If you are hunting for a delightful holiday treat that is both fun to make and irresistibly tasty, you have to try this Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of sweet, chewy nougat studded with colorful gumdrops that instantly bring festive joy with every bite. The simplicity of this recipe makes it a great project to share with family or friends, and the final candy looks like it belongs on the fanciest holiday dessert table. Trust me, this easy and colorful candy will become a beloved seasonal staple you’ll want to make year after year!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients sets you up for success in crafting a smooth, flavorful nougat packed with texture and festive flair. Each component plays a vital role in the candy’s irresistible taste, texture, and Christmas-worthy colors.
- Mini marshmallows (1 1/2 cups): The base of the nougat, offering chewiness and sweetness with melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Adds richness and helps create that smooth, luscious nougat consistency.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Balances the sweetness and keeps the mixture creamy for easy stirring and spreading.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Brings warmth and depth, enhancing all the other flavors beautifully.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the nougat, giving it structure.
- Gumdrops (1 1/2 cups, chopped): Bursts of fruity flavor and vibrant color to cheer up every piece.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1 cup, optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness for those who love texture contrast.
How to Make Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by lining a 9×9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or give it a light greasing. This step ensures your nougat won’t stick, making it super easy to remove once set and keeps your pieces neat and clean.
Step 2: Melt the Marshmallows and Butter
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter first. As soon as it’s fully melted, toss in your mini marshmallows and milk. Keep stirring constantly to help the marshmallows melt evenly and create a silky, smooth base that’s perfect for mixing in the remaining ingredients.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Powdered Sugar
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to pack in that cozy aroma. Gradually sift and add the powdered sugar, stirring steadily until it forms a thick, smooth mixture that holds together beautifully without getting too stiff.
Step 4: Add Gumdrops and Nuts
Now the fun part—stir in your chopped gumdrops and nuts (if you’re using them). The gumdrops add bursts of fruity sweetness and festive red and green pops of color, while the nuts contribute lovely crunch and earthiness, balancing the chewy nougat perfectly.
Step 5: Spread in the Pan and Set
Pour your vibrant nougat mixture into the prepared pan. Spread it out evenly and press lightly to smooth the top for an even thickness. Set the pan aside at room temperature for at least 2 hours to firm up; you can also speed things along by popping it in the refrigerator.
Step 6: Cut and Serve
Once your candy has fully set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into small squares or bars, perfect for gifting or snacking. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container to keep fresh.
How to Serve Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe
Garnishes
For a festive touch, sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar or tiny edible glitter on top before cutting. Adding a few whole gumdrops or a drizzle of white chocolate on each piece makes the presentation pop and brings even more holiday cheer.
Side Dishes
This chewy nougat candy pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea, perfectly balancing the sweetness with warmth from the drink. It also goes well alongside crunchy holiday cookies or pumpkin bread to create a diverse dessert platter.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual pieces in colorful cellophane and tie with holiday ribbons for adorable party favors. You can also layer the nougat squares with red and green candies in a decorative holiday tin, creating a beautiful edible gift your loved ones will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your gumdrop nougat candy in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain chewiness and freshness for up to one week. Keeping the container sealed prevents moisture from making your candy sticky.
Freezing
To keep your Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe fresh longer, wrap pieces individually in wax paper and place them in an airtight freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to three months and thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
This candy is best enjoyed at room temperature. If it feels too firm after refrigeration or freezing, let it sit out for 15-20 minutes to soften naturally. Avoid reheating in a microwave as it can melt the gumdrops and change the texture.
FAQs
Can I use larger marshmallows instead of mini ones?
Yes, but be sure to chop the larger marshmallows into small pieces so they melt evenly, preventing clumps in your nougat.
Is it necessary to use nuts?
Not at all. Nuts add texture and flavor, but you can leave them out or substitute with seeds or dried fruit if preferred.
Can I substitute gumdrops with other candies?
Absolutely! Candied cherries or chopped jelly beans work well to add color and sweetness similar to gumdrops.
How long does the candy take to set?
It usually takes at least 2 hours at room temperature, but chilling in the fridge can reduce the time to about 1 hour.
Will this candy be sticky if I store it improperly?
Yes, exposure to air and humidity can make the nougat sticky, so always keep it sealed in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
Making this Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe is truly a joyful holiday experience that results in a festive treat everyone will love. It’s simple enough for even last-minute dessert plans but impressive in flavor and presentation. Give it a try this season and watch your friends and family light up with each colorful, chewy bite!
Print
Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe is a delightful homemade treat perfect for the holiday season. Soft and chewy nougat is packed with colorful gumdrops and crunchy nuts, making it a festive and tasty candy that’s simple to prepare in just 15 minutes and requires no baking.
Ingredients
Nougat Base
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Add-ins
- 1 1/2 cups gumdrops, chopped into small pieces
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the nougat from sticking.
- Melt the Marshmallows and Butter: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and milk, stirring continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Vanilla and Powdered Sugar: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, then gradually sift in the powdered sugar, stirring constantly until the mixture is thick, smooth, and fully combined.
- Add Gumdrops and Nuts: Fold the chopped gumdrops and nuts (if using) into the nougat mixture until evenly distributed.
- Spread in the Pan: Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly and press down lightly to smooth the top surface.
- Cool and Set: Let the nougat cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours or refrigerate to speed up the setting process until firm.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, cut the nougat into small squares or bars. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container to keep fresh.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or pecans.
- You can substitute gumdrops with other colorful chewy candies if preferred.
- Store nougat in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Pressing the mixture firmly in the pan helps achieve a better texture for cutting.
- Using parchment paper in the pan makes removal of nougat easier after setting.
