What Exactly Is Nougat and What’s It Made From?

If you have a craving for something sweet, chances are you’ve tasted nougat in a chocolate bar. But what exactly is nougat, and what goes into making it? Learn all about this timeless candy, including how to make it at home.

What Is Nougat?

Nougat is a light, airy candy made from sugar or honey and whipped egg whites. It’s often mixed with fruits and nuts. Traditional nougat has a fudgy texture and is a far cry from the processed, corn syrup-based fillings found in many candies today.

When people talk about 'nougat,' they might be referring to the treat on its own or as a filling inside a chocolate bar. You’ve probably come across nougat in popular brands like 3 Musketeers, Snickers, and Milky Way.

This sweet treat is a holiday favorite, especially during Christmas in Europe.

What Does Nougat Taste Like?

When made properly, nougat has a rich sweetness with a creamy, marshmallow-like flavor. It should have a chewy texture, packed with airiness thanks to the whipped egg whites.

Different Types of Nougat

Nougat comes in three main varieties: white, brown, and Viennese.

• White nougat, the most common variety, is likely what you're familiar with. It's made with beaten egg whites, sugar or honey, and sometimes other ingredients to add flavor and texture (such as nuts and candied fruits).
• Brown nougat – which is made with caramelized sugar instead of egg whites – is harder, crunchier, and darker than the white variety.
• Viennese nougat contains beaten egg whites, sugar, hazelnuts or pralines, and cocoa.

The History of Nougat

The origins of nougat are somewhat unclear, but many food historians trace it back to the Middle East. Early recipes for nougat were discovered in a 10th-century Baghdad manuscript, where it was known as nāṭif.

After its beginnings in the Middle East, nougat made its way to Spain and Italy in the 15th century, and eventually to France in the 17th century.

Spain

Spanish nougat, or turrón, has been around for over 500 years. The two primary types are Turrón de Alicante, which is made with egg whites, honey or sugar, and toasted almonds, giving it a white color and crunchy texture. Turrón Jijona, on the other hand, is a smooth, golden paste with a rich, peanut butter-like consistency.

Italy

Italian nougat, known as torrone, was developed around the same time as Spanish turrón in the 15th century. According to legend, the first torrone was crafted to resemble the bell tower of the Cremona cathedral (called Torrazzo or Torrione) for an aristocratic wedding in Lombardy. Today, Cremona still celebrates this treat with an annual Torrone Festival.

France

French nougat traces back to 16th-century Provence. While the exact origin is unclear, local folklore suggests the name ‘nougat’ comes from the French phrase 'tu nous gates,' meaning 'you spoil us.' In France, there are two popular types of nougat: Nougat de Montélimar, a soft white variety, and Nougatine, a crisp, darker variety.

How to Make Nougat

Making nougat is a true labor of love, but the delicious result makes it all worthwhile. You'll need a candy thermometer, a whisk, and plenty of patience. Here are a few tips to keep in mind before you start your sweet adventure:

• Nougat is sticky. Oil your hands before working with the mixture, and oil the knife often when you're cutting the hardened candy into squares.
• Use a stand mixer with a whisk attachment if you have one. There's a lot of beating and mixing, so it will definitely come in handy.
• Store your finished product in wax paper so the candy doesn't stick together.

Give this recipe a try: Torrone (Italian Nut and Nougat Delight)