Torrone Italian Nut and Nougat Confection

Ingredients

• 2 cups slivered almonds
• 1/2 cup hazelnuts
• 1/2 cup walnuts
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine honey, sugar, salt, and corn syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and quickly stir in baking soda and vanilla extract.
4. Pour mixture over nuts and stir to coat. Spread mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet and press into an even layer.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let cool before breaking into pieces.
6. In a small bowl, combine melted butter and 1/4 cup of the cooled nut mixture. Stir until combined.
7. Spread mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet and press into an even layer.
8. Bake for 10 minutes. Let cool before breaking into pieces.

Interesting Facts

• Torrone is a traditional Italian confection made with nuts, honey, and sugar.
• It is usually served during the Christmas season.
• The name “torrone” comes from the Latin word “torrere”, which means “to toast”.
• It is believed that the first Torrone was created in the 15th century in the city of Cremona.
• It is also believed that the recipe was brought to Italy by the Arabs.