Prepare the Peanuts
Start by toasting the peanuts lightly in a dry pan over medium heat until they are golden brown and fragrant. Set aside to cool. This step adds extra depth to the flavor of the peanuts and ensures they blend well with the nougat.
Caramelize the Sugar
In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup of sugar and turn on medium/high heat. Let the sugar sit without stirring for the first few minutes. As the sugar melts from the bottom, it will start to turn into a liquid. Once the bottom layer of sugar has melted, begin stirring gently with a heatproof spatula.
Melt the Sugar to Amber Color
Continue stirring as the sugar melts and turns into a beautiful amber color. Be sure not to let it burn—keep the heat steady and monitor closely. This caramelization process is essential for creating the base of your nougat.
Add the Cream and Salt
Once the sugar reaches a golden amber color, slowly pour in the cream while stirring. The mixture will bubble and steam, so be cautious. Stir constantly until the sugar and cream combine into a smooth, thick caramel mixture. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor balance between sweet and salty.
Cook the Nougat Mixture
Let the nougat mixture cook for about 3-5 minutes, continuing to stir so that it thickens and becomes smooth. The mixture should have a creamy consistency but still be pourable.
Cool the Nougat
Remove the pan from heat and allow the nougat mixture to cool slightly. Transfer it to a bowl to cool completely. This step is crucial, as the nougat will firm up as it cools, making it easier to work with.
Assemble the Cracker Sandwiches
Once the nougat has cooled, it’s time to assemble your cracker sandwiches. Take a salt cracker and spoon a generous amount of nougat onto it. Top with another cracker, gently pressing to form a sandwich. Repeat this process until all of the nougat is used up.
Refrigerate the Sandwiches
Place the assembled cracker and nougat sandwiches on a tray lined with parchment paper. Put them in the fridge for a few hours to allow the nougat to set and the crackers to firm up.
Melt the Chocolate
While the sandwiches are chilling, melt the chocolate. Break 120 g of chocolate into small pieces and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil, which helps keep the chocolate smooth and shiny. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Coat the Sandwiches in Chocolate
Once the cracker sandwiches have set, dip each one into the melted chocolate, making sure to coat them completely. Let any excess chocolate drip off, and place the chocolate-coated sandwiches back onto the parchment-lined tray.
Optional Decoration
If you want to get creative, drizzle some melted white chocolate over the top of the sandwiches for a decorative touch. You can also sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt on top to enhance the salty-sweet flavor.
Chill the Sandwiches Again
Return the chocolate-coated sandwiches to the fridge until the chocolate solidifies, about 30 minutes. Once the chocolate is firm, your salted peanut nougat cracker sandwiches are ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 10 sandwiches):
Calories: 250 kcal
Fat: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Protein: 4 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 18 g
Sodium: 120 mg
Cholesterol: 15 mg
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary depending on the size of each sandwich and the specific ingredients used.
FAQs:
1. Can I use different types of nuts for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute peanuts with almonds, hazelnuts, or even a combination of nuts for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to use whichever type of chocolate you prefer, whether it’s dark, milk, or even white chocolate.
3. What if I don’t have sunflower oil?
You can substitute sunflower oil with any neutral-flavored oil, such as vegetable or canola oil. This helps keep the chocolate coating smooth and prevents it from hardening too quickly.
Tips for Making Perfect Salted Peanut Nougat Cracker Sandwiches:
Avoid Overcooking the Sugar
When caramelizing the sugar, keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Once the sugar reaches an amber color, it’s ready to combine with the cream.
Work Quickly with the Nougat
Once the nougat mixture cools, it may start to harden, so work efficiently when assembling the cracker sandwiches. If the nougat becomes too firm, you can warm it slightly to soften it.
Chilling is Key
Don’t skip the refrigeration steps. Chilling the cracker sandwiches helps set the nougat and ensures that the chocolate coating hardens properly. It also makes the sandwich assembly process easier.
Use High-Quality Chocolate
For the best results, use good-quality chocolate with at least 55% cocoa for dark chocolate. This will give your sandwiches a rich flavor and a smooth coating.
Storage Tips:
Refrigerating:
Store the chocolate-coated cracker sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. The cold temperature helps maintain the shape and texture of the nougat and keeps the chocolate from melting.
Freezing:
You can also freeze the sandwiches if you want to make them ahead of time. Place the sandwiches in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating the layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Conclusion:
These salted peanut nougat cracker sandwiches with chocolate coating are the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy. Whether baked for a party or made as an indulgent treat for yourself, they’re easy to prepare and make a beautiful addition to any dessert table. The caramelized nougat provides a luscious contrast to the salty crackers, while the chocolate coating ties everything together with a rich finish. Give this simple yet sophisticated recipe a try and see how quickly these delicious bites disappear!