stirring with a spatula. Once incorporated, switch to a whisk and continue mixing until the egg white and syrup blend completely.

Step 4: Thicken the Mixture

  • Return the mixture to low heat, stirring continuously until it thickens and turns shiny. This process should take approximately 8–10 minutes.

Step 5: Add Nuts and Cranberries

  • Remove the mixture from heat and quickly fold in the almonds, walnuts, and dried cranberries. Mix until the nuts and cranberries are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Shape and Cool the Nougat

  • Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared mold, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  • Allow the nougat to cool at room temperature for several hours until it hardens completely.

Step 7: Cut and Serve

  • Once hardened, transfer the nougat to a cutting board and slice it into rectangular bars.

Tips for Perfect Almond Walnut Cranberry Nougat

  1. Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality nuts and honey will greatly enhance the nougat’s flavor.
  2. Toast the Nuts: Toasting brings out the natural oils and flavors of the almonds and walnuts.
  3. Monitor Temperature: Using a candy thermometer is the most reliable way to achieve the perfect texture.
  4. Storage: Keep the nougat fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Information

Each serving provides:

  • Calories: 248
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 12g (including 1g saturated fat, 6g polyunsaturated fat, 5g monounsaturated fat)
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 30g
  • Sodium: 8mg
  • Potassium: 155mg
  • Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin A (8 IU), Vitamin C (2 mg), Calcium (45 mg), Iron (1 mg)

This homemade Almond Walnut Cranberry Nougat is the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Enjoy as a snack, dessert, or a thoughtful homemade gift wrapped in decorative paper. The combination of almonds, walnuts, and cranberries creates a rich nougat that’s hard to resist. Happy cooking!

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