Description
Traditional Italian Torrone is a soft white nougat made with honey, sugar, egg whites, and toasted nuts. This chewy, sweet treat is flavored with vanilla or citrus zest and perfect for festive occasions or as a delightful dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Nuts
- 1 cup (100g) toasted almonds
- 1 cup (100g) toasted pistachios or mixed nuts
Syrup and Nougat Base
- 1 cup (340g) honey
- 1 cup (200g) sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) water
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or citrus zest
Instructions
- Toast the Nuts: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the almonds or mixed nuts on a baking sheet and toast them for 10 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let cool.
- Cook the Honey: Pour the honey into a small saucepan and heat it gently over medium heat until it reaches 250°F (120°C) using a candy thermometer. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Prepare the Sugar Syrup: In another saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Cook over medium-high heat until the syrup reaches 300°F (150°C). Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
- Whip Egg Whites: While syrups are cooking, beat the egg whites in a clean bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually pour the hot honey into the whipped egg whites while continuing to beat them, creating a glossy, thick mixture.
- Mix: Slowly add the hot sugar syrup to the egg white and honey mixture while beating constantly to incorporate. Once combined, fold in the toasted nuts and vanilla extract or citrus zest evenly.
- Shape: Line a dish or mold with parchment paper. Pour the nougat mixture into the dish and press it evenly using a spatula or your hands. Smooth the surface and let it set at room temperature for 4 hours to firm up.
- Slice: After setting, remove the Torrone from the dish, peel off parchment paper, and cut into 12 equal pieces. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Use a mix of nuts such as almonds and pistachios or other favorites for a richer flavor.
- Add a pinch of cocoa powder or ground cinnamon to the mixture for a unique twist on traditional Torrone.
- Store Torrone in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh and chewy.
- Ensure the temperature of syrups is precise for proper nougat consistency; a candy thermometer is recommended.
- Use fresh egg whites and beat them well to achieve the right texture for the nougat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
