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Homemade Jelly Nougat Candy brings back childhood memories with its velvety blend of white chocolate and marshmallows mixed with fruity, chewy gumdrops. It's just what you need for a sweet treat to share at any gathering, particularly during holiday times.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
- 4 tbsp butter: Gives a smooth richness and helps blend everything together nicely.
- 4 cups white chocolate chips: Forms the dreamy, creamy foundation of this sweet treat.
- 20 oz mini marshmallows: These turn into the soft, stretchy part of your nougat.
- 2 cups gumdrops: Cut into small bits, they add bright colors and fruity bursts throughout the candy.
HOW TO MAKE IT
- Step 7:
- Slice the set nougat into bite-sized squares and enjoy.
- Step 6:
- Let the nougat chill in the fridge overnight until it's completely firm. When ready, grab the overhanging parchment to lift the whole block out, then take off the top paper layer.
- Step 5:
- Dump your mixture into the lined pan. Put another piece of parchment on top and use your palms to flatten it all out evenly.
- Step 4:
- Get a 9x13 baking dish and line it with parchment paper, leaving extra hanging over the sides so you can pull it out later. Spray the paper lightly with cooking spray.
- Step 3:
- Mix in your chopped gumdrops so they're spread all through the nougat mixture.
- Step 2:
- Throw in the white chocolate chips and pop it back in the microwave for 30 seconds. Stir until everything's blended into a sticky, smooth mix. If needed, give it another 30 seconds in the microwave, stirring now and then.
- Step 1:
- Put butter and mini marshmallows in a big microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1 minute, stir, then zap it another minute. Keep stirring until the butter and marshmallows are totally mixed together.
Keeping It Fresh
- Pop the candy in an airtight container and keep it in your fridge for up to a week.
- When giving as presents, wrap pieces in wax paper or pack them in cute tins for a special touch.
- This candy tastes best when it's cold from the fridge or just slightly warmed to room temp for that perfect chew.
Smart Suggestions
- Don't rush mixing the butter and marshmallows before adding white chocolate chips or you'll end up with lumps.
- Any gumdrops will work, but cutting them small helps spread the flavor throughout your candy.
- Be patient and let your nougat sit in the fridge all night before you try to cut it into pieces.
Pro chef advice
- Ina Garten says to grab the fancy white chocolate for a richer, smoother nougat texture.
- Martha Stewart thinks a tiny bit of sea salt makes all the sweetness taste even better.
- Jamie Oliver likes to throw in some chopped nuts to give your teeth something extra to crunch on.
REASONS TO TRY IT
- You won't need fancy skills or hard-to-find stuff to make it.
- The mix of smooth white chocolate, puffy marshmallows, and fruity gumdrops brings back the good old days.
- It's great for taking to parties, family get-togethers, or wrapping up as handmade gifts.
MIX IT UP
- Toss in some chopped almonds or pecans for a bit of crunch and nutty flavor.
- Switch out gumdrops for jelly beans if you want something different but still fun.
- Pick only red and green gumdrops when Christmas comes around to match the holiday mood.