Nougat Heart

Nougat Heart Recipe: A refined and delicious dessert

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10

In this recipe, we will create an elegant dessert called "Nougat Heart," which combines a soft base with a sweet and aromatic meringue topping. It is a simple recipe but with a remarkable visual and taste impact, perfect for special occasions or to impress friends. Here’s how to prepare it step by step.

Ingredients for the nougat base:
- 150 g unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 150 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon orange extract (or lemon for a different note)
- A pinch of salt
- 4 egg yolks
- 200 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder

Ingredients for the meringue:
- 4 egg whites
- 200 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 50 g ground nuts (optional, for texture)

Step by step preparation:

1. Preparing the base: In a large bowl, mix the butter with the sugar, orange extract, and salt until the mixture becomes creamy and fluffy. This step is essential for obtaining a light and airy base. Use an electric mixer for the best results.

2. Add the egg yolks: Incorporate the yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Ensure each yolk is fully integrated before adding the next.

3. Incorporate the dry ingredients: Sift the flour together with the baking powder and gradually add them to the butter mixture, mixing with a spatula until you achieve a homogeneous composition. Avoid overmixing to preserve the texture of the base.

4. Baking the base: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking tray (about 20x30 cm) with butter and line it with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the tray and level the surface. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the base turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely.

5. Preparing the meringue: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer until foamy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until the meringue becomes glossy and forms stiff peaks. In the last minute, add the vanilla extract and ground nuts if using.

6. Finalizing the dessert: Once the base has cooled, spread the meringue evenly over it. Put the tray back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes until the meringue becomes lightly golden and crispy on top.

7. Serving: Allow the dessert to cool completely before cutting it into heart or square shapes. You can decorate it with melted chocolate or fresh fruits for an extra flavor and attractive appearance.

Useful tips:
- Make sure the bowls and utensils used for the egg whites are completely clean and dry to achieve perfect meringue.
- You can experiment with different flavors, such as almond or rum extract, to give your dessert a personal twist.
- Instead of nuts, you can add chocolate chips or dried fruit pieces to the meringue for an interesting texture.

This Nougat Heart recipe is a quick and simple dessert but with exceptional taste, perfect for celebrating special moments. Enjoy it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful experience!

 Ingredients: Base: 125g flour, 6 eggs, 200g melted nougat, 125g butter, 100g sugar (I only used 45g because I covered it with fondant), 1 vial of orange essence, 1 teaspoon of dry yeast, salt. Cream: 250g mascarpone, 1 packet of vanilla pudding, 1/2l milk, 3 packets of vanilla sugar, 1 teaspoon sugar, 3 sheets of gelatin.