Homemade Almond Nougat – Greek Mantolato

Mandolato is a classic Mediterranean nougat dessert made with honey, sugar, egg whites, and toasted almonds. This homemade version is rich, chewy, and packed with crunchy roasted almonds in every bite.

With its glossy texture and sweet honey aroma, mandolato is a festive dessert often prepared during holidays and celebrations. Although it looks impressive, the recipe is surprisingly simple and produces a delicious homemade nougat that rivals traditional confectionery shops.

Homemade Almond Nougat – Greek Mantolato

Recipe by George Zolis

5.0 from 1 vote

Course: DessertCuisine: GreekDifficulty: Easy

Servings

30

pieces

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

195

kcal

Total time

35

minutes

Traditional homemade mandolato made with honey, sugar, egg whites, and roasted almonds. Chewy, sweet nougat perfect for festive desserts.

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Ingredients

Metric US

• 120 g 4.5 oz Egg Whites

• 300 g 10 oz Roasted Almonds

• 700 g 3 1/2 cup Sugar

• 400 g 1 1/4 cup Honey

• 1 tsp 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

• 1 pinch 1 pinch Salt

How to make Greek Mantolato

• Place the egg whites in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat until they form stiff peaks (meringue).
• In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey and sugar.
• Stir continuously until the sugar melts, fully combines with the honey, and the mixture begins to boil.
• Beat the meringue again briefly to stabilize it.
• Gradually pour the hot honey–sugar mixture into the mixer while it is beating the meringue. Add slowly in a thin stream.
• Add the vanilla extract and the roasted almonds. Mix until evenly incorporated.
• Line a baking pan with parchment paper and pour the mixture inside.
• Spread evenly with a spatula.
• Allow the mandolato to cool and set for about 1 hour.
• Place parchment paper on top, invert the pan, and remove the nougat.
• Cut into portions.

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What Is Mandolato?

Mandolato is a traditional Mediterranean almond nougat dessert commonly found in Greece and Italy. Its name comes from the Italian word mandorla, meaning almond.

This confection combines whipped egg whites with hot honey syrup and toasted nuts to create a chewy, slightly crunchy candy.

The Secret to Perfect Nougat Texture

The key steps are:

• Properly whipped egg whites
• Gradual incorporation of hot honey syrup
• Thorough mixing with roasted almonds

These steps create a stable, airy nougat that firms up as it cools.

Choosing the Right Almonds

Roasting almonds beforehand enhances both flavor and texture. Whole almonds create a rustic look and satisfying crunch, while chopped almonds give a softer bite.

How to Serve Mandolato

Mandolato is typically served:

• As a festive dessert
• With coffee or espresso
• As part of holiday sweet platters

It can also be wrapped individually as a homemade edible gift.