Nougat Bars

Here’s a recipe for making Nougat Bars:

Ingredients:

• 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 1/2 cups chopped nuts (such as almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios)
• 1 cup chopped dried fruits (such as apricots, cherries, or cranberries)
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
• Cooking spray or parchment paper

Instructions:

1. Prepare Pan: Line a square baking dish (8×8 inches) with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray. Set aside.
2. Prepare Nuts and Fruits: Chop nuts and dried fruits into small, bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
3. Prepare Nougat Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, honey, and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture and continue cooking until it reaches 260°F (hard-ball stage).
4. Whip Egg Whites: While the sugar mixture is cooking, in a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and salt until stiff peaks form.
5. Combine Mixtures: Once the sugar mixture reaches 260°F, remove it from heat. Slowly pour the hot sugar mixture into the whipped egg whites, beating continuously on low speed.

1. Add Flavorings: Add vanilla extract and continue beating until the mixture becomes thick and glossy, resembling nougat.
2. Fold in Nuts and Fruits: Gently fold in chopped nuts and dried fruits until evenly distributed throughout the nougat mixture. If desired, fold in mini chocolate chips as well.
3. Transfer to Pan: Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
4. Let Set: Allow the nougat mixture to cool and set at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
5. Cut into Bars: Once the nougat has set, use a sharp knife to cut it into bars or squares.
6. Serve: Serve the nougat bars immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Enjoy your homemade Nougat Bars!