Turron (Spanish Almond Nougat) is a beloved confection that hails from Spain, often enjoyed during festive seasons and celebrations. Its rich, nutty flavor and delightful texture make it a favorite among sweet lovers. Made primarily from almonds, honey, and sugar, this traditional treat is a staple during the holidays, especially at Christmas. The combination of crunchy Marcona almonds with the smooth sweetness of honey creates a mouthwatering experience. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a personal indulgence, Turron is sure to captivate your taste buds.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Turron (Spanish Almond Nougat). First and foremost, it’s incredibly simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients that are easy to find. The satisfaction of creating your own Turron at home is unmatched, and the aroma of roasting almonds fills your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. Moreover, Turron is versatile; you can easily adapt the recipe to include various nuts or even add a hint of citrus zest for a refreshing twist. It’s perfect for gifting, sharing, or simply enjoying as a sweet treat throughout the year.

What You’ll Gather

200g caster sugar
200g honey
250g raw Marcona almonds
1 egg white

Recommended Tools

Heavy-bottomed saucepan – Essential for even heating of the sugar and honey mixture.
Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring and ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan.
Candy thermometer – Helps you achieve the precise temperature for perfect nougat consistency.
Mixing bowl – For whipping the egg white to soft peaks.
Square baking pan – To shape your Turron; line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

The Method for Turron (Spanish Almond Nougat)

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by measuring out all your ingredients. This recipe is straightforward, but having everything prepped will make the process smoother and ensure you don’t miss anything.

Step 2: Roast the Almonds

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread the Marcona almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as they can quickly go from perfect to overdone.

Step 3: Make the Sugar Mixture

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the caster sugar and honey. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Use your candy thermometer to monitor the temperature; you want it to reach 145°C (293°F).

Step 4: Whip the Egg White

While the sugar mixture is heating, use a mixing bowl to whip the egg white until it reaches soft peaks. This step is crucial as it adds air and lightness to your Turron.

Step 5: Combine the Mixtures

Once the sugar mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the heat. Gradually pour it into the whipped egg white while continuously whisking. This step needs to be done quickly to incorporate the hot mixture without cooking the egg white. Keep whisking until the mixture is glossy and thick.

Step 6: Fold in the Almonds

Gently fold in the roasted Marcona almonds into the egg white and sugar mixture. Ensure the almonds are evenly distributed throughout the nougat mixture.

Step 7: Shape the Turron

Line a square baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Press down firmly to ensure it holds its shape.

Step 8: Let it Set

Allow the Turron to cool at room temperature for at least 4 hours or until it is completely set. For best results, leave it overnight.

Step 9: Cut and Serve

Once the Turron has set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife to cut it into squares or rectangles. Serve it immediately or store it for later enjoyment.

Season-by-Season Upgrades

Winter: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm, festive flavor.
Spring: Incorporate lemon or orange zest for a refreshing citrus note.
Summer: Mix in some dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for a chewy texture.
Fall: Enhance with chopped pecans or walnuts for a seasonal twist.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

The quality of your ingredients significantly impacts the final product. Opt for high-quality Marcona almonds for the best flavor and texture. Additionally, ensure your candy thermometer is calibrated correctly to avoid any mishaps with the sugar mixture. If you find the nougat is too hard, you may have cooked the sugar mixture too long, so keep a close eye on the temperature.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

To store your Turron, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for several weeks, making it an excellent treat to prepare in advance. If you find that the nougat has become a bit hard, you can warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to soften it before serving.

Next Steps

Now that you’ve mastered the art of Turron (Spanish Almond Nougat), consider trying your hand at other traditional Spanish sweets. Delight in the world of homemade desserts, from polvorones to marzipan, and share them with family and friends. The joy of creating delicious treats is not just in the making but also in the memories shared over them.

Turron (Spanish Almond Nougat) is more than just a dessert; it encapsulates the spirit of celebration and togetherness found in Spanish culture. So, gather your loved ones, prepare a batch, and savor the rich flavors of this exquisite confection. Whether you’re enjoying a piece with coffee or gifting it to friends, Turron is sure to leave a lasting impression. Happy cooking!