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Description
March 26 is a day dedicated to one of the most delicious, chewy, and nutty treats ever created? It’s National Nougat Day! Whether you're a long-time fan or just learning about this sweet treat, this day is a great excuse to indulge in some nougat-filled joy.
History
The origins of nougat are a bit murky, but historians agree that it dates back thousands of years. Some trace its origins to ancient Rome, where it was made by combining honey and nuts, similar to what we recognize today. The word "nougat" itself comes from the Occitan word nougat, meaning "nut," which makes sense given that most nougats are packed with nuts.
Throughout history, nougat has evolved from a simple sweet to a luxurious candy enjoyed across the globe. In medieval times, it was often made for special occasions and celebrations. It became particularly popular in Italy and France, where traditional recipes continue to thrive today. The Italian version, Torrone, has a distinct place in Italian culture, especially during the holiday season.
Fast forward to the 20th century, and nougat became a key ingredient in many mass-produced candies. Think of nougat’s role in classic chocolate bars like Snickers or Milky Way—both of which have nougat as a central component. It wasn’t until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that nougat began making its way into the commercial candy world, and that’s when the candy truly took off.
How To Celebrate
So, how can you join in the fun and celebrate National Nougat Day on March 26? Here are a few ideas to get you started:
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Indulge in Your Favorite Nougat Treats: The most obvious way to celebrate National Nougat Day is by enjoying some nougat! Whether you love Brach's Valentine Nougats, Snickers, Milky Way, or simply want to try a traditional nougat bar, today is the perfect excuse to satisfy your sweet tooth. Grab a handful of your favorite nougat and indulge in its chewy, nutty goodness.
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Try Making Homemade Nougat: If you're feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at making your own homemade nougat? It’s a fun and rewarding way to celebrate the day. You’ll need sugar, honey, egg whites, and your favorite nuts (almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts). There are plenty of easy-to-follow recipes online that can guide you through the process, and the result will be a delicious, homemade treat to share with friends and family.
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Host a Nougat-Tasting Party: Why not get together with some friends or family and host a nougat-tasting party? Pick up a variety of nougat treats from different brands and flavors, like Brach's Valentine Nougats, Snickers, or even premium nougat bars. Have everyone sample the different varieties and vote on their favorites. You can even make it a fun competition by having a "nougat bake-off" where everyone makes their own version.
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Share with Others: National Nougat Day is all about spreading the joy of this sweet treat. Why not surprise a friend or neighbor with a gift of nougat? You could hand them a box of Brach’s Valentine Nougats or a beautifully wrapped nougat bar, and share the love of this special day.
Amazing Facts
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Nougat Dates Back to Ancient Times: Some historians believe that the earliest versions of nougat can be traced back to the ancient Egyptians, who made honey and nut confections as a form of sweet indulgence.
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Nougat is an Ancient Luxury: In medieval times, nougat was considered a luxury food that was often served at royal banquets and feasts. It was a treat fit for kings and queens!
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Brach’s Valentine Nougats Are a Classic: Many people associate Brach’s Valentine Nougats with the holiday season, but did you know that they’ve been a staple in candy aisles for decades? Brach’s has perfected the art of nougat candy, and their Valentine Nougats are loved year-round.
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Chocolate and Nougat Go Hand-in-Hand: The combination of nougat and chocolate is one of the most popular pairings in the candy world. In fact, Snickers, one of the world’s best-selling candy bars, is made with nougat as its base!
Why We Love
Now that you know what nougat is and where it comes from, you might be wondering, Why do people love it so much? Well, let’s break it down:
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Chewy and Crunchy Delight: Nougat is that perfect balance between chewy and crunchy. The texture is soft enough to bite into but firm enough to provide that satisfying crunch, especially when it’s packed with almonds or hazelnuts.
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Sweet and Nutty Flavor: The sweetness of the honey and sugar blends perfectly with the nutty flavor of almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts. For many, the flavor of nougat evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia, often reminding people of homemade treats or special moments shared with family and friends.
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Versatility: Nougat can be enjoyed on its own, but it’s also a versatile ingredient in a wide variety of treats. From nougat-filled candy bars to the classic torrone served during the holidays, there are endless ways to enjoy this beloved sweet.
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Perfect Pairing with Chocolate: There’s something about nougat that pairs beautifully with chocolate. Chocolate-covered nougat, like the famous Snickers bar, is a match made in candy heaven. The rich chocolate and soft nougat complement each other so well, making it an irresistible combination.
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