Traditional Italian Torrone Recipe (Soft Nougat with Nuts)

Name: Traditional Italian Torrone Recipe (Soft Nougat with Nuts)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups honey; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup water; 2 egg whites; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup roasted almonds, chopped; 1 cup roasted hazelnuts, chopped; 1 cup pistachios, chopped; Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the delightful taste of homemade Italian torrone, a soft nougat packed with nuts and flavors that will transport you straight to Italy.

Created by

Kate Phillips

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:30:58.155Z

Torrone is a traditional Italian confection that has been enjoyed for centuries. Known for its chewy texture and nutty flavor, this homemade version is perfect for holiday celebrations or as a sweet treat any time of the year. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious soft nougat that everyone will love!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich nutty flavor perfectly balanced with sweetness
Soft and chewy texture that delights the palate
A beautiful homemade gift for friends and family

      

A Taste of Italy

Torrone is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a beloved tradition in Italy, often enjoyed during festive occasions like Christmas and weddings. This soft nougat is a staple in Italian confectionery, embodying the rich culinary heritage of the region. Each bite captures the essence of Italy, making it a delightful experience that transports you to quaint Italian streets filled with laughter and joy.

The combination of honey, nuts, and egg whites creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The honey provides natural sweetness, while the roasted nuts add a satisfying crunch. Making torrone at home not only allows you to control the quality of ingredients but also enables you to customize the nut mix to suit your taste. Whether you prefer almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios, the possibilities are endless!

Perfect for Gifting

Homemade torrone makes for a thoughtful and impressive gift that is sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth. Its elegant presentation, dusted with powdered sugar, makes it an attractive addition to any gift basket or holiday spread. Imagine the joy on your friends' and family’s faces as they unwrap a piece of your lovingly crafted nougat, a taste of Italy right in their hands.

You can easily package torrone in decorative boxes or bags, making it a wonderful gift for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion. Personalizing your gift with a handwritten note adds an extra touch of warmth and sincerity. Plus, making it yourself allows you to share a piece of your culinary journey, creating lasting memories around the table.

Tips for Perfecting Your Torrone

To achieve the perfect texture for your torrone, pay close attention to the temperature of your sugar syrup. The hard ball stage, reached at 250°F, is crucial for creating that desired chewy consistency. A candy thermometer is an excellent tool to ensure accuracy during this step.

Additionally, when whipping the egg whites, make sure your bowl is clean and free of any grease. This will help the egg whites whip up to their full potential, resulting in a light and airy nougat. Patience is key in this process, so take your time and enjoy the art of making traditional Italian torrone.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start for the best results.

Ingredients for Traditional Italian Torrone

2 cups honey
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
2 egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup roasted almonds, chopped
1 cup roasted hazelnuts, chopped
1 cup pistachios, chopped
Powdered sugar for dusting

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for perfect results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a perfect torrone.

Prepare the Sugar Syrup

In a saucepan, combine honey, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil and cook until it reaches 250°F (hard ball stage).

Whip the Egg Whites

While the syrup is cooking, whip the egg whites in a large bowl until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the hot syrup to the egg whites while continuing to whip until the mixture is glossy and thick.

Incorporate the Nuts

Gently fold in the chopped almonds, hazelnuts, and pistachios, along with the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Set the Nougat

Line a rectangular baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the nougat mixture into the dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Allow it to cool at room temperature for at least 4 hours or until set.

Cut and Serve

Once set, dust the top with powdered sugar and cut into squares or bars. Enjoy your homemade torrone!

Store any leftover torrone in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Storage Tips

Once your homemade torrone is cut into squares or bars, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain its soft and chewy texture, ensuring that each piece remains delightful to the last bite. Avoid refrigeration, as this can alter the consistency of the nougat.

If you want to extend the shelf life of your torrone, consider wrapping each piece in wax paper before placing them in a container. This not only helps to keep them fresh but also prevents them from sticking together, making it easier to share or gift.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with your torrone by incorporating different flavors and ingredients. You can add citrus zest, such as orange or lemon, for a refreshing twist. For a chocolate lover's delight, consider folding in some mini chocolate chips or drizzling melted chocolate over the top before it sets.

Another fun variation is to experiment with spices. A hint of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to your nougat, making it even more unique. The beauty of making torrone at home is that you can tailor it to your preferences, making every batch special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite nuts or a mix of different nuts for variety.

→ How do I store leftover torrone?

Store torrone in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

→ Can I make torrone without egg whites?

Yes, you can use aquafaba as a substitute for egg whites if you want a vegan version.

→ What is the best way to cut torrone?

Use a sharp knife, and lightly dust it with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.