Creating a homemade version of the classic Big Hunk candy bar involves making a chewy nougat filled with peanuts. Here’s a recipe to try:
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups roasted peanuts (unsalted)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it with non-stick spray.
- Cook the Syrup:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, honey, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture and cook until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage). This will take about 15-20 minutes. Do not stir while the syrup is cooking.
- Whip the Egg Whites:
- While the syrup is cooking, beat the egg whites in a large bowl until stiff peaks form.
- Combine Syrup and Egg Whites:
- Once the syrup reaches 300°F, remove it from the heat. Gradually pour the hot syrup into the egg whites while beating continuously. The mixture will become thick and glossy.
- Continue beating until the mixture begins to hold its shape and becomes very thick. This can take around 5-10 minutes.
- Add the Vanilla and Peanuts:
- Quickly stir in the vanilla extract and roasted peanuts.
- Pour and Set:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.
- Let the nougat set at room temperature for several hours, or until it is firm enough to cut.
- Cut and Serve:
- Once set, remove the nougat from the baking dish and cut it into bars or squares. Wrap each piece in wax paper to keep it fresh.
Enjoy your homemade Big Hunk bars!
