🍳 Instructions
Prep the pan
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal.
Lightly grease the paper.
Toast the nuts & coconut
Spread nuts and coconut on a baking sheet.
Toast at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until golden and fragrant. Cool completely.
Whip the egg whites
In a stand mixer with whisk attachment, beat egg whites on medium until soft peaks form.
Set aside.
Cook the sugar syrup
In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water.
Cook over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
Insert a candy thermometer and cook without stirring until it reaches 260°F (soft-ball stage) — about 10–12 minutes.
Combine carefully
With mixer running on low, slowly pour hot syrup into the egg whites.
Increase speed to high and beat for 8–10 minutes until thick, glossy, and cooled slightly (holds shape).
Add flavor & mix-ins
Beat in vanilla and almond extract.
Gently fold in nuts, dried fruit, coconut, and mini marshmallows until evenly distributed.
Pour & set
Transfer mixture to prepared pan.
Use a greased spatula or hands (lightly oiled) to press into an even layer.
Cool & cut
Let sit at room temperature for 4–6 hours (or overnight) until firm.
Lift out using parchment and slice into squares with a sharp, oiled knife.
🔥 Pro Tip: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra flair!
✅ Tips for the Best Results
Use room-temperature egg whites
Whip up faster and hold volume better
Don’t stir syrup once boiling
Prevents crystallization
Grease your tools
Nougat is sticky — oil keeps spatulas and knives clean
Cut with a warm knife
Dip blade in hot water for cleaner slices
Store in an airtight container
Keeps soft for up to 2 weeks
🔄 Easy Variations to Try
Chocolate Swirl
Melt ½ cup chocolate, swirl into top before setting
Peanut Butter Lover’s
Swirl in ¼ cup warm peanut butter before pouring
Festive Red & Green
Use red/green candied cherries and pistachios
Cocoa Nougat
Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to syrup for chocolate base
Crunchy Rice Version
Fold in 1 cup crispy rice cereal for lighter texture
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can I use a hand mixer?
Yes — but it will take longer and require more attention. A stand mixer works best.
❓ Can I make it without corn syrup?
Not recommended — it prevents crystallization. You can try honey or golden syrup, but texture may vary.
❓ Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
❓ Why did my nougat turn out hard?
Sugar cooked past 260°F — use a thermometer and remove promptly.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a fancy bakery to enjoy a candy that tastes like childhood memories.
With Old-Fashioned Holiday Nougat, you get all the flavor, nostalgia, and sweetness — in a treat that’s worth the effort and impossible to forget.
So next time you’re wrapping gifts…
skip the store-bought box.
Make this instead.
Because the best gifts aren’t bought.
They’re stirred, poured, and shared with love. 💛
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