🍬 Homemade White Chocolate Nougat with Dried Fruits and Nuts 🍯

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Indulge in the delightful sweetness of this homemade white chocolate nougat studded with vibrant dried fruits and crunchy nuts. This treat is not only a burst of flavor but also a nutrient-packed snack, thanks to the wholesome ingredients like pistachios, almonds, and dried cranberries. Perfect for holiday gifting, festive gatherings, or a quick energy boost, this nougat is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this no-bake recipe is simple to make and guaranteed to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Nougat Recipe

This white chocolate nougat is a celebration of textures and flavors:

• Creamy and Sweet: The silky white chocolate base melts in your mouth.
• Crunchy and Chewy: Chopped nuts and dried fruits add a satisfying contrast.
• Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein-rich nuts and antioxidant-filled dried fruits, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• No-Bake Ease: Minimal prep and no oven required, making it perfect for any time of year.

🥄 Ingredients

To create this delectable nougat, you’ll need the following ingredients. Feel free to adjust quantities or substitute based on your preferences!

• 200 g (7 oz) high-quality white chocolate – Choose a good-quality white chocolate with at least 30% cocoa butter for the best texture and flavor.
• 100 g (¾ cup) shelled pistachios, roughly chopped – Unsalted pistachios add a vibrant green color and nutty crunch.
• 100 g (¾ cup) dried cranberries – These tart, chewy berries balance the sweetness of the chocolate.
• 50 g (½ cup) whole almonds, roughly chopped – Toasted almonds enhance the flavor, but raw ones work too.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the nougat.
• Pinch of sea salt – A tiny amount elevates the flavors and cuts through the sweetness.

Optional Add-Ins:

• 50 g dried apricots, chopped, for extra fruitiness.
• A handful of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
• A sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom for a spiced variation.

🔔 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to whip up a batch of this irresistible nougat. The process is straightforward, and the result is a professional-looking treat that’s perfect for sharing.

Step 1: Prepare the White Chocolate Mixture

1. Set up a double boiler: Fill a small saucepan with a few inches of water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Place a heatproof bowl over the saucepan, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water.
2. Melt the white chocolate: Break the white chocolate into small pieces and add them to the bowl. Stir occasionally with a spatula until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Cool slightly: Remove the bowl from the heat and let the melted chocolate cool for 2-3 minutes. This prevents the nuts and fruits from sinking or clumping when mixed.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

1. Add the nuts and fruits: In the bowl with the melted chocolate, add the chopped pistachios, dried cranberries, chopped almonds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt.
2. Mix thoroughly: Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated in the white chocolate. The mixture should be thick and chunky, with the nuts and fruits distributed throughout.
3. Taste and adjust: If you’re using optional add-ins like dried apricots or spices, stir them in now. Adjust the salt or vanilla to taste, if desired.

Step 3: Shape the Nougat

1. Prepare the mold: Line a 20 cm (8-inch) square baking dish or loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment with a neutral oil (like vegetable oil) to ensure the nougat doesn’t stick.
2. Pour and spread: Transfer the nougat mixture into the prepared mold. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly, pressing gently to compact the mixture and remove air pockets.
3. Smooth the top: For a polished look, smooth the surface of the nougat with a spatula or damp fingers.

Step 4: Chill and Set

1. Refrigerate: Place the mold in the refrigerator and let the nougat chill for at least 2 hours, or until fully set. For faster setting, you can place it in the freezer for 45 minutes.
2. Check for firmness: The nougat is ready when it feels solid to the touch and doesn’t bend when lifted.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

1. Remove from the mold: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the nougat slab out of the mold. Place it on a cutting board.
2. Cut into pieces: Using a sharp knife, slice the nougat into small squares or rectangles. For clean cuts, dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry between slices.
3. Serve and enjoy: Arrange the nougat pieces on a platter or pack them into gift boxes. Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

⏰ Time and Yield

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 16-20 pieces, depending on size

🍴 Serving Suggestions

This white chocolate nougat is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Holiday Treat: Package the nougat in decorative tins or cellophane bags for a thoughtful homemade gift during festive seasons.
• Party Platter: Serve alongside other sweets like cookies, truffles, or fruit platters for a stunning dessert spread.
• Snack On-the-Go: Wrap individual pieces in parchment paper for a portable, energizing snack.
• Pairing Ideas: Enjoy with a cup of coffee, herbal tea, or a glass of dessert wine to complement the sweetness.

🛠️ Tips for Success

• Choose Quality Chocolate: The flavor of the nougat depends heavily on the white chocolate. Avoid brands with excessive sugar or artificial flavors.
• Toast the Nuts (Optional): For extra flavor, lightly toast the pistachios and almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, then cool before chopping.
• Customize the Mix-Ins: Swap cranberries for dried cherries, raisins, or goji berries. Try hazelnuts or walnuts instead of almonds for a different twist.
• Storage: Store the nougat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
• Freezing: Wrap the nougat tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cutting.

🌿 Dietary Variations

• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free white chocolate made with coconut or oat milk, available at most health food stores.
• Nut-Free Version: Replace nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, or add more dried fruits for texture.
• Low-Sugar Alternative: Opt for sugar-free white chocolate and reduce the amount of dried fruit or use unsweetened varieties.

🎄 Perfect for Any Occasion

This white chocolate nougat with dried fruits and nuts is a crowd-pleaser that fits any occasion. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it a standout addition to holiday celebrations, while its simplicity makes it an everyday treat. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a healthy snack, or preparing edible gifts, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

🧼 Clean-Up Tip

Melting chocolate can be messy! To clean sticky bowls and utensils, soak them in hot water with a drop of dish soap, then wipe with a sponge. For stubborn chocolate residue, sprinkle a little baking soda and scrub gently.

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