Four Ingredient Nougat Bars

Step 2: Combine Sugar, Corn Syrup, and Water

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar before turning on the heat. Avoid stirring once the mixture starts boiling, as this can cause crystallization.

Step 3: Cook the Sugar Mixture

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Attach a candy thermometer to the pan. Cook the syrup until it reaches the 250°F (hard-ball stage). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test it by dropping a small amount into cold water; it should form a firm, pliable ball.

Tip: Keep an eye on the color—once it starts turning slightly golden, you’re close.

Step 4: Add Nuts

Remove the pan from the heat. Quickly stir in the roasted nuts (or your choice of mix-ins). Make sure the nuts are evenly coated with the hot syrup. At this stage, you can also add vanilla extract if desired.

Step 5: Pour and Shape

Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Work quickly because the mixture hardens fast. You can lightly oil the spatula to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, about 1–2 hours. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift the nougat slab out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and cut into bars of your desired size with a sharp knife.

Tips for Success

• Work quickly: Nougat sets fast, so have all ingredients and utensils ready.
• Prevent sticking: Oil your spatula or hands lightly when shaping or pressing the mixture.
• Add variety: Mix in mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a twist.
• Storage: Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Why These Bars Are Special

What makes these bars so remarkable is their simplicity. Many nougat recipes require whipping egg whites or carefully tempering sugar, but this version keeps things simple while still delivering the classic chewy, nutty texture we all love. Plus, with only four ingredients, it’s an accessible treat even for beginner bakers.

Final Thoughts

Four Ingredient Nougat Bars are a delicious, nostalgic treat that brings the perfect combination of chewy sweetness and nutty crunch to your fingertips. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gift, a school bake sale, or just a weekend snack, this recipe proves that sometimes less really is more. With minimal ingredients, straightforward steps, and maximum flavor, these nougat bars are destined to become a kitchen favorite.

If you want, I can also create a visual step-by-step guide with tips for perfect chewy texture to make it even easier to follow. It would look almost like a mini cooking manual for these bars.

Do you want me to do that?