If you're a fan of sweets, you've likely enjoyed a nougat-filled chocolate bar.

But what exactly is nougat, and what is it made of? Learn about this classic candy and how you can make it at home!

What Is Nougat?

Nougat is a light, airy candy made from sugar or honey and egg whites. It often includes fruits and nuts, offering a chewy texture and a flavor similar to marshmallow. Unlike processed candy fillings that typically contain corn syrup and hydrolyzed proteins, traditional nougat closely resembles fudge.

It may be found as a standalone treat or as a filling in popular chocolate bar like Snickers, Milky Way, and 3 Musketeers. Nougat is also a favorite during the holiday season in Europe.

What Does Nougat Taste Like?

Properly made nougat is intensely sweet and creamy with a mild, marshmallow-like flavor. Its chewy consistency is thanks to the egg whites, which give it a fluffy texture.

Types of Nougat

There are three primary varieties of nougat:

White nougat is the most common. Made with egg whites, sugar or honey, and sometimes fruits or nuts for added texture and flavor.

Brown nougat uses caramelized sugar instead of egg whites, resulting in a darker, crunchier, and firmer texture.

Viennese nougat features beaten egg whites, sugar, hazelnuts or pralines, and cocoa for a unique flavor profile.

Nougat History

The origins of nougat are a bit unclear, but it's believed to have originated in the Middle East. Early recipes for nougat, known as nāṭif, appeared in 10th-century Baghdad. The treat spread to Spain and Italy by the 15th century and then to France in the 17th century.

Spain: Spanish nougat, called turrón, has been around for over 500 years. It comes in two varieties: Turrón de Alicante, made with egg whites, honey or sugar, and toasted almonds, and Turrón Jijona, which has a smooth, peanut butter-like texture.

Italy: Italian torrone, created around the same time as Spanish turrón, is said to have been crafted for a wedding in Lombardy. The town of Cremona still celebrates this with the annual Torrone Festival.

France: French nougat has its roots in 16th-century Provence. Nougat de Montélimar, a soft white variety, and Nougatine, a crunchy, dark variety, are the main types enjoyed in France.

How to Make Nougat

Making nougat can be a bit challenging but is worth the effort. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Nougat is sticky, so oil your hands and cut while handling it to prevent it from sticking.

2. Use a stand mixer with a whisk attachment to make the process easier, as there’s a lot of mixing and beating.

3. Once it’s ready, store the nougat in wax paper to prevent it from sticking together.

Making nougat requires patience, but the result is a sweet, satisfying treat that’s perfect for sharing or gifting!