Pecan Nougat
Delightful pecan nougats with rich nutty flavor and a crisp exterior, perfect for sweet snacks or holiday treats suited for nut lovers and dessert enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground pecans, sugar, vanilla, salt, and egg white until well combined.
- Add just enough unbeaten egg white to hold the mixture together when pressed lightly with your hand.
- Form teaspoon-sized portions into roundish patties.
- Bake in a very slow oven until golden brown.
- Allow the nougats to cool completely before removing from the baking sheets.
- Enjoy your delicious pecan nougats.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the ground pecans before mixing them in. If you need a substitute for egg white, aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) works well in binding the ingredients. Adjust the sweetness by reducing sugar slightly if desired, as the vanilla also adds some sweetness. Be mindful not to overmix, as this can make the nougat tough.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pecan nougats as a delightful dessert on their own or paired with coffee or tea. They also make a lovely addition to a dessert platter alongside Haman Hats(Jewish Cookies) or other sweet treats. For a festive touch, drizzle with melted chocolate or dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pecan nougats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them to prolong freshness, but bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Avoid storing in a humid environment to prevent them from becoming sticky.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Nougat contains roughly 284 calories, with 5g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value), calcium (11% of the Daily Value), and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1916mg per serving (83% 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 other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts such as walnuts or almonds. Just make sure to adjust the grinding process for the texture you desire. Different nuts may also alter the flavor profile slightly, but they can still create a delicious nougat.
What should I do if the mixture is too dry?
If your mixture seems too dry and crumbly, add a small amount of unbeaten egg white gradually until it holds together better when pressed. Ensure not to add too much at once, as you want to maintain the right consistency for shaping.
Can I freeze pecan nougats?
Yes, pecan nougats can be frozen. Layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature for the best texture.
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).