What Is Turrón? Spanish Almond Nougat and How to Choose It in Canada

Turrón is a Spanish sweet, traditionally associated with Christmas, with classic almond varieties made using almonds, honey, sugar and egg white. The two best-known almond styles are crunchy Alicante and soft Jijona. Modern turrones also include chocolate and other flavours, so always read the individual label.

If you are buying Spanish almond nougat in Canada for the first time, start by choosing the texture. A small selection of contrasting styles makes a simple dessert plate or food gift.

Alicante vs. Jijona: crunchy or soft?

Style	Texture	Who might enjoy it?
Alicante, often called duro	A firm, crunchy nougat with visible almonds, often between thin wafers.	Someone who likes a pronounced nut crunch.
Jijona, often called blando	A soft, rich texture made with finely ground almonds.	Someone who prefers a softer almond sweet.
Chocolate turrón	Varies by recipe, from smooth to crunchy.	A chocolate lover exploring the wider turrón selection.

Alicante and Jijona are protected geographical names for products meeting their respective requirements. Look at the producer's label for the exact style and certification rather than assuming every almond nougat is identical.

How to choose a first turrón

• Start with texture. Choose soft Jijona, crunchy Alicante or one of each.
• Compare pack sizes. A smaller bar works for tasting; larger bars suit sharing.
• Read ingredients. Almond percentage and the recipe vary. Avoid choosing only by the photograph.
• Check dietary information. Traditional almond turrón contains nuts and can contain egg; other ingredients and allergen statements depend on the product.

Browse the current Spanish turrón and sweets selection at Little Spain Market to compare available styles and sizes.

How much turrón should you serve?

For a tasting after a meal, approximately 20–30 g per person is a useful starting point. A 150 g bar gives about five to seven small tasting portions, depending on how generously you cut it.

For six guests, try two small bars in different styles if you want a choice and a little extra. If serving biscuits, fruit and other desserts too, you may need less.

Three easy serving ideas

1. After-dinner tasting: set small pieces of crunchy and soft turrón on separate plates alongside coffee or tea.
2. A Spanish dessert platter: combine turrón with biscuits, dark chocolate and fresh fruit.
3. A host gift: pair an unopened bar with another packaged Spanish sweet, checking the recipient's preferences and the product labels.

Break crunchy turrón into manageable pieces rather than forcing a large bar with a knife. Slice soft turrón with a suitable knife and arrange it in small portions.

Storing turrón at home

Follow the producer's instructions and best-before date. Keep unopened bars in the conditions stated on the packaging. Once opened, wrap or close them as directed and protect them from heat and strong odours.

Soft almond turrón can release some almond oil. Texture varies by recipe, so use the information on the actual product rather than applying the same storage rule to every style.

Buying Spanish almond nougat online in Canada

Check the pack weight, ingredients, current availability and delivery information for your address. If buying for a particular gathering, allow time for delivery; do not assume seasonal stock or arrival dates without checking.

Explore Spanish turrón and Christmas sweets at Little Spain Market and choose a soft or crunchy style for your next tasting.

Frequently asked questions

Is turrón the same as nougat?

Turrón belongs to the wider nougat family, but Spanish styles have distinct ingredients, textures and traditions. The name alone does not tell you whether a bar is crunchy or soft.

Is all turrón gluten-free?

No universal claim applies. Wafers, added ingredients and manufacturing conditions vary. Check the label and any gluten-free claim on the specific product.

Style and production reference: Consejo Regulador IGP Jijona y Turrón de Alicante.