Big Hunk candy is a chewy and nougat-based candy bar with peanuts. Making a homemade version of Big Hunk candy is possible with a few simple ingredients and some patience. Here’s a recipe to make your own Big Hunk-style candy bars:
Ingredients:
- 2 12 cups white sugar
- 12 cup light corn syrup
- 12 cup water
- 14 teaspoon salt
- 2 large egg whites
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups roasted, unsalted peanuts
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Pan:
- Line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. Grease the parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Nougat Mixture:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the white sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil.
- Continue to cook, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 260°F (127°C) on a candy thermometer. This stage is known as the “hard-ball stage.”
3. Beat the Egg Whites:
- While the sugar mixture is cooking, beat the egg whites in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form.
4. Pour the Sugar Syrup:
- Once the sugar syrup reaches the hard-ball stage, remove it from the heat immediately.
5. Gradually Add Sugar Syrup to Egg Whites:
- While continuously beating the egg whites, gradually pour the hot sugar syrup into the beaten egg whites in a slow, steady stream. Be very careful not to pour the syrup onto the beaters or it may splatter.
6. Add Vanilla and Mix:
- Continue to beat the mixture at high speed for about 5-7 minutes or until it thickens and becomes glossy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
7. Fold in the Peanuts:
- Gently fold in the roasted peanuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the nougat mixture.
8. Transfer to the Pan:
- Quickly transfer the nougat mixture to the prepared baking pan. Smooth the top using a spatula.
9. Allow to Cool:
- Let the nougat cool and set at room temperature for several hours or overnight.
10. Cut into Bars:
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– Once the nougat is completely set, use a sharp knife to cut it into bars or bite-sized pieces.
11. Wrap the Candy:
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– Wrap each candy bar or piece in wax paper or plastic wrap to keep them from sticking together.
Your homemade Big Hunk-style candy bars are ready to enjoy. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This candy is chewy, nutty, and sweet, just like the classic Big Hunk candy.