If you’re craving a festive, sweet treat that’s as joyful to make as it is to eat, then this Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe is about to become your new holiday obsession. It combines the creamy melt-in-your-mouth goodness of white chocolate and marshmallows with the cheerful chewiness and bright colors of red and green gumdrops, creating a no-bake delight that’s perfect for sharing (or sneaking a few bites yourself). Whether you’re a seasoned holiday baker or just looking for a quick and fun recipe to add to your Christmas spread, this candy offers an effortless way to bring a splash of holiday magic to your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in balancing texture, sweetness, and those eye-catching festive colors that make this candy so irresistible.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds a smooth, rich base that helps melt the white chocolate perfectly.
- White chocolate chips (2 cups): Brings creamy sweetness and that glossy finish that makes nougat so indulgent.
- Mini marshmallows (1 16-ounce bag): These provide the fluffy, chewy texture that defines the nougat experience.
- Red and green gumdrops (1 1/2 cups, cut in half): Infuse the candy with festive colors and fruity bursts of flavor.
- Nonstick spray or parchment paper: Essential for lining the pan, so your nougat releases cleanly and in perfect squares.
How to Make Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly spraying it with nonstick spray. This step ensures your nougat won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze and allowing your candy to come out in perfect squares.
Step 2: Melt Butter and White Chocolate
In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter first, then add the white chocolate chips. Stir constantly to avoid burning until the mixture is mostly melted and smooth. This gentle melting process is key to achieving a silky nougat texture.
Step 3: Add Mini Marshmallows
Once the chocolate is mostly melted, toss in the mini marshmallows. Keep stirring until the marshmallows have completely melted into the mixture, creating a creamy and stretchy base that will bind all your candy pieces together.
Step 4: Fold in the Gumdrops
Remove your saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool for a minute or two to thicken slightly. Then gently fold in the halved red and green gumdrops. This step lets the gumdrops stay intact and evenly distributed throughout the nougat, so every bite gets a fruity burst.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours to firm up. Once set, lift the nougat out using the parchment paper and cut it into delightful little squares that are perfect for gift-giving or holiday snacking.
How to Serve Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to dress up your nougat squares, sprinkle a few extra finely chopped gumdrops or festive sprinkles on top just before chilling. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a snowy holiday feel and an extra touch of sweetness.
Side Dishes
This candy pairs wonderfully with warm beverages like hot cocoa, spiced apple cider, or a creamy eggnog. The softness and sweetness of the nougat provide a lovely contrast to these rich drinks, making any holiday gathering feel even cozier.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider arranging the nougat squares on a festive plate lined with doilies or tissue paper. Wrapping individual squares in colorful wax paper or cellophane tied with ribbon can make charming edible gifts. You can also layer them in clear jars for a beautiful and easy homemade holiday present.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your nougat squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This keeps them soft and chewy while preserving their fresh, sweet flavor. If your kitchen is warm, the refrigerator is a good alternative.
Freezing
You can freeze the candy in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw it at room temperature before serving to restore that perfect chewy nougat texture. Freezing is an excellent option if you want to prepare treats ahead of the holiday rush.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t necessary with this no-bake treat, but if your nougat gets too firm, leave it at room temperature for a bit or give it a quick 5-10 second zap in the microwave on low power to soften before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use different types of candy instead of gumdrops?
Absolutely! Colored fruit slices or mini jelly candies work beautifully as substitutes, providing a similar chewy texture and festive pop of color.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe uses ingredients that are vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no gelatin or animal-derived additives.
Can I make this recipe without white chocolate chips?
White chocolate chips are key to that creamy nougat texture, but you can experiment with white candy melts. Just be sure to melt them gently to avoid graininess.
How long does the candy take to set?
It takes about 2 hours in the refrigerator to fully set and firm up the nougat so you can cut it cleanly into squares.
Is this candy safe for kids to help make?
Definitely! This no-bake recipe is perfect for little helpers since it only involves simple stirring and folding, with no hot oven involved.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever celebrated the holidays without it. The blend of creamy white chocolate, fluffy marshmallows, and bright gumdrops turns holiday candy-making into a joyful, colorful experience that’s as fun to share as it is to make. So gather up your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and get ready to unwrap a little sweetness this season!
Print
Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 36 small squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe is a delightful, no-bake holiday treat featuring creamy white chocolate, melted marshmallows, and festive red and green gumdrops. Perfect for holiday parties or gifting, this candy is simple to prepare and cuts into charming squares that capture the spirit of Christmas with every bite.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 (16 oz) bag mini marshmallows
- 1 1/2 cups red and green gumdrops, cut in half
- Nonstick spray or parchment paper (for lining the pan)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly spray it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and white chocolate chips together, stirring constantly to avoid burning and ensure smooth melting.
- Add Marshmallows: Once the mixture is mostly melted, add the mini marshmallows and continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, creating a creamy nougat base.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool for 1–2 minutes to prevent the gumdrops from melting when added.
- Fold in Gumdrops: Gently fold the halved red and green gumdrops into the nougat mixture, distributing them evenly throughout.
- Set the Candy: Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours, or until the candy is firm and set.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, remove the nougat from the pan, peel off the parchment paper, and cut into 36 small squares for serving.
Notes
- For best results, use gumdrops without sugar coating to avoid an overly sweet or sandy texture.
- You can substitute colored fruit slices or mini jelly candies if gumdrops are unavailable or for variety.
- Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
