Homemade Nougat Desserts (No-Bake!)

These homemade nougat desserts are a quick, no-bake treat that combines crunchy nuts, chewy raisins, and a sweet honey-sugar syrup for a delightful texture and flavor. Perfect for gifting, snacking, or serving at gatherings, this recipe is simple yet impressive. With no fancy equipment needed, you can whip up these nougat bars in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• No-Bake Simplicity: No oven required after roasting the nuts—just mix, press, and chill!
• Customizable: Swap nuts, dried fruits, or syrups to suit your taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These nougat bars store well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for meal prep or gifting.

 Ingredients (Makes 12 Bars):

• 100 g (0.8 cup / 3.5 oz) whole almonds 🌰
• 80 g (0.8 cup / 2.8 oz) walnut halves or pieces 🌰
• 1 large egg white 🥚
• 125 g (0.7 cup / 4.4 oz) granulated sugar 🫚
• 125 g (0.4 cup / 4.4 oz) liquid honey 🍯
• 100 g (0.6 cup / 3.5 oz) raisins 🍇
• 1 loaf pan, 26 × 11 cm (10 × 3.5 inch), lined with cling film

 Step-by-Step Directions:

Step 1: Blanch & Shell the Almonds 🌊

1. Bring a small pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the almonds and let them simmer for 2–3 minutes —just long enough to loosen their skins.
2. Drain the almonds in a colander and, once cool enough to handle, pinch each almond between your fingers; the shell will slip off easily. Discard the skins.

Step 2: Roast the Nuts 🔥

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) .
2. Spread the blanched almonds and walnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 8–10 minutes , watching carefully to prevent burning.
3. Remove from the oven when they’re lightly golden and fragrant. Let them cool, then roughly chop into uniform bite-sized pieces. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Whip the Egg White 🥄

1. In a clean, grease-free bowl, whisk the egg white by hand or with a mixer until it thickens and forms soft peaks. This aeration helps the syrup cling evenly to the nuts and raisins.

Step 4: Prepare the Honey–Sugar Syrup 🍯

1. In a small saucepan over low heat , combine the granulated sugar and honey . Stir constantly until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture simmers gently.
2. Remove from the heat—avoid cooking it to the hard-crack stage.

Step 5: Incorporate Whipped Egg White 🥚

1. Immediately pour the hot syrup into the beaten egg white in a thin stream, whisking continuously. The heat will partially cook and stabilize the egg white, creating a glossy, thickened syrup that binds the nuts.

Step 6: Combine with Raisins and Nuts ✋

1. Add the raisins to the bowl of chopped nuts.
2. Pour the honey–egg-white syrup over the mixture. Using a silicone spatula, gently fold until every nut and raisin is fully coated.

Step 7: Press into the Pan 🍬

1. Line a 26 × 11 cm loaf pan with cling film, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
2. Transfer the sticky mixture into the prepared pan. Lay another piece of cling film on top and firmly press down with your hands or the bottom of a measuring cup, creating an even, compact layer about 2 cm (¾ inch) thick.

Step 8: Chill to Set ❄️

1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 10 hours , or overnight. During this time, the syrup solidifies, and the bars become firm enough to slice without crumbling.

Step 9: Slice and Store 🍴

1. Lift the set slab out using the cling-film overhang. Place it on a cutting board and slice into 12 equal bars with a sharp knife.
2. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week , or freeze individually wrapped for up to 2 months .

💡 Tips for Success:

• Nut Variations: Use pistachios, pecans, or hazelnuts instead of almonds and walnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Dried Fruit Options: Swap raisins for dried cranberries, apricots, or cherries for added variety.
• Prevent Sticking: Lightly oil your hands or spatula before pressing the mixture into the pan for easier handling.

⏰ Time Breakdown:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Chill Time: 10 hours (or overnight)
• Total Time: 10 hours 30 minutes

📊 Nutritional Information (Per Bar, Makes 12):

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 12g

These Homemade Nougat Desserts are a delightful combination of crunchy nuts, chewy raisins, and a sweet, sticky honey-sugar syrup. With their no-bake simplicity and customizable ingredients, they’re a treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, sharing them with friends, or storing them for later, these nougat bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Slice, store, and savor the homemade goodness—it’s pure indulgence without the fuss!