Easy Homemade Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy
Let me share my favorite holiday candy recipe that brings back sweet memories. This simple homemade gumdrop nougat is pure Christmas magic - soft chewy nougat studded with colorful red and green gumdrops. It's an easy no-bake treat that looks festive and tastes amazing. Best of all? This recipe is so simple the whole family can help make it.
Why You'll Love This Easy Recipe
This simple homemade candy will become your holiday favorite because:
- It's an easy no-bake recipe perfect for busy holiday seasons
- Those bright gumdrops make it look professionally made
- Makes wonderful homemade gifts everyone loves
- The chewy nougat and fruity gumdrops are impossible to resist
Easy Ingredients for Homemade Gumdrop Nougat
- Mini Marshmallows: These melt into the perfect chewy nougat base for our easy recipe.
- White Chocolate Chips: Makes our homemade nougat extra creamy and rich.
- Unsalted Butter: Helps everything melt together smoothly in this simple recipe.
- Red and Green Gumdrops: The festive stars of our homemade candy show.
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions
- Simple Melting Magic
- Start by melting your butter in a big saucepan over low heat. Add those marshmallows and white chocolate chips, stirring constantly until everything's smooth and creamy. Keep the heat low - we don't want anything to burn.
- Add Those Pretty Gumdrops
- Once everything's melted, fold in your chopped gumdrops. They'll look like little jewels scattered throughout the nougat. Give it a good stir to spread them evenly.
- Easy Spreading
- Pour this gorgeous mixture into your lined pan. Here's a tip - press it down with greased parchment paper to get a nice even layer without sticky fingers.
- Chill Time
- Pop your pan in the fridge and let it set up. A few hours works but overnight is even better for perfect slicing.
- Slice and Share
- Once it's firm, lift it out using the parchment paper edges. Cut into squares with a sharp knife - they're ready to share and enjoy!
Tips for Easy Success
- Greased Paper Trick: This simple step makes pressing down the nougat so much easier.
- Patient Chilling: Let it set completely for the cleanest cuts on your homemade candy.
- Sharp Knife Success: A clean sharp knife makes cutting this easy recipe a breeze.
Simple Storage Tips
Keep your homemade nougat in an airtight container and it'll stay fresh for a week. Want to make it ahead? Layer pieces between parchment paper and freeze for up to 3 months. Just let them warm up for an hour before serving.
A Sweet Easy Holiday Treat
This simple homemade gumdrop nougat brings holiday cheer to any dessert table or gift box. The combination of soft nougat and chewy gumdrops makes everyone smile. Whether you're giving them as gifts or enjoying them yourself, this easy recipe spreads joy with every colorful piece.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why use double boiler?
- Prevents burning and ensures smooth melting of chocolate and marshmallows.
- → Why avoid Chipits brand?
- They don't melt properly - use real white chocolate chips only.
- → How do I prevent sticking?
- Use parchment between layers when storing and for pressing mixture into pan.
- → Can I use different candy?
- Yes, experiment with different colored gumdrops or similar candies.
- → How long does it keep?
- Stores well in airtight container with parchment between layers.