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Torrone Nougat Candy

This homemade Italian torrone nougat candy is a delightful blend of honey, nuts, and citrus, offering a chewy and satisfying treat perfect for holidays and gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Candy, Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 515

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 cups honey Choose a good-quality honey for best flavor.
  • 1.25 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large egg whites At room temperature.
  • 1 small pinch salt
  • 3 cups whole almonds, toasted
  • 1.5 cups whole hazelnuts, toasted
  • 1 each lemon zest Zest of 1 lemon.
  • 0.5 each orange zest Zest of 1/2 orange.
  • 4 sheets edible wafer paper (rice paper)
  • 1 sheet parchment paper
  • as needed butter or cooking spray For greasing the pan.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Line an 8 x 8-inch or similar baking pan with parchment paper. Place one sheet of wafer paper on the bottom and set the pan aside.
  2. Set a large heatproof glass bowl over a pot of barely simmering water. Ensure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water.
Cooking
  1. Add the honey and sugar to the bowl and stir constantly for about 30 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes very hot and thick.
  2. About 5 minutes before the honey mixture is ready, beat the egg whites with the salt in a clean bowl until stiff peaks form.
  3. Whisk the whipped egg whites into the honey mixture gradually until fully incorporated.
  4. Continue stirring over the simmering water for 40 to 50 minutes until thick and glossy.
  5. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the lemon zest, orange zest, almonds, and hazelnuts.
Shaping
  1. Spread the mixture into the prepared pan and press down firmly. Cover with 2 more sheets of wafer paper and a piece of parchment.
  2. Place a flat weight over the nougat and let it rest for 1 to 2 hours until firm.
Finishing
  1. Turn the torrone out onto a cutting board and cut into small rectangles using a lightly oiled sharp knife.
  2. Store the pieces in an airtight container at room temperature with wax paper between layers.

Notes

This torrone keeps well and makes a great homemade gift. Consider wrapping in small pieces for giving. Adjust nuts and zest based on personal preference.