Indulge your sweet tooth with our scrumptious Nougat Bars recipe! These delightful treats feature layers of fluffy nougat, crunchy nuts, and decadent chocolate, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re craving a homemade snack or planning a special dessert, these Nougat Bars are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create these irresistible delights!
Ingredients
For the Nougat Layer:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, peanuts, or pistachios)
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 12 ounces chocolate chips (semisweet or milk chocolate)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening or coconut oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Nougat Layer
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar, honey, and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and cook the mixture until it reaches 260°F (hard-ball stage).
- While the sugar mixture is cooking, beat the egg whites and salt in a clean mixing bowl until stiff peaks form.
- Once the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature, gradually pour it into the beaten egg whites while continuing to beat on high speed.
- Add the vanilla extract and continue beating until the mixture is thick and glossy.
- Fold in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
Step 2: Assemble the Bars
- Line a baking dish or tray with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Place another sheet of parchment paper on top of the nougat and press down firmly to smooth out the surface.
- Refrigerate the nougat layer for at least 1 hour, or until set.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Coating
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening or coconut oil.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
Step 4: Coat the Bars
- Remove the nougat layer from the refrigerator and lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
- Cut the nougat into desired-sized bars or squares.
- Dip each bar into the melted chocolate, coating all sides evenly.
- Place the coated bars on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until the chocolate is set.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Add Crunch: For an extra crunch, add crispy rice cereal or chopped pretzels to the nougat mixture before setting.
- Customize with Flavor: Experiment with different flavorings such as almond extract, coconut extract, or citrus zest for a unique twist.
- Nut-Free Option: Swap out the nuts for seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use store-bought nougat instead of making it from scratch? A: Yes, you can use store-bought nougat if you’re short on time. Simply skip the nougat-making steps and proceed with assembling the bars using pre-made nougat.
Q: How should I store the Nougat Bars? A: Store the Nougat Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars for up to three months.
Q: Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk or semisweet chocolate? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of chocolate for the coating. Dark chocolate will add a rich and intense flavor to the bars.
Keto and Low-Carb Version
For a keto or low-carb version of these Nougat Bars, you can make the following modifications:
- Sugar Substitute: Replace the granulated sugar and honey with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
- Nut Selection: Choose low-carb nuts like macadamia nuts or pecans, and use them in moderation to keep the carb count down.
- Chocolate Coating: Opt for sugar-free chocolate chips sweetened with stevia or monk fruit for the chocolate coating.
In conclusion, our Deliciously Simple Nougat Bars are a delightful treat that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. With their creamy nougat center, crunchy nuts, and decadent chocolate coating, these bars are sure to satisfy any sweet craving. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or sharing them with friends and family, these Nougat Bars are guaranteed to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this irresistible homemade treat!
