“Introduction”

Making Jelly Nougat Candy is an experience that transports me back to my childhood. The colorful gumdrops, the sweet chewy nougat base, and the creamy white chocolate all come together to form a nostalgic treat that I can’t get enough of. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and I love how easy it is to make, yet how impressive it looks once it’s done. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or just looking for a sweet snack, Jelly Nougat Candy is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s bright, chewy, and irresistibly nostalgic—a perfect treat for sharing with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love Jelly Nougat Candy

Nostalgic Flavor: If you’ve ever had a jelly nougat candy before, this homemade version will remind you of those classic sweets you loved as a kid.
Chewy and Sweet: The combination of gooey marshmallows, creamy white chocolate, and chewy gumdrops creates the perfect texture and sweetness.
Colorful and Fun: The gumdrops add a pop of color, making this candy a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds.
Easy to Make: With only four ingredients and simple steps, this is a great candy recipe even for beginners.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a gift for someone special or a treat for a party, Jelly Nougat Candy is easy to portion and share.

Ingredients

4 tablespoons butter
20 ounces mini marshmallows
4 cups white chocolate chips
2 cups gumdrops, cut into small pieces

Instructions

Prepare the Gumdrops:
- Begin by chopping the gumdrops into small pieces, aiming for bite-sized chunks. Set them aside in a bowl.
- Tip: Lightly dust the gumdrop pieces with powdered sugar to prevent them from sticking together.
Melt the Base Ingredients:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the mini marshmallows to the saucepan, stirring constantly. Let them melt completely, forming a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Gradually add the white chocolate chips to the melted marshmallow mixture, stirring until everything is fully melted and incorporated. The result should be a thick, smooth base.
Add the Gumdrops:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly for about 2 minutes.
- Gently fold the prepared gumdrop pieces into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.
Shape the Candy:
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared dish and use a spatula to spread it out evenly. Press it down gently to make sure it’s smooth and compact.
Chill and Cut:
- Place the dish in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, allowing the nougat to firm up.
- Once the candy is set and firm, remove it from the dish and peel off the parchment paper.
- Cut the candy into small squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: ~24 pieces
Calories per serving: Approximately 160 kcal

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes to 2 hours 20 minutes

How to Serve

As a treat for parties: Jelly Nougat Candy makes a colorful and fun addition to any party spread.
Gift wrapping: Cut into small squares and package them in a cute box or bag to give as a sweet homemade gift.
With tea or coffee: Pair with your favorite hot beverage for a sweet afternoon snack.
At holidays or family gatherings: This candy’s bright colors make it a perfect addition to any holiday table or family event.
For snack time: Keep some on hand for a quick treat whenever the sweet tooth strikes.

Additional Tips

Use a variety of gumdrop colors: Choose a mix of colors to create a visually appealing candy that stands out.
Store in an airtight container: To keep the candy fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Substitute other chewy candies: If gumdrops aren’t your favorite, try using diced fruit-flavored jelly beans or chopped gummy bears for a different twist.
Make it festive: Add edible glitter or sprinkles on top before chilling for a more festive look.
Try adding nuts: For some extra crunch, add chopped almonds, pecans, or cashews to the nougat mixture.

FAQ

1. Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, you can use regular marshmallows. Just chop them into smaller pieces to help them melt evenly.

2. Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate chips?
Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate chips if you prefer a richer flavor.

3. How long does Jelly Nougat Candy last?
When stored in an airtight container, Jelly Nougat Candy can last for up to a week at room temperature.

4. Can I use homemade marshmallow fluff for this recipe?
Yes, homemade marshmallow fluff can be used in place of mini marshmallows, though the texture might be slightly different.

5. How can I prevent the gumdrops from sticking together?
Dusting the gumdrops with powdered sugar will prevent them from sticking. You can also coat them with a light layer of cornstarch.

6. Can I freeze Jelly Nougat Candy?
Yes, you can freeze Jelly Nougat Candy. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, and freeze for up to a month.

7. What if I don’t have an 8×8-inch pan?
You can use a smaller or larger pan, but adjust the thickness of the candy accordingly. A smaller pan will result in thicker pieces, while a larger one will spread the mixture thinner.

8. Can I add more gumdrops?
Yes, you can increase the amount of gumdrops if you prefer a more colorful and chewy candy. Just make sure to fold them in gently.

9. Can I use coconut in this recipe?
Yes, coconut can be added if you like. Just stir in shredded coconut when you mix the gumdrops in.

10. Can I make this recipe with kids?
This recipe is perfect for making with kids! They can help with adding the gumdrops and shaping the candy. Just be sure to handle the hot mixture yourself.

Conclusion

Jelly Nougat Candy is a bright, chewy, and irresistibly fun treat that will bring joy to any occasion. It’s easy to make, colorful, and customizable, making it an ideal recipe for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re preparing a batch for a special occasion, a gift, or simply because you crave something sweet, Jelly Nougat Candy is a delightful way to indulge in a nostalgic, homemade treat. Try it today and experience the joy of making a simple yet delicious candy that’s sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it!