There’s a certain charm that comes with crafting your own sweets at home, and nothing embodies that magic quite like Cherry & Coconut Nougat. This delightful treat combines the sweetness of honey and a medley of chewy fruits with the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds. As I whisk together the glossy mixture, I find myself lost in the simple joy of creating something from scratch—free from preservatives and artificial flavors that seem to dominate store-bought options.
It’s the perfect solution for anyone craving a break from the mundane routine of fast food and pre-packaged snacks. Plus, this nougat is an absolutely stunning addition to any gathering or festive occasion. Truly, you’d be surprised how easily this elegant confection comes together. With a few straightforward ingredients and a little patience, you’ll transform your kitchen into a haven for old-fashioned candy-making. Trust me; once you give this a try, store-bought sweets will be a thing of the past. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the delightful world of homemade nougat!
Why is Cherry & Coconut Nougat a Must-Try?
Handcrafted Sweetness: This Cherry & Coconut Nougat is not just a treat; it’s an experience that brings a sense of nostalgia to your kitchen.
Nutty and Fruity Bliss: The combination of crunchy almonds and chewy cherries creates a delightful contrast that makes every bite a joy.
Easy Process: With just a few simple steps, you’ll be amazed at how quickly and effortlessly this nougat comes together.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for sharing at parties or savoring during quiet moments, it elevates any occasion with its festive charm.
No Preservatives: Feel good about your sweet indulgence knowing it’s free from any artificial ingredients.
This recipe is designed to restore your love for homemade sweets—prepare to impress your friends and family!
Cherry & Coconut Nougat Ingredients
Get ready to create this delicious Cherry & Coconut Nougat with a handful of delightful ingredients!
For the Fruit Mixture
• Currants – 50g chopped, add a touch of natural sweetness and chewiness.
• Glace cherries – 100g, their vibrant color and flavor offer a festive appeal.
• Sour cherries – 50g chopped, bring a tartness that balances the sweetness.
For the Nutty Base
• Almonds – 100g blanched, toasted, and chopped, they provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
• Desiccated coconut – 100g, adds a tropical richness and texture that’s irresistible.
For the Sweet Binding
• Honey – 150g, acts as a natural sweetener and gives a lovely floral note to the nougat.
• Caster sugar – 300g, the base sweetness that helps achieve the right texture.
• Liquid glucose – 100g, prevents crystallization and ensures a smooth consistency.
For the Binding Agent
• Egg whites – 2, they help whip up a light, airy mixture that gives nougat its fluffy texture.
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, enhances the flavor and adds a warm aroma to your nougat.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this Cherry & Coconut Nougat to life in your kitchen!
How to Make Cherry & Coconut Nougat
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Prepare your tin. Line a baking tin with baking paper to prevent sticking. Brush the sides with a bit of oil and dust lightly with icing sugar for added non-stick assurance.
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Heat the honey. Pour the honey into a saucepan and gently heat it until it reaches 212°C, ensuring a smooth and slightly bubbling texture.
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Mix sugar and glucose. In another saucepan, combine the caster sugar and liquid glucose with 100ml of water. Stir gently until everything is thoroughly mixed.
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Whisk the egg whites. Add the egg whites to a clean bowl and whisk them until they start to form soft peaks, which will give the nougat its signature fluffiness.
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Combine honey with egg whites. As soon as your honey reaches 212°C, pour it carefully over the whisked egg whites while mixing continuously, encouraging a fluffy and emulsified mixture.
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Prepare the sugar syrup. Bring the sugar and water mixture to a boil over medium heat until it reaches 145°C, creating a glossy syrup that will bind everything beautifully.
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Blend the syrup in. Once the syrup reaches the right temperature, pour it in a slow, steady stream into the egg mixture while beating for about 10 minutes until the mixture is thick, glossy, and holds its shape.
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Add the fruity goodness. Gently fold in the chopped currants, glace cherries, sour cherries, toasted almonds, and desiccated coconut. Ensure everything is evenly distributed, then add the vanilla and a pinch of salt.
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Transfer to the tin. Scrape the nougat mixture into the prepared tin, smoothing it out evenly. Sprinkle desiccated coconut on top, cover with baking paper, then refrigerate overnight to set.
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Slice and enjoy. When ready, use a spatula to loosen the nougat edges, tip it out, and chop it into delightful squares on a clean board using a sharp knife.
Optional: Dust with extra icing sugar before serving for a delightful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cherry & Coconut Nougat?
Imagine hosting a delightful evening where each bite of your homemade nougat is perfectly complemented by these special treats and beverages.
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Rich Coffee: The bold flavors of a dark coffee contrast beautifully with the sweet and fruity notes of the nougat. A warm cup will elevate your dessert experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing zest, balancing the richness of the nougat while enhancing its tart cherry flavors.
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Chocolate Fondue: The warmth and richness of melting chocolate provide a luxurious dip for the nougat, creating an indulgent pairing that’s hard to resist.
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Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy and slightly sweet, biscotti pairs perfectly with nougat, and a few bites together bring out the nutty richness of each.
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Sweet Dessert Wine: A light and fruity dessert wine complements the nougat’s sweetness, making for a delightful finish to any meal.
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Coconut Macaroons: Double the coconut pleasure! The chewy texture of macaroons complements the smooth nougat, creating a lovely harmony of flavors and textures.
Each of these pairings offers a unique twist, making your Cherry & Coconut Nougat the star of any gathering or cozy night in!
How to Store and Freeze Cherry & Coconut Nougat
Room Temperature: Store the nougat in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps it fresh while maintaining its delightful texture.
Fridge: If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, refrigerate the nougat in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent it from absorbing other odors.
Freezer: To extend its shelf life, freeze the nougat in slices for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for optimal freshness.
Reheating: To enjoy, simply let the nougat come to room temperature before serving. Avoid reheating, as it can alter its delightful chewy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry & Coconut Nougat are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the nougat mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following all the steps through to pouring it into the prepared tin. After you smooth it out and sprinkle the desiccated coconut on top, cover the tin with baking paper and refrigerate. This allows the nougat to set beautifully and ensures it retains its fresh flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade treat, simply slice it into squares and serve. You’ll have a delightful sweet ready to impress without any last-minute fuss!
Cherry & Coconut Nougat Variations
Feel free to tailor this recipe to your taste and dietary needs for a truly personalized treat!
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Nut-Free: Substitute almonds with sunflower seeds for a crunchy flavor without the nuts. They provide a similar texture and are often a kid-favorite!
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Tropical Twist: Add 50g of dried pineapple alongside the cherries for a bright, tropical flavor that complements the coconut beautifully. The blend of sweet and tangy is sure to uplift any gathering.
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Coconut-Free: Swap desiccated coconut with rolled oats to maintain the chewy texture while creating a different, hearty flavor profile. This alteration offers a more wholesome feel to your nougat.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture before pouring it into the tin. This unexpected heat balances the sweetness and gives a memorable punch!
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Dark Chocolate Delight: Fold in 100g of chopped dark chocolate before setting the nougat. Each bite will be a luxurious balance of sweet and bitter flavors, elevating your sweet treat.
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Dairy-Free: Replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option. This swap creates a deeper flavor profile while still binding the nougat beautifully.
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Flavor Infusion: Experiment by using almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty twist that enhances the overall flavor. Just a drop will bring out a warm elegance that’ll keep your guests guessing.
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Extra Crunch: Mix in 50g of crispy rice cereal for a delightful crunch. It adds an unexpected texture that will keep everyone returning for more.
With these variations, each batch of Cherry & Coconut Nougat can become a unique delight that reflects your personality and taste preferences! Enjoy experimenting!
Expert Tips for Cherry & Coconut Nougat
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Temperature Control: Make sure to monitor the heating of honey and sugar syrup closely; too high and they can burn, compromising flavor.
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Whisking Technique: Whisk the egg whites in a clean bowl to achieve maximum volume; any grease can prevent them from whipping correctly.
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Steady Stream: When pouring the hot syrup into the egg mixture, do it slowly and steadily; this helps prevent cooking the egg whites too quickly.
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Chilling Time: Allow the nougat to set in the fridge overnight. Rushing this step can lead to a softer texture that won’t hold its shape well.
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Cutting with Precision: Use a sharp knife to slice the nougat, ensuring clean edges and a professional-looking treat. A dull knife will squish the nougat.
Cherry & Coconut Nougat Recipe FAQs
What kind of cherries should I use for this nougat?
Absolutely! I recommend using a mix of glace cherries for their sweetness and vibrant color, along with tart sour cherries for balance. If fresh cherries are in season, you can substitute them but be sure to chop and pit them first.
How should I store my Cherry & Coconut Nougat?
You can store your nougat in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This allows you to enjoy its delightful texture and flavors. If you’re looking for a firmer bite, refrigerate it in the same manner for up to two weeks. Just be sure to wrap it well to avoid any unwanted odors!
Can I freeze Cherry & Coconut Nougat?
Yes! To extend its shelf life, freeze the nougat in slices for up to three months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight, freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply take out the desired amount and let them thaw at room temperature—no need to reheat!
What should I do if my nougat doesn’t set properly?
If your nougat isn’t setting, it might be due to incorrect temperatures during cooking. Ensure the honey reaches 212°C and the sugar syrup reaches 145°C. If it remains too soft, try placing it back in the fridge to firm up overnight. If all else fails and it’s too soft to cut, consider using it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt!
Are there any allergy considerations for Cherry & Coconut Nougat?
Definitely! The nougat contains almonds, which are a common allergen. If you’re serving guests, make sure to verify any nut allergies beforehand. For a nut-free version, you can replace almonds with toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflowers. Always check that all other ingredients, especially the cherries and glucose, are allergy-friendly.
How can I make my nougat more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor profile, consider adding spices such as a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom when mixing in the vanilla extract. You can also play around with different dried fruits like apricots or cranberries, providing a new twist on your Cherry & Coconut Nougat. The more, the merrier—use your creativity!
Delicious Cherry & Coconut Nougat to Sweeten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare your tin. Line a baking tin with baking paper to prevent sticking. Brush the sides with a bit of oil and dust lightly with icing sugar for added non-stick assurance.
- Heat the honey. Pour the honey into a saucepan and gently heat it until it reaches 212°C, ensuring a smooth and slightly bubbling texture.
- Mix sugar and glucose. In another saucepan, combine the caster sugar and liquid glucose with 100ml of water. Stir gently until everything is thoroughly mixed.
- Whisk the egg whites. Add the egg whites to a clean bowl and whisk them until they start to form soft peaks, which will give the nougat its signature fluffiness.
- Combine honey with egg whites. As soon as your honey reaches 212°C, pour it carefully over the whisked egg whites while mixing continuously, encouraging a fluffy and emulsified mixture.
- Prepare the sugar syrup. Bring the sugar and water mixture to a boil over medium heat until it reaches 145°C, creating a glossy syrup that will bind everything beautifully.
- Blend the syrup in. Once the syrup reaches the right temperature, pour it in a slow, steady stream into the egg mixture while beating for about 10 minutes until the mixture is thick, glossy, and holds its shape.
- Add the fruity goodness. Gently fold in the chopped currants, glace cherries, sour cherries, toasted almonds, and desiccated coconut. Ensure everything is evenly distributed, then add the vanilla and a pinch of salt.
- Transfer to the tin. Scrape the nougat mixture into the prepared tin, smoothing it out evenly. Sprinkle desiccated coconut on top, cover with baking paper, then refrigerate overnight to set.
- Slice and enjoy. When ready, use a spatula to loosen the nougat edges, tip it out, and chop it into delightful squares on a clean board using a sharp knife.