Jelly Nougat Candy: A Sweet, Soft, and Chewy Delight
Jelly nougat candy is a timeless confection that has captured the hearts and taste buds of sweet enthusiasts for generations. With its soft, pillowy texture and delightful flavor combinations, this delectable treat is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a special homemade gift, a decadent dessert to serve at a gathering, or a delicious indulgence for yourself, this jelly nougat recipe is sure to deliver.
🌟 What Makes This Recipe Special
The secret to the allure of jelly nougat candy lies in the harmonious blend of its key components: the fluffy, airy nougat and the fruity, chewy jelly center. The contrast of textures, from the soft and creamy nougat to the firm yet pliable jelly, creates a truly unique and satisfying experience with every bite. Furthermore, the versatility of this recipe allows you to experiment with a variety of fruit flavors, making it easy to cater to individual preferences and dietary needs.
Beyond its exquisite taste, jelly nougat candy is also a remarkably accessible and make-ahead-friendly recipe. With simple, readily available ingredients and a straightforward preparation process, even novice home cooks can easily master the art of crafting these delightful treats. Additionally, the long shelf life of the finished candies makes them an ideal choice for gifting or storing for future enjoyment.
🍴 Ingredients
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fruit preserves or jelly (your preferred flavor)
The beauty of this jelly nougat candy is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of sweet sugar, light corn syrup, and fresh egg whites creates the irresistible texture that has made nougat recipes perennially popular.
👨🍳 How to Make Jelly Nougat Candy Step-by-Step
• Step 2: In a large, clean, and dry bowl, beat the egg whites and salt with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Gradually pour the hot sugar syrup into the egg whites, beating constantly, until the mixture is thick and glossy, about 5-7 minutes.
• Step 3: Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
• Step 4: Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. Spread the nougat mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
• Step 5: Dollop the fruit preserves or jelly onto the nougat and use a knife or offset spatula to swirl it in, creating a marbled effect.
• Step 6: Allow the jelly nougat to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
• Step 7: Lift the nougat from the pan using the parchment paper overhang and transfer it to a cutting board. Cut into 1-inch squares and serve.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 2 hours 35 minutes
Compared to traditional candy-making which can take up to an hour to prepare, this jelly nougat candy saves you 50% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
📊 Nutrition Facts
Per serving (based on 16 servings):
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 42mg
These jelly nougat candies provide approximately 15% of your daily carbohydrate requirements, making them a satisfying treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
💚 Healthy Swaps & Substitutions
• Lower-carb version: Substitute a portion of the sugar with a low-calorie sweetener, such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener, to lower the carbohydrate count.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Replace the egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) to create a vegan-friendly jelly nougat candy.
• Added protein: Fold in a scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder to the nougat mixture for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Puree and fold in a small amount of cooked sweet potato or pumpkin to the nougat for added nutrients and a hint of natural sweetness.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the jelly nougat candy.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair the jelly nougat candy with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting treat.
• Complement the candy with a fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a balanced and refreshing dessert.
• For a festive presentation, arrange the jelly nougat squares on a platter and garnish with fresh berries, edible flowers, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
❓ FAQs
How far in advance can I make jelly nougat candy?
Jelly nougat candy can be made up to 1 week in advance. Store the cooled and cut squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, the uncut nougat can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I use a different type of fruit preserve or jelly?
Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can experiment with a variety of fruit flavors, such as strawberry, raspberry, apricot, or even a combination, to suit your personal preferences. Just be sure to use a high-quality, spreadable preserve or jelly.
How can I make the jelly nougat candy gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply ensure that the fruit preserves or jelly you use, as well as any other ingredients, are certified gluten-free. Many major brands now offer gluten-free options, making it easy to adapt this recipe to accommodate dietary restrictions.
What if my nougat doesn’t reach the proper temperature?
If the sugar syrup doesn’t reach the 240°F mark on your candy thermometer, the nougat may not set properly. Be sure to monitor the temperature closely and adjust the heat as needed to achieve the right consistency. If the nougat is still too soft after cooling, you can try refrigerating it for a bit to help it firm up.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the jelly nougat?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, or even shredded coconut to the nougat mixture for added texture and flavor. Just be mindful of any allergies or dietary restrictions when adding additional ingredients.
🎉 Final Thoughts
These jelly nougat candies represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a delightful dessert or gifting them to loved ones, they’re sure to impress with their soft, chewy texture and irresistible fruity notes. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these jelly nougat candies demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the cooking process. So why not give this recipe a try and experience the joy of homemade, handcrafted candy goodness?
