What Is A Nougat Actually Made Of?

There's nothing wrong with chocolate on its own, but when it is housing something special inside, our taste buds get really excited. Nuts are a common addition enjoyed by chocolate bar enthusiasts, while ruby chocolate is the perfect treat for fruit lovers, but there is one filler that some folks declare is the winner: nougat. The sweet, chewy confection elevates chocolate bars in a way few other ingredients can, but it can also be savored on its own. Yet, despite the adoration it receives, many folks don't even know what it is actually made of.

Whether it's concealed inside your 3 Musketeers or any of the discontinued candy bars that many still crave today, the type of nougat most Americans are familiar with is largely composed of hydrolyzed proteins and corn syrup. More traditional nougat — like the kind frequently served during the Christmas season in Europe — has a fudgier texture and is typically made by mixing honey or sugar with beaten egg whites. However, nougat isn't a one-trick pony. There is more than one type and they all have distinct differences in their construction that make them uniquely delicious.

White nougat is the most commonly seen version of the confection in many regions. Egg whites and sugar constitute this exquisite treat, which is sometimes mixed with nuts to boost both flavor and textural appeal. It boasts a creamy sweetness reminiscent of marshmallows and a delectable chewiness that keeps folks coming back for more.

Brown nougat is the white variety's close cousin. Instead of egg whites, this darker adaptation of the candy is made with caramelized sugar. It's unlikely that you would find this kind of nougat stashed inside a chocolate bar, but on its own, the sweet, crunchy dessert is a step above the classic white version.

Perhaps the most flavorful rendition of nougat is the Viennese variety. This delightful concoction is formed by blending egg whites with sugar, cocoa, and hazelnuts or pralines. It may be hard to spot this variant outside of a specialty European market or the largest candy store in the United States. However, if you can find some, prepare your palate for a toothsome, chocolatey treat that might change your opinion of the more traditional varieties of nougat.