INTRODUCTION
Gumdrop Nougat Bars are a nostalgic, chewy candy treat often enjoyed during holidays but delicious all year round. Combining soft nougat with colorful, fruity gumdrops, these bars are simple to make and perfect for gifting, snacking, or adding to dessert trays.
DESCRIPTION
These bars have a creamy, marshmallow-based nougat base filled with chewy gumdrop pieces. They set into a firm but tender texture that slices cleanly and looks beautiful with scattered pops of color. No oven needed—just melt, mix, and chill.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups white chocolate chips
• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ cups fruit-flavored gumdrops (cut into halves or quarters; avoid sugar-coated jellies, use baking-friendly gumdrops)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Cut the gumdrops into halves or quarters, then lightly coat them with a small amount of powdered sugar so they don’t stick together. Set aside.
3. In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
4. Add the white chocolate chips and stir continuously until melted and smooth.
5. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until fully melted into the mixture.
6. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Allow the mixture to cool for 3–5 minutes; it should still be warm but not hot enough to melt the gumdrops.
8. Fold in the gumdrops until evenly distributed.
9. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and press gently to level the top.
10. Refrigerate for 2–3 hours, or until completely firm.
11. Remove from the pan and cut into bars or squares.
TIPS
• Always let the nougat cool slightly before adding gumdrops to prevent colors from bleeding.
• Use fresh, soft gumdrops—not firm or sugar-crusted candies.
• Line the pan well; the mixture can be sticky.
• Cut with a sharp knife lightly coated in cooking spray for clean slices.
VARIATIONS
• Coconut Gumdrop Nougat: Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the mixture.
• Almond Version: Add ½ teaspoon almond extract instead of vanilla.
• Holiday Colors: Use only red and green gumdrops for a festive look.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the finished bars for contrast.
CORRECTION (Common Mistakes to Avoid)
• Do not overheat the white chocolate or it may seize. Melt on low heat only.
• Don’t add gumdrops too early; the heat will melt them and create streaks.
• Avoid using sugar-coated jellies—they dissolve and ruin the texture.
• Make sure the mixture sets fully before slicing to prevent sticking.
ENJOY
Serve chilled or at room temperature. These bars store well in an airtight container and are ideal for sharing, gifting, or enjoying as a sweet treat any time.