Chocolate Nougatines
Chocolate Nougatines are crunchy, nutty confections coated in smooth melted chocolate. Their sweet, caramelized flavor pairs well with coffee or as a gift. This classic treat suits those who enjoy rich, homemade candies with a delightful crunch and a touch of vanilla and nuts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, corn syrup, honey, and water in a saucepan.
- Stir occasionally and boil to hard ball stage (265° to 270°).
- Add salt to the egg whites.
- Beat egg whites until stiff.
- Gradually pour half of the hot syrup into the beaten egg whites, beating constantly.
- Boil the remaining syrup to hard crack stage (285° to 290°).
- Gradually pour the remaining syrup onto the egg mixture, beating constantly.
- Place the mixture over heat on an asbestos mat.
- Beat until thick.
- Add vanilla and chopped nuts.
- Pour into well buttered, shallow pans.
- When cool, cut into squares.
- Coat the squares with melted dipping chocolate.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure your sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature for the desired texture; use a candy thermometer for accuracy. If you're looking for a nut-free option, consider using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead of nuts. For additional flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of orange zest to the mixture before cooling.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate nougatines make a delightful treat on their own or can be paired with coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon snack. They also serve as a great addition to dessert platters alongside cookies, such as Quaker Chocolate Oats Chip Cookies, or fruit-based desserts like Southwest Baked Apples.
Storage & Reheating
Store the chocolate nougatines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, but allow them to return to room temperature before serving to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Nougatines contains roughly 80 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 585mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can customize the recipe by using your favorite nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Just ensure they are chopped to a similar size for even distribution in the nougatines.
What if I don't have a candy thermometer?
If you don't have a candy thermometer, you can test the syrup stage by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a hard ball, it's ready. This method requires practice but can be effective.
How do I know when the nougatines are set and ready to cut?
The nougatines will feel firm to the touch and will have cooled to room temperature. If you press gently, they should not stick to your fingers. Once set, you can cut them into squares for serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).