Name: Traditional Italian Torrone Recipe (Soft White Nougat with Nuts) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 4 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup (340g) honey; 1 cup (200g) sugar; ¼ cup (60ml) water; 2 egg whites; 1 cup (100g) toasted almonds; 1 cup (100g) toasted pistachios or mixed nuts; 1 tsp vanilla extract or citrus zest

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Introduction

Torrone is a traditional Italian soft white nougat, packed with toasted nuts and sweetened with honey and sugar. This chewy, fragrant treat is perfect for sharing or gifting during the holidays or any special occasion.

Three pieces of white nougat are arranged on a white plate, each piece filled with whole almonds and green pistachios embedded throughout. The nougat has a dense, slightly powdery texture on top with visible nuts creating a contrast of green and brown colors against the white base. The pieces are rectangular and stacked in a casual manner, showing the rough edges where they were cut. The background is a white marbled texture, adding clean brightness to the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup (340g) honey
1 cup (200g) sugar
¼ cup (60ml) water
2 egg whites
1 cup (100g) toasted almonds
1 cup (100g) toasted pistachios or mixed nuts
1 tsp vanilla extract or citrus zest

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the almonds and pistachios or mixed nuts on a baking sheet and toast them for 8-10 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Heat the honey in a saucepan over medium heat until it reaches 250°F (120°C) on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat once it reaches the temperature.
Step 3: In a separate saucepan, combine sugar and water. Cook over medium heat until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C), stirring occasionally.
Step 4: While the syrups are cooking, beat the egg whites in a clean bowl until they form soft peaks.
Step 5: Slowly pour the hot honey into the beaten egg whites in a steady stream while continuing to beat the mixture to incorporate the honey fully.
Step 6: Gradually add the hot sugar syrup to the egg white and honey mixture, folding gently to combine.
Step 7: Fold in the toasted nuts and vanilla extract or citrus zest until evenly distributed.
Step 8: Pour the mixture into a dish lined with parchment paper. Press it down evenly and firmly.
Step 9: Let the torrone set at room temperature for about 4 hours until firm.
Step 10: Once set, cut into pieces and serve immediately or store as directed below.

Tips & Variations

Use a candy thermometer to ensure precise temperatures for best texture and consistency.
Substitute or combine nuts based on preference—hazelnuts or walnuts work beautifully.
Add a touch of citrus zest like lemon or orange for a fresh twist.
For a chewier texture, beat the egg whites a little longer to stiff peaks before adding the syrups.

Storage

Store torrone in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigeration, which can make it sticky, but if your environment is very warm, keep it cool. To serve, bring to room temperature before slicing to prevent cracking.

How to Serve

A rectangular block of white nougat with a smooth, slightly swirled texture on the top and visible nuts embedded inside and on the top layer. The nuts include whole almonds in a light to medium brown color and green pistachios, both whole and sliced, scattered evenly across the surface and throughout the white nougat base. The nougat rests on white parchment paper that lines a baking tray, with the tray's edges slightly visible. The background is a clean white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use roasted nuts instead of toasting them myself?

Yes, pre-roasted nuts work well and save time. Just ensure they are fresh and unsalted for the best flavor balance.

Is it safe to eat torrone with raw egg whites?

Since the hot honey and sugar syrup are added while beating the egg whites, the heat cooks the mixture sufficiently, making it safe to eat. Always use fresh, high-quality eggs for best results.