Mediterranean Traditional Almond Nougat

Almond nougat is a classic Mediterranean confection, celebrated for its chewy, airy texture and nutty sweetness. This recipe features blanched almonds as the star, bound together with a delicate mix of sugar, honey, and whipped egg whites. Vanilla and orange zest enhance the flavor, creating a light, fragrant treat perfect for holidays, special occasions, or a sweet snack. Using edible rice paper makes it easy to handle and slice neatly.

Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15–20 minutes

Cooling/Setting Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups blanched almonds, lightly toasted

1/2 cup pistachios or hazelnuts (optional, for variety)

2 cups granulated sugar

1/2 cup honey

1/4 cup glucose syrup (optional, helps prevent crystallization)

2 large egg whites

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp orange zest (optional)

Edible rice paper or wafer paper, to line the pan

Instructions

Prepare the pan
Line a 9×9-inch (or similar) baking pan with edible rice paper or wafer paper. Lightly grease if needed to help it stick.

Toast the nuts
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread almonds (and optional pistachios or hazelnuts) on a baking sheet and toast for 8–10 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool.

Whip the egg whites
In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.

Cook sugar syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, honey, and glucose syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil and cook to the soft-ball stage (240°F / 115°C).

Combine with egg whites
With the mixer running on low speed, slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the whipped egg whites in a thin stream. Continue mixing until the mixture is thick, glossy, and slightly cooled.

Add flavorings and nuts
Gently fold in vanilla extract, orange zest, and toasted nuts until evenly distributed.

Transfer to pan
Spread the nougat mixture into the prepared pan lined with rice paper. Smooth the top with a lightly oiled spatula. Optionally, place another sheet of rice paper on top.

Cool and set
Let the nougat set at room temperature for 2 hours, or until firm.

Slice and serve
Remove from the pan and cut into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

Nut Options: While almonds are classic, you can mix in pistachios, hazelnuts, or even cashews for different flavors and textures. Toast nuts lightly for extra aroma.

Flavor Enhancements: Add orange zest, lemon zest, or a pinch of cinnamon for a fragrant twist. A few drops of rose or orange blossom water can give it a delicate Mediterranean flair.

Sugar Alternatives: For a slightly different sweetness, you can substitute part of the granulated sugar with superfine sugar or light brown sugar.

Glucose Syrup Substitute: If you don’t have glucose syrup, corn syrup or golden syrup works as a substitute.

Rice Paper Tips: Using edible rice paper prevents sticking and makes slicing easier. You can skip it, but lightly greasing the pan is recommended if you do.

Soft or Chewy Texture: Adjust cooking time slightly — a shorter cook for a softer, chewier nougat, or slightly longer for a firmer texture.

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature. Separate layers with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking.

Optional Add-Ins: Mix in small pieces of candied fruit, dried cranberries, or a few chocolate chips for a festive variation.

Q&A

Q: Can I make nougat without eggs?
A: Traditional nougat relies on whipped egg whites for its airy texture. For an egg-free version, you could try aquafaba (chickpea water) as a substitute, but the texture will be slightly different.

Q: How do I prevent the nougat from sticking to the knife?
A: Lightly oil the knife or dust it with powdered sugar when slicing. Using rice paper on the top and bottom also helps prevent sticking.

Q: Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
A: Yes, pistachios, hazelnuts, cashews, or a mix of nuts work beautifully. Toasting them lightly enhances their flavor.

Q: How long will nougat keep?
A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2–3 weeks. Avoid humid conditions as moisture can make it sticky.

Q: Can I add dried fruits or chocolate?
A: Yes, small pieces of dried cranberries, apricots, or even chocolate chips can be folded in for added flavor and texture.

Nutrition

(per 1-ounce / ~28 g piece, makes ~20 pieces)

Calories: ~150

Fat: 7g

Saturated Fat: 1g

Carbohydrates: 20g

Sugar: 18g

Fiber: 1g

Protein: 3g

(Values are approximate and can vary based on ingredients and portion size.)

Conclusion

Mediterranean Traditional Almond Nougat is a sweet, chewy, and nutty confection perfect for festive occasions or a special treat. With its blend of toasted almonds, honey, and whipped egg whites, it delivers a delicate texture and rich flavor. Adding citrus zest or extra nuts allows for customization, while rice paper ensures easy slicing and presentation. This nougat is a timeless Mediterranean delight that can be enjoyed by family and friends or gifted during the holidays.