Description
Delightfully chewy and filled with festive red and green gumdrops, these Four Ingredient Nougat Bars are a nostalgic treat that’s perfect for the holidays. Simple yet stunning, this recipe uses marshmallows, white chocolate, and gumdrops to create a dessert that’s both easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether as a gift, a party treat, or a sweet indulgence, these bars will add a touch of joy to your celebrations.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Holiday bakers looking for a quick and festive dessert.
- Families seeking kid-friendly activities and treats.
- Anyone craving a no-bake, chewy, and colorful holiday classic.
Why It’s Great
- Minimal Ingredients: Only four simple ingredients required.
- No-Bake Simplicity: Skip the oven and let the nougat set overnight.
- Festive Appeal: Vibrant red and green gumdrops add a holiday flair.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and store for easy holiday planning.
Ingredients
- 2 packages miniature marshmallows
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 packages white chocolate chips
- 1 ½ cups red and green gumdrops, halved
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking dish (8×8-inch or similar)
- Parchment paper
- Medium saucepan
- Heatproof mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cut the gumdrops in half and set them aside.
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring enough overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
2. Set Up the Double Boiler:
- Fill a medium saucepan with water and bring it to a boil.
- Place a heatproof bowl or smaller pan over the boiling water to create a double boiler. Ensure the top bowl doesn’t touch the water.
3. Melt the Base:
- Add the miniature marshmallows, white chocolate chips, and melted butter to the heatproof bowl.
- Stir continuously until all ingredients are fully melted and combined into a smooth, sticky mixture.
4. Fold in the Gumdrops:
- Remove the bowl from the heat.
- Gently fold in the halved gumdrops until evenly distributed.
5. Assemble and Set:
- Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Let the nougat sit overnight at room temperature to set completely.
6. Slice and Serve:
- Once set, lift the nougat out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang.
- Slice into bars of your desired size and enjoy!
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store nougat bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for a firmer texture, lasting up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
FAQ
1. Can I use other types of gumdrops?
Absolutely! You can use any color or flavor of gumdrops, depending on the occasion or personal preference.
2. Can I substitute white chocolate chips?
Yes, almond bark or candy melts are excellent alternatives to white chocolate chips.
3. Is there a way to speed up the setting process?
You can place the dish in the refrigerator for a few hours to speed up the setting, but overnight at room temperature yields the best texture.
4. Can I make these without a double boiler?
Yes, you can melt the ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted.
Conclusion
These Four Ingredient Nougat Bars are a delightful combination of chewy, sweet, and colorful, making them the perfect addition to any dessert table. With their festive appearance and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re sure to become a holiday favorite. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or creating new ones, these bars are a treat everyone will adore.
Make a batch today and spread the holiday cheer!
