Hey there, holiday enthusiasts! If you’re anything like me, the holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in some sweet magic. The twinkling lights, cozy evenings by the fire, and of course, the delicious treats that seem to bring everyone together. One of my favorite festive delights? Gumdrop Nougat Candy! This delightful treat combines the soft, chewy textures of nougat with the colorful and fun addition of gumdrops. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll feel like a kid again, and the joy of the season will wrap around you like a warm, fuzzy blanket.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to adore this easy gumdrop nougat candy recipe. First off, it’s incredibly straightforward! With just a few ingredients that you might already have in your pantry, you can create something that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare.
This recipe is perfect for the holiday season, as it brings vibrant colors to your dessert table and is delightful for both adults and kids alike. Plus, gumdrops create that nostalgic feeling, reminiscent of holiday treats from childhood. The contrast of creamy nougat and chewy gumdrops is seriously irresistible!
And let’s not forget about gifting. This nougat can be beautifully wrapped and given as a handmade gift that anyone would be thrilled to receive. After all, nothing says “I care” quite like a sweet treat made with love. So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this make-ahead delight that’s bound to impress!
Step-by-Step: Making Gumdrop Nougat Candy
Creating this delightful candy is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a festive batch of sweets ready to share and enjoy in no time!
Ingredients
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups gumdrops, cut in halves
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Start by lining an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will make it super easy to lift the nougat out once it’s set.
Step 2: Melt the Base Ingredients
In a large saucepan over low heat, combine the mini marshmallows, white chocolate chips, and unsalted butter. Stir gently until everything is melted and smooth.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Once your mixture is beautifully melted, stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, comforting flavor.
Step 4: Fold in Gumdrops
Gently fold in the halved gumdrops. This is where the fun begins, the bright colors are going to make your nougat sparkle!
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Pan
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Press down lightly to ensure everything is compact.
Step 6: Let It Set
Let the nougat cool at room temperature for at least two hours or until it’s firm to the touch.
Step 7: Cut into Squares
Once set, lift the nougat out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut it into delightful squares.
Best Ways to Serve Easy Gumdrop Nougat Candy
Serving your Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy is as fun as making it! Simply cut it into small squares and arrange them on a festive platter. You can even sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of festivity.
If you’re hosting a holiday gathering, why not offer a candy bar buffet? Place your nougat candy alongside other festive treats like gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark, and chocolate truffles. Your guests will love the variety and get to mix and match their favorite holiday flavors.
Storage Tips for Easy Gumdrop Nougat Candy
To keep your nougat fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you’d like to keep it even longer, consider freezing it! Cut the nougat into squares and layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to let it thaw at room temperature before serving.
Pro Tips for Making Easy Gumdrop Nougat Candy
Be Patient with Melting: When melting the ingredients, keep the heat low and don’t rush the process. This helps achieve that creamy consistency you want in your nougat.
Choose Your Gumdrops Wisely: Get a mix of flavors and colors! Not only does it look appealing, but the variety makes each bite a little surprise.
Add Nuts for a Crunch: While this recipe is delightful as it is, you can also add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for a little extra crunch and flavor.
Delicious Variations of Easy Gumdrop Nougat Candy
Feel free to get creative! Here are a few fun ideas to customize your gumdrop nougat:
Use Colored Chocolate: Swap out the white chocolate chips for milk or dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Experiment with Flavors: Instead of vanilla extract, try almond or peppermint extract for a different taste experience.
Mix in Dried Fruits: Consider folding in some dried cranberries or cherries along with the gumdrops for an extra fruity kick.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of candy?
Absolutely! While gumdrops are festive, you can swap them out for other gummy candies or even chocolate bits for a different flavor profile.
2. What should I do if my nougat is too sticky?
If your nougat is sticking to the pan or your hands, dust a little powdered sugar on your surface and hands to make it easier to handle.
3. Can I double this recipe?
Yes! If you’re planning to share a lot of nougat or want to make a larger batch, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan.
So there you have it, friends! Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy is the perfect holiday treat that’ll bring joy and warmth to your celebrations. With its bright colors and delightful flavors, this sweet wonder will be a hit among your friends and family. Happy Baking!
Print
Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy
- Total Time: 145 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and colorful treat combining soft nougat and chewy gumdrops, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups gumdrops, cut in halves
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt the Base Ingredients: In a large saucepan over low heat, combine the mini marshmallows, white chocolate chips, and unsalted butter, stirring until smooth.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Fold in Gumdrops: Gently fold in the halved gumdrops.
- Transfer to Baking Pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and press down lightly.
- Let It Set: Cool at room temperature for at least 120 minutes or until firm.
- Cut into Squares: Lift the nougat out of the pan and cut into squares.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg