Introducing Holiday Nut Delights—a delightful treat perfect for holidays and special occasions! These nutty confections require no baking and are easy to make, featuring toasted almonds and walnuts sweetened with honey and sugar. Whether served at gatherings or given as homemade gifts, these treats promise to impress with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavors. Simple yet delicious, they’re a festive addition to any celebration. 🎄🎄
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Cooling and setting: 12 hours
- Total Time: 12 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 100 g almonds
- 75 g walnuts
- 125 g sugar
- 125 g honey
- 1 egg white
- Oil for greasing
- Icing sugar for sprinkling
Instructions:
- Prepare the Almonds:
- Boil the almonds for 3 minutes. Drain and remove the skins.
- Toast the almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Walnuts:
- Toast the walnuts in the same dry pan over medium heat until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Mould:
- Grease a 22×9 cm mould with a thin layer of oil.
- Sprinkle icing sugar evenly on the bottom and sides of the mould.
- Make the Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar and honey.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture boils.
- Continue cooking until the syrup reaches the soft ball stage. Test by dropping a teaspoon of syrup into cold water—it should form a soft ball. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Egg White:
- In a bowl, lightly beat the egg white.
- Gradually add the hot syrup to the egg white, stirring continuously.
- Cook the Mixture:
- Return the mixture to low heat and cook, stirring continuously, until it thickens to a consistency that holds its shape.
- Combine with Nuts:
- Remove from heat and quickly mix in the toasted almonds and walnuts until evenly distributed.
- Mould and Refrigerate:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared mould. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight to set.
- Serve:
- Once set, remove from the mould and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Sprinkle with additional icing sugar if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy as a sweet treat during holiday gatherings or package as thoughtful homemade gifts.
- Serve with hot beverages like tea or coffee for a delightful pairing.
Cooking Tips:
- Be cautious when handling the hot syrup to avoid burns.
- Ensure the nuts are cooled completely before adding them to the syrup mixture to prevent the sugar from seizing.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Provides protein and healthy fats from almonds and walnuts.
- Moderation recommended due to sugar content.
Dietary Information:
- Suitable for vegetarians.
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to a week.
- Refrigerate for longer shelf life, up to two weeks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to prepare without baking.
- Rich, nutty flavors combined with honey sweetness.
- Perfect for sharing and gifting during festive seasons.
Conclusion:
Holiday Nut Delights are a must-try for anyone who enjoys indulgent yet simple treats. Whether for holiday gatherings or as a homemade gift, these confections offer a delightful blend of toasted nuts and sweet syrup—a true delight for any occasion!