Description
Homemade torrone is a classic Italian Christmas nougat made with honey, whipped egg whites, and toasted nuts. It turns out soft, chewy, and perfect for gifting.
Ingredients
2 sheets wafer paper, cut to fit baking dish
12 ounces honey (by weight, about 1 cup)
1 ⅔ cups granulated sugar
3 egg whites, at room temperature
1 pinch salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon zest
3 cups roasted nuts (almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts, or pecans)
Instructions
1. Line a square baking dish with plastic wrap and one sheet of wafer paper.
2. Whip egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form and keep them in the mixer.
3. In a heavy bottomed pot, heat honey and sugar together until the syrup reaches 300°F.
4. With the mixer running, gradually stream the hot syrup into the whipped egg whites.
5. Add lemon zest and vanilla, then continue whipping until the bowl feels warm but comfortable to touch.
6. When the mixture thickens, fold in the roasted nuts with a sturdy spatula.
7. Quickly spread the nougat into the lined dish using a lightly greased spatula.
8. Place the second sheet of wafer paper on top and press firmly to flatten the surface.
9. Let the torrone set at room temperature until firm, then remove from the pan and slice with a serrated knife.
Notes
Use a candy thermometer for precise syrup temperature.
Work quickly once the syrup and egg whites are combined because the nougat thickens fast.
Lightly grease your spatula or hands for easier spreading.
Press the top wafer layer evenly using a flat bottomed cup or ramekin.
Store in an airtight container at 60 to 70°F for up to 2 weeks and avoid freezing.
Substitute orange or lime zest and different extracts if you want a flavor twist.
Use any roasted nuts you like and add dried fruit or food coloring for festive variations.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 90
- Category: Christmas Dessert Recipes
- Method: Stovetop candy
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 415
- Sugar: 51
- Sodium: 22
- Fat: 19
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 15
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 61
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 7
- Cholesterol: 0