This Christmas, shake up your dessert selection by picking up some of Trader Joe's new Soft Italian Nougat.
If you've never had it before, nougat is a type of confection made from whipped egg whites, sugar or honey, and roasted nuts. In Italy, the dessert is known as 'torrone' and is typically enjoyed during Christmas time. Trader Joe's new Soft Italian Nougat plays on this tradition by creating the traditional chewy base of egg whites, honey, and sugar, and then adding a trio of crunchy nuts: almonds, hazelnuts, and pistachios. Each piece of candy is then lined with very thin and (completely edible) wafer paper made from potato starch, water, and sunflower oil. The result is a simple, yet elevated holiday dessert.
Italian-Style Nougat Desserts
Trader Joe's New Soft Italian Nougat is Perfect for Christmas
Trend Themes
1. Artisanal Confection Revivals - A modern twist on traditional confections like nougat is allowing artisanal dessert makers to attract new audiences seeking nostalgic flavors.
2. Ethnic-inspired Holiday Treats - There is a growing interest in holiday confections influenced by international cuisines, expanding dessert offerings beyond conventional choices.
3. Innovative Nut Combinations - Creative uses of diverse nut varieties in confections are leading to unique textures and flavors that intrigue the palates of adventurous consumers.
Industry Implications
1. Specialty Foods - The specialty foods industry is being enriched by culturally-inspired desserts like Italian nougat, offering premium products with authentic taste experiences.
2. Gourmet Confections - Gourmet confectionery makers are disrupting traditional markets by introducing exotic flavors through refined ingredients such as premium nuts and edible papers.
3. Holiday-themed Retail - Retailers focusing on holiday-themed products are capitalizing on nostalgic items like Italian nougat, providing unique offerings that differentiate them in competitive seasonal markets.