Nougat Candy recipe

Festive Nougat Candy Recipe with Gumdrops: A Colorful Holiday Treat

This Nougat Candy recipe, originally shared by Elise Avella Feiner, has become a favorite in our family. It’s an easy, no-bake treat that’s soft, chewy, and packed with festive colors. Made with white chocolate and marshmallows, this nougat is dotted with bright, fruity gumdrops, making it perfect for Christmas or any special occasion. This version includes a few tweaks to make the process even easier. Let’s get started!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 (250 gram) bags of mini marshmallows (about 5 cups)
• 2 (225 gram) bags of white chocolate chips (roughly 4 cups)
• 2 cups of gumdrops (use any colors you like, or swap in Dots for a smoother texture)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

1. First, line a 9 x 13-inch pan with foil, leaving enough extra around the edges to make “handles” for lifting the nougat out once it’s set.
2. Lightly spray the foil with PAM or any non-stick spray. This helps make sure the nougat won’t stick when it’s time to remove it.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Chocolate

1. In a large, heatproof bowl, add the butter and white chocolate chips.
2. Place the bowl over a pot of gently simmering water (this acts as a double boiler). Make sure no water splashes into the bowl, as it can make the chocolate seize up and become unusable.
3. Stir gently until everything is melted and smooth.
   

Step 3: Add the Marshmallows

1. Take the bowl off the heat and place it on the counter.
2. Add about half of the mini marshmallows and stir quickly until they start to blend into the chocolate mixture.
3. Add the rest of the marshmallows. If it seems too thick or hard to stir, microwave it for 30 seconds at a time, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Fold in the Gumdrops

1. Now it’s time to add the gumdrops. Fold them in gently but quickly so they’re evenly spread throughout the nougat mixture. The pops of color from the gumdrops make it look so festive!

Step 5: Spread the Mixture in the Pan

1. Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula sprayed with PAM to press it down evenly and smooth it out, making sure it reaches all the corners.
   
2. If you need to, lightly spray your hands with PAM and use them to press the mixture flat.
   

Step 6: Chill and Slice

1. Pop the pan in the fridge and let the nougat chill overnight, or at least for a few hours, until it’s firm.
2. When it’s ready, use the foil “handles” to lift the nougat out of the pan. Carefully peel the foil off.
3. Cut the nougat into small squares – they’re perfect for sharing or gifting!
   

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Serving and Storing Tips

To keep your nougat squares fresh and firm, store them in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container with parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. For a festive presentation, wrap each piece in wax paper or place it in mini candy cups. They’re great for adding to holiday trays or giving as homemade gifts!

This colorful, chewy nougat is a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re setting it out at a holiday party or packing it up as a gift. I hope this festive candy brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine. Enjoy, and happy holidays!