Introduction
Nougat bars are a timeless treat enjoyed worldwide, often featuring in candy bars like Snickers or Mars. Traditionally made with nuts, sugar, honey, and egg whites, nougat offers a chewy, sweet, and nutty experience. This simplified version requires just four ingredients and offers all the delightful chewiness and rich flavor without the hassle of a complicated recipe.
Ingredients
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 cup roasted peanuts (salted or unsalted, based on your preference)
- 2 cups chopped Turkish delight or gummy candy (any flavor you like)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan: Line an 8×8-inch (or similar-sized) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Melt the Base: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the mini marshmallows and white chocolate chips. Stir constantly until they melt completely and form a smooth mixture. Make sure not to overheat to prevent scorching.
- Mix in the Goodies: Remove the melted mixture from the heat and quickly stir in the chopped Turkish delight (or gummy candy) and roasted peanuts. Mix well to ensure the candies and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the nougat.
- Shape the Nougat: Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared baking pan and use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased with oil or butter) to press it down evenly into the pan.
- Set and Slice: Let the nougat set at room temperature for at least 2 hours or until firm. For faster results, place it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Once set, use the parchment overhang to lift the nougat out of the pan. Cut it into bars or squares.
Methods
- Microwave Option: If you prefer a quicker method, you can melt the marshmallows and white chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth.
- Nut Substitution: For a different flavor profile, substitute the peanuts with almonds, cashews, or any nut of your choice. You can also use a mix of nuts for added texture.
- Chocolate Drizzle: To elevate these bars, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top once they have set for an extra layer of flavor and presentation.
History
Nougat is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region, particularly in countries like Italy, Spain, and France. It’s made using ingredients such as honey, sugar, and nuts, traditionally forming a chewy, sweet treat enjoyed during holidays and celebrations. This modern adaptation simplifies the process, making it more accessible for home cooks while maintaining the essential qualities that make nougat so beloved.
Achieving the perfect nougat texture can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips and techniques, you can ensure your nougat bars turn out just right — chewy, but not too sticky, and firm, but not hard. Here are some helpful tips to get the best texture for your nougat:
Tips for Perfect Nougat Texture
- Control the Heat:
- When melting marshmallows and white chocolate (or any ingredients for nougat), use low to medium heat. High heat can cause the sugars to caramelize too quickly or burn, resulting in a hard or gritty nougat. Stir continuously to ensure even melting.
- Use Fresh Ingredients:
- Fresh marshmallows are softer and melt more smoothly than older, dried-out ones. Using fresh ingredients helps maintain a soft, chewy texture. Similarly, use high-quality chocolate chips to ensure a smooth melt without clumping.
- Avoid Over-Mixing:
- Once the marshmallows and chocolate have melted and are smooth, avoid over-mixing when adding the nuts and candies. Overworking the mixture can cause it to stiffen quickly, making it harder to spread evenly.
- Use a Non-Stick or Lightly Greased Spatula:
- To prevent sticking and make it easier to spread the nougat mixture in the pan, use a non-stick spatula or lightly grease your spatula with oil or butter. This will help you evenly distribute the mixture without pulling or tearing it.
- Chill to Set, But Not Too Long:
- Chill the nougat just until it firms up enough to cut cleanly. If you leave it in the fridge too long, it can become overly hard. For best results, chill for about 30 minutes to an hour, or set at room temperature for a couple of hours.
- Use a Sharp Knife for Cutting:
- To get clean, even slices, use a sharp knife that has been lightly greased or dipped in hot water. This prevents the nougat from sticking to the blade and tearing, giving you smooth, neat edges.
- Add a Binding Agent (Optional):
- If you want your nougat bars to be firmer and less sticky, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch or powdered sugar to the melted marshmallow and chocolate mixture. This can help absorb excess moisture and maintain a stable texture.
- Adjust for Humidity:
- Nougat can be sensitive to humidity. If you live in a humid climate, your nougat may end up stickier. To counter this, you might want to use a little less liquid or more powdered ingredients (like powdered sugar or cornstarch) to help achieve a firmer texture.
- Layer with Edible Paper (Optional):
- Traditional nougat often uses rice paper or wafer paper to line the pan or cover the top, preventing it from sticking and adding a slight crispiness. This can be a helpful trick if you find your nougat too sticky to handle.
- Incorporate Whipped Egg Whites (For a Different Texture):
- If you prefer a more classic nougat texture, you can whip one or two egg whites to stiff peaks and fold them into the melted marshmallow mixture. This will create a lighter, airy nougat with a delicate chewiness.
Benefits
- Quick and Easy: With only four ingredients, these bars are incredibly simple and quick to prepare, perfect for satisfying a sweet craving without much effort.
- Customizable: This recipe allows for various flavor combinations by switching up the nuts or candies, making it suitable for different tastes.
- Homemade Control: Making these nougat bars at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients and adjust the sweetness level to your liking.
Formation
The combination of melted marshmallows and white chocolate forms the chewy base, while the Turkish delight or gummy candy adds bursts of fruity flavor. The roasted peanuts provide a satisfying crunch, creating a texture contrast that makes these bars irresistibly good.
Nutrition (Approximate per Bar)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 16g
Conclusion
These Four Ingredient Nougat Bars are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. With a blend of chewy nougat, crunchy nuts, and fruity candy, they’re a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether for a quick snack, a party treat, or a gift, these bars are sure to please!
Lovers of Nougat Bars
Nougat bars are beloved by those who appreciate a mix of textures and flavors in their sweets. From candy enthusiasts to dessert lovers who enjoy a touch of nostalgia, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a simple yet delightful treat.
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