Soft Almond Nougat with Dark Chocolate

Soft almond nougat with dark chocolate is a sweet treat that melts in your mouth. The chewy texture of the nougat, combined with the richness of dark chocolate and the crunch of slivered almonds, creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you are looking for a snack, a homemade gift, or something to satisfy your sweet tooth, this treat is sure to impress.

Behind the Recipe

This soft almond nougat recipe brings together simple ingredients that have stood the test of time. It’s a nod to traditional confections, but with a twist, thanks to the dark chocolate that adds a touch of richness. If you’ve ever had almond nougat, you’ll know that its combination of chewy, nutty, and slightly sweet flavors is absolutely irresistible.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Almond nougat is often associated with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, where it has been enjoyed for centuries. Its origin dates back to the ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean, where nuts and honey were combined to make a sweet treat. Today, it is loved around the world, especially during the holiday season. The addition of dark chocolate adds a modern twist to this classic.

Why You’ll Love Soft Almond Nougat with Dark Chocolate

This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of textures and flavors. The chewy nougat paired with crunchy almonds and rich chocolate creates a delightful contrast in every bite.

Versatile: You can adjust the sweetness and the ratio of almonds to nougat to suit your preferences.

Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients, this recipe is easy to make without breaking the bank.

Quick and Easy: While it requires a little patience as it cools, the process is straightforward and doesn’t take long.

Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or dried fruits to personalize the flavor.

Crowd-Pleasing: This treat is perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a homemade gift.

Make-Ahead Friendly: It can be made ahead and stored for days, making it a convenient option.

Great for Leftovers: Leftover nougat can easily be stored and enjoyed later.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use high-quality dark chocolate: The richness of the chocolate makes a big difference in the flavor.
• Let the nougat cool completely: This ensures it firms up properly, giving it that perfect chewy texture.
• Try different nuts: While almonds are traditional, hazelnuts, pistachios, or walnuts can also be great options.
• Work quickly when handling hot sugar syrup: It cools fast, so be prepared when it’s time to combine it with the other ingredients.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Making almond nougat requires only a few kitchen tools, but they’re essential for the best results.

Candy thermometer: To ensure the sugar syrup reaches the right temperature for the perfect texture.

Mixing bowl: To combine the ingredients before setting them in the pan.

Spatula: For mixing the nougat and chocolate mixture.

Parchment paper: To line the pan and prevent the nougat from sticking.

Ingredients in Soft Almond Nougat with Dark Chocolate

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients that make up this delectable treat:

1. Almonds: 1 cup slivered almonds, toasted Adds crunch and flavor, complementing the chewy nougat texture.
2. Honey: 1/2 cup – Provides sweetness and helps bind the nougat together.
3. Sugar: 1 cup – A key ingredient in making the nougat’s chewy texture.
4. Water: 1/4 cup – Used to dissolve the sugar and make the syrup.
5. Egg whites: 2 – These provide structure and create the light, airy texture of the nougat.
6. Dark chocolate: 100g – Adds a rich, decadent coating that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the nougat.
7. Vanilla extract: 1 tsp – Adds a touch of warmth to the overall flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Almonds: You can substitute almonds with hazelnuts or pistachios for a different flavor.
• Honey: Maple syrup can be used if you prefer a different type of sweetener.
• Egg whites: Aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) can be used as a vegan alternative to egg whites.
• Dark chocolate: Milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter, creamier result.

Ingredient Spotlight

Almonds: Almonds bring both texture and flavor to this recipe. They are slightly sweet and nutty, adding crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth nougat and dark chocolate. Whether raw, roasted, or slivered, almonds elevate this treat to the next level.

Instructions for Making Soft Almond Nougat with Dark Chocolate

Making almond nougat with dark chocolate is a fun and rewarding experience. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Line a baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine honey, sugar, and water. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves. Insert a candy thermometer and cook until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C).
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. This will give the nougat its light, airy texture.
4. Assemble the Dish: Once the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature, pour it carefully into the beaten egg whites while continuously mixing. Continue mixing until the nougat is thick and glossy.
5. Cook to Perfection: Stir in the toasted almonds and vanilla extract. Spread the nougat mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing it out with a spatula.
6. Finishing Touches: Melt the dark chocolate and drizzle it over the top of the nougat. Allow the chocolate to set and harden.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the nougat has cooled completely, cut it into squares or bars and enjoy!

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The soft, chewy nougat is balanced perfectly by the crunchy almonds, while the dark chocolate adds a rich, slightly bitter contrast. Each bite delivers a smooth texture that melts in your mouth, followed by a delightful crunch from the almonds. The honey and vanilla provide a gentle sweetness that ties everything together, creating a treat that’s not too sweet but just right.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Work quickly with the sugar syrup once it reaches the right temperature, it can harden fast.
• Don’t skip toasting the almonds. The extra step adds a deep, roasted flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• If you want your nougat to be extra smooth, make sure to mix the sugar syrup and egg whites thoroughly.

What to Avoid

• Not cooling the nougat enough: If you try to cut it before it’s completely cooled, it will be too sticky and hard to handle.
• Overheating the sugar syrup: If the sugar syrup gets too hot, it may become too hard and create a brittle nougat.
• Using too much chocolate: A light drizzle is all you need to enhance the flavor without overpowering the nougat.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 190
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can make this nougat ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to a week. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap it tightly before storing it.

How to Serve Soft Almond Nougat with Dark Chocolate

Serve this soft almond nougat as a delightful after-dinner treat, a homemade gift, or a sweet snack to enjoy with your afternoon coffee. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or a glass of dessert wine.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftover almond nougat can be chopped up and used in baked goods like cookies or cakes. You can also melt it and drizzle it over ice cream or yogurt for an indulgent treat.

Additional Tips

• If you find the nougat a little too chewy, you can adjust the cooking time of the sugar syrup to get the texture just right.
• Try adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins to the nougat for extra flavor and texture.

Make It a Showstopper

For a visually stunning presentation, place your nougat on a decorative serving plate and drizzle a little extra melted chocolate over the top. Garnish with more slivered almonds or a sprinkle of sea salt for added contrast.

Variations to Try

• Chocolate-coated nougat: Dip the entire bar of nougat in chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
• Nut-free nougat: Make a nut-free version by replacing the almonds with a different filling like puffed rice.
• Add dried fruits: Raisins, cranberries, or apricots would add a wonderful chewy texture to the nougat.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this nougat without a candy thermometer?
A1: It’s best to use a candy thermometer for accuracy, but if you don’t have one, you can test the syrup by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it’s ready.

Q2: How do I know when the nougat is fully set?
A2: The nougat will firm up once it has cooled completely, and the chocolate will harden. It should be easy to cut into squares or bars.

Conclusion

Trust me, this soft almond nougat with dark chocolate is worth every bite. The chewy nougat, crunchy almonds, and rich dark chocolate make for a heavenly treat. Whether you’re enjoying it yourself or sharing it with others, it’s sure to be a hit. So go ahead, give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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