Description
This Pistachio Nougat recipe offers a delightful, chewy homemade candy that’s both gluten-free and vegetarian. Made with roasted pistachios, whipped egg whites, and a sweet honey and sugar syrup, it’s a classic Mediterranean dessert perfect for candy lovers seeking a rich, nutty treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Nougat Base
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup water
- 2 large egg whites
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins and Preparation
- 2 cups roasted unsalted pistachios
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing)
- Edible wafer paper (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Lightly grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan with unsalted butter and line it with parchment paper or edible wafer paper if using.
- Cook Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, honey, and water. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and increase heat to bring the mixture to 290°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Beat Egg Whites: While syrup cooks, beat egg whites with salt in a stand mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Combine Syrup and Egg Whites: Reduce mixer speed to low and carefully pour hot syrup into egg whites in a thin, steady stream. Then increase speed to high and beat for 6–8 minutes until mixture becomes thick, glossy, and holds its shape.
- Add Flavor and Nuts: Mix in vanilla extract until combined, then quickly fold in the roasted pistachios evenly.
- Shape Nougat: Spread the nougat mixture into the prepared pan, pressing evenly with greased hands or a spatula. If using, top with another sheet of wafer paper.
- Set and Cut: Allow nougat to set at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm. Remove from pan and cut into 36 small squares using a sharp knife.
Notes
- Work quickly when spreading nougat in the pan as it sets fast.
- You can substitute pistachios with almonds or hazelnuts if preferred.
- Store nougat in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
