Hard or soft torrone?
Torrone is a traditional Italian nougat candy made from egg whites, honey, and toasted nuts - almonds, hazelnuts, pistachios, walnuts, or a combination. But not all torrone is the same - some are friabile, hard and crunchy, while others are tenero or morbido, soft and chewy. Each region and brand offers a unique texture and taste. In this post, we’ll explore the differences between these two classic styles, dive into the history behind this beloved candy, and help you decide which one is right for you.
Hard Torrone: Crunchy, "Traditional" and "Classic"
Hard torrone, also known as torrone duro or friabile, is, as the name suggests, firm and crunchy. Firm, crisp, and delightfully brittle, this variety is cooked longer to achieve its signature texture. Many refer to hard torrone as the "traditional" or "classic" torrone. Hard torrone can be covered with chocolate, torrone ricoperto, or have a layer of chocolate in the middle, torrone farcito.
You'll often find large blocks of hard torrone at feasts where it's stacked high and chopped with a hammer and cleaver!
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Soft Torrone: Chewy and Delicate
Soft torrone, torrone tenero or torrone morbido, has a tender, chewier consistency. It has a more delicate texture and is more pliable than hard torrone. Soft torrone is made with a slightly higher proportion of honey, sugar, or glucose, and egg whites, which gives it a lighter, fluffier texture. It is cooked for a shorter time than hard torrone, resulting in a candy that is more pliable and less brittle. Soft torrone often comes with creative additions such as pieces of dried fruit, chocolate, or caramel.
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Choosing Between Hard and Soft Torrone
Both hard and soft torrone are delicious and widely loved. Your choice often comes down to personal preference or family tradition: some savor the crunchy satisfaction of hard torrone, while others favor the chewy sweetness of soft.
If you can’t decide, sample both and try different producers! It’s a fun way to explore the range of Italian torrone.
Whether you prefer the satisfying crunch of hard torrone or the tender chew of soft torrone, indulging in this traditional Italian sweet is like tasting a piece of history. Each bite carries centuries of craftsmanship, regional pride, and festive tradition. Celebrate Italian heritage one delicious bite at a time!
Continue The Tradition Of Torrone! Explore our full selection of Italian torrone and find your favorite today.
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