Jelly Nougat Candy

Jelly Nougat Candy is a chewy, nutty, and fruity treat that brings a delicious combination of sweetness and texture. The airy nougat, enhanced with nuts and dried fruit, offers a satisfying bite. Perfect for a homemade candy experience, this treat is sure to please candy lovers of all ages.

Ingredients

• 2 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 egg whites
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or cashews)
• 1/2 cup chopped dried fruit (like cherries, apricots, or raisins)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Directions

1. In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat until the mixture reaches 280°F (soft-crack stage).
2. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
3. Slowly pour the hot sugar mixture into the egg whites while beating constantly.
4. Add vanilla extract, chopped nuts, and dried fruit to the mixture. Mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased pan and let cool.
6. Once cooled, cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 pieces
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

1. Add Chocolate: For a richer treat, drizzle melted chocolate over the top before the nougat sets.
2. Use Different Nuts and Fruits: Customize the recipe with your favorite mix of nuts and dried fruits like cranberries, pistachios, or cashews.
3. Flavoring: Add a teaspoon of almond extract or lemon zest for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. You can also wrap each piece individually in wax paper for easy serving.
• Reheating: Not necessary, but if the nougat becomes too hard, you can soften it slightly by leaving it covered in a warm, dry place for a few hours.

10 FAQs

1. What is the soft-crack stage?
   The soft-crack stage occurs when a drop of the syrup dropped into cold water forms a firm, pliable thread. Use a candy thermometer to accurately measure this temperature (280°F).
2. Can I use different types of nuts?
   Yes, you can substitute nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts for the ones in the recipe.
3. Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried?
   It’s best to stick with dried fruit for this recipe, as fresh fruit contains too much moisture and may affect the candy’s texture.
4. What do I do if my nougat is too sticky?
   If the nougat mixture is too sticky, dust it with additional powdered sugar or let it cool a bit longer before cutting.
5. How can I make this recipe vegan?
   To make this recipe vegan, substitute the egg whites with an egg replacer, such as aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas), and ensure you use a plant-based syrup.
6. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, you can double the recipe, but you may need to use a larger pan to accommodate the increased mixture.
7. Can I use a stand mixer for beating the egg whites?
   Yes, a stand mixer works great for beating the egg whites to stiff peaks, and it’s less labor-intensive than using a hand mixer.
8. What is the best pan to use for this recipe?
   A 9×9-inch square pan or an 8×8-inch pan works well. You want a pan that is deep enough to hold the mixture without spilling over.
9. How long should I let the nougat cool?
   Allow the nougat to cool completely in the pan, about 2-3 hours. You can speed up the process by placing it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
10. Can I add color to my nougat?
    Yes, you can add a few drops of food coloring to make the nougat more festive and fun.

Conclusion

Jelly Nougat Candy offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures with its soft, chewy nougat base, crunchy nuts, and sweet dried fruit. This homemade candy is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday treats, and is sure to be a hit with everyone who loves a good candy experience!

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