Quick and Easy Nougat Recipe

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Quick and Easy Nougat Recipe (No Condensed Milk, Honey, or Chocolate)

Chewy, Crunchy, and Completely Irresistible

Craving a sweet, nutty treat but don’t want to fuss with condensed milk, honey, or chocolate? This quick and easy nougat recipe is just what you need! With a chewy base made from sugar syrup and milk powder, and the perfect crunch from roasted pistachios and almonds, this homemade nougat is a simple yet indulgent confection. It’s perfect for gift-giving, festive platters, or a cozy evening snack—and it comes together with minimal ingredients and no special equipment besides a candy thermometer.

Ingredients

For the Nougat Base:

  • ¾ cup water (150 ml)
  • 1½ cups sugar (300 g)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • ½ cup butter
  • ½ tsp liquid vanilla extract
  • 2½ cups milk powder (200 g)

For the Crunch:

  • ½ cup roasted pistachios, chopped (80 g)
  • ¼ cup roasted almonds, chopped (40 g)

Instructions

1. Prep Your Pan

Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will make it easy to lift the nougat out once set.

2. Make the Sugar Syrup

  • In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
  • Increase the heat and bring to a boil. Let the syrup boil without stirring until it reaches the soft-ball stage (115°C / 240°F) using a candy thermometer. This step is essential for that chewy, signature nougat texture.

3. Create the Nougat Base

  • While the syrup is boiling, melt the butter in a large heatproof bowl.
  • Stir in the vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the milk powder until you have a smooth, lump-free mixture.

4. Combine Syrup with Base

  • Once the sugar syrup reaches soft-ball stage, carefully pour it into the milk powder mixture while stirring constantly. Take care—it will be very hot.
  • Continue mixing until the nougat thickens and becomes glossy and uniform.

5. Add the Nuts

  • Gently fold in the chopped roasted pistachios and almonds.
  • Pour the mixture into your prepared dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

6. Let It Set and Slice

  • Allow the nougat to cool and set completely at room temperature for about 2 hours.
  • Once firm, lift it from the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares or rectangles.

Expert Tips

  • Use a candy thermometer to hit the exact temperature for soft-ball stage—this ensures the ideal chewy texture.
  • Don’t rush the cooling process. Letting the nougat set at room temperature gives the best consistency and cleanest cuts.
  • For a firmer nougat, refrigerate it after it sets completely.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No condensed milk, honey, or chocolate required
  • Simple and fast—no need for egg whites or special equipment
  • Customizable with your favorite roasted nuts
  • Perfectly chewy with a satisfying crunch
  • A great option for holidays, dessert tables, or homemade gifts

Nutritional Highlight

This nougat is more than just a sweet indulgence—thanks to roasted pistachios and almonds, it also offers a boost of protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced treat lineup.

Dietary Info

  • Vegetarian-friendly (contains no gelatin or eggs)
  • Gluten-free
  • Customizable – Swap in cashews, hazelnuts, or dried fruit as desired

Storage

Store your nougat in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for 2–3 weeks for longer freshness. Separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

This homemade nougat recipe proves you don’t need complex ingredients to create something truly delicious. With just a few pantry staples and a handful of nuts, you’ll have a chewy, nut-studded delight that tastes like it came straight from a candy shop.

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