Description
A traditional Italian nougat confection that combines the rich sweetness of honey with lightly toasted almonds and hazelnuts. This chewy, luxurious treat is perfect as a festive dessert or a sweet everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
For the Torrone Base:
1 cup honey
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large egg whites
1/4 cup water
Nuts and Flavorings:
1 cup toasted almonds, roughly chopped
1/2 cup toasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped
Zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
A pinch of salt
To Finish:
Extra beaten egg white or water (for sealing the ends, if desired)
Edible rice paper (optional, for easier removal)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pan:
- Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a similar shallow mold with parchment paper. Optionally, lay a sheet of edible rice paper on the bottom to help release the torrone later.
-
Heat the Honey Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, and water.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
- Continue boiling until the mixture reaches a temperature of about 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer.
-
Whisk the Egg Whites:
- While the honey mixture is heating, beat the egg whites in a large, clean bowl until stiff peaks form. Add a pinch of salt to help stabilize the meringue.
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Combine Ingredients:
- Slowly drizzle the hot honey-sugar syrup into the beaten egg whites, whisking continuously. (Be careful as the mixture will be very hot.)
- Once combined, gently fold in the toasted almonds, hazelnuts, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until the nuts are evenly distributed.
-
Set the Torrone:
- Immediately transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, pressing it down firmly and evenly with a spatula.
- If desired, brush the top with a little extra beaten egg white or water to help seal the surface.
- Allow the torrone to cool at room temperature until firm, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting.
-
Serve:
- Remove the torrone from the pan using the parchment paper.
- Using a sharp knife, cut into bite-sized pieces or bars. Enjoy at room temperature for the best texture.
Notes
- Torrone can be sticky; lightly oiling your knife can make cutting easier.
- For a crunchier texture, toast the nuts further or add a mix of different nuts to your preference.
- The recipe can be adapted by substituting or adding other nuts (like pistachios or walnuts) for variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~1 piece (approx. 50g)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg