Crispy Peanut Nougat

#### **Step-by-Step Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Baking Sheet:**
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. This will prevent the nougat from sticking and make it easy to remove once it’s set. Set aside.

2. **Cook the Sugar Mixture:**
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar, honey, corn syrup, water, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the syrup begins to simmer. Allow the mixture to cook for 4-5 minutes without stirring, until it reaches a soft ball stage (around 240°F or 115°C on a candy thermometer).

3. **Add Vanilla and Baking Soda:**
Once the sugar mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. Be careful, as the mixture will bubble up when you add the baking soda. Stir quickly to incorporate it.

4. **Add the Peanuts:**
Stir in the roasted salted peanuts to the mixture, making sure they are evenly coated with the syrup.

5. **Set the Nougat:**
Pour the peanut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it out evenly into a rectangular shape. The mixture will be hot, so be cautious while working with it.

6. **Let It Cool:**
Allow the nougat to cool at room temperature for at least an hour, or until it becomes firm and sets. If you’d like the nougat to be extra crisp, you can place it in the refrigerator for faster cooling.

7. **Cut Into Pieces:**
Once the nougat has cooled and hardened, use a sharp knife to cut it into small squares or rectangles. You can also break it into bite-sized pieces for a more rustic look.

8. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Enjoy your crispy peanut nougat immediately or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. The nougat will remain fresh for up to one week, but we doubt it will last that long!

### **Tips and Variations:**

– **For Extra Crunch:** Add additional nuts such as almonds, cashews, or hazelnuts to enhance the crunch and flavor profile.
– **Chocolate Drizzle:** Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled nougat for a decadent touch.
– **Dried Fruits:** For a fruity variation, add dried cranberries, raisins, or apricots to the mixture before pouring it onto the baking sheet.
– **Vegan Version:** Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar and use a dairy-free butter substitute to make this treat vegan-friendly.

### **Why This Recipe Works:**

The combination of honey and corn syrup in the recipe ensures that the nougat will have a chewy texture, while the baking soda makes it slightly lighter and more airy. Roasted peanuts provide a delicious contrast in texture, offering a satisfying crunch to balance out the sweetness of the nougat. This easy-to-make candy can be customized with your favorite ingredients and is perfect for those who love homemade confections.

### **Conclusion:**
Crispy peanut nougat is a delightful treat that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying to eat. With its perfect balance of chewy and crunchy textures, it’s the ideal candy to indulge in on a special occasion or as a simple snack. Try making this crispy peanut nougat at home, and enjoy a delicious, homemade sweet that will impress your friends and family!