Turrón De Alicante Hard Almond Nougat

Step into the festive spirit with a delicious Spanish Christmas treat – Turrón De Alicante, a traditional Hard Almond Nougat that is sure to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of warmth to your holiday celebrations. This classic dessert is a beloved staple in Spanish households during the holiday season, known for its rich, nutty flavor and irresistible crunch. Share this delightful confection with your loved ones or wrap it up as a thoughtful homemade gift that captures the essence of the season.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole almonds
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup honey
– 2 egg whites
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Edible wafer paper (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Spread the whole almonds evenly on a baking sheet and toast them in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Be sure to check and stir them occasionally to prevent burning. Once toasted, let the almonds cool before proceeding.

2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and honey. Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved and the ingredients are well combined. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature – you are aiming for the soft ball stage (around 240°F or 116°C).

3. While the sugar and honey are cooking, whisk the egg whites in a clean, dry bowl until stiff peaks form. This will take a few minutes, and you want the egg whites to be glossy and firm.

4. Once the sugar and honey mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the heat and carefully fold in the toasted almonds and lemon zest. Stir gently to evenly incorporate the ingredients.

5. Gradually add the stiff egg whites to the almond mixture, folding them in carefully to maintain the fluffy texture. Continue to mix until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is thick and sticky.

6. Line a rectangular baking dish or mold with edible wafer paper, if using, to prevent sticking. Transfer the nougat mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly and smoothing the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon.

7. Allow the Turrón De Alicante to cool and set at room temperature for several hours or preferably overnight. The nougat should become firm and hold its shape when sliced.

8. Once the nougat is fully set, use a sharp knife to cut it into small rectangular bars or squares. You can wrap these individually in decorative paper for serving or gifting.

Enjoy the delightful crunch and irresistible sweetness of Turrón De Alicante as a festive addition to your holiday dessert table or a special homemade gift for friends and family. This traditional Spanish treat captures the essence of Christmas with its rich almond flavor and satisfying texture, making it a delightful indulgence for the season. Share the joy of this classic treat and create lasting memories with your loved ones this holiday season.