There is something truly magical about the holidays when sweet treats bring warmth and joy to every gathering, and this Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe is exactly that kind of magic. Bursting with festive colors from the vibrant red and green gumdrops and layered with creamy white chocolate and marshmallow goodness, this no-bake candy is a delightful mix of chewy and soft textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned candy maker or a holiday newbie, this recipe is straightforward, fun, and perfect for spreading holiday cheer one bite at a time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together effortlessly to create a candy that’s as colorful as it is delicious. Each element adds a unique texture or flavor, giving you that perfect balance of sweetness, chew, and charm that makes this candy so special.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a rich, creamy base that helps smooth out the white chocolate while preventing sticking.
- 2 cups white chocolate chips: The star of the show for creamy sweetness and that luscious melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 (16 oz) bag mini marshmallows: Melts into soft, pillowy nougat, adding both lightness and chewiness.
- 1½ cups red and green gumdrops, chopped: The festive pop of color and chewy bursts of fruity flavor that make this candy unmistakably Christmas.
How to Make Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe
Step 1: Preparing Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides. This simple step helps you lift the nougat out easily once it sets, so you won’t have to wrestle with sticky edges or risk breaking the candy.
Step 2: Melting Butter and White Chocolate
In a large saucepan set over low heat, gently melt the unsalted butter and white chocolate chips together, stirring constantly. This slow melting ensures a smooth, velvety mixture without scorching the chocolate. Patience here will pay off with that beautiful creamy base you want for your candy.
Step 3: Adding Marshmallows for Creaminess
Once your butter and chocolate are melted and combined, stir in the mini marshmallows. Keep stirring until the marshmallows melt completely and the entire mixture becomes luscious and creamy. This marshmallow magic transforms your base into a soft, chewy nougat that’s irresistible.
Step 4: Cooling Before Adding Gumdrops
Remove your saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool for about 5 to 7 minutes. This cooling step is key—it prevents the chopped gumdrops from melting down where they lose their shape and texture. We want those cheery gummy pops bright and intact!
Step 5: Folding in the Gumdrops
Gently fold the chopped red and green gumdrops into the nougat mixture, making sure they’re evenly distributed. This step gives your candy that unmistakable holiday look and bite, with little bursts of fruity fun in every square.
Step 6: Setting the Candy
Pour your gooey, festive mixture into the prepared baking dish and use a spatula to press it down evenly. The smoother and more compact the layer, the easier it is to cut later. Pop the dish into the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until firm to the touch.
Step 7: Cutting Into Squares
After your nougat has completely set, lift it out using the parchment overhang. Use a sharp knife (or kitchen scissors lightly sprayed with cooking oil for cutting gumdrops) to cut the nougat into small, bite-sized squares. Now you’re ready to share or savor!
How to Serve Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive flair, dust your cut squares lightly with powdered sugar or sprinkle some edible glitter to catch the holiday light. You can also add small candy canes crushed over the top for a peppermint crunch contrast. These little touches bring a whimsical holiday spirit to your presentation.
Side Dishes
This nougat candy pairs perfectly with a warm cup of cocoa, a fresh cup of spiced apple cider, or even a robust holiday coffee blend. The creamy sweetness of the candy beautifully balances the warmth and spice of these drinks, making them a perfect duo for cozy festive evenings.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider wrapping individual nougat squares in colorful cellophane tied with twine or ribbon to create adorable homemade gifts. You can also serve the candy on a tiered dessert stand alongside other holiday sweets for an inviting brunch or party spread. The visual pop of the red and green gumdrops will instantly brighten up any holiday table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to save some (which might be tough!), store your leftover Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly sealed, it will stay fresh and chewy for up to two weeks—perfect for enjoying throughout the holiday season.
Freezing
This candy freezes beautifully. For longer storage, arrange squares in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container with parchment sheets between layers. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready for a festive treat that tastes freshly made.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake candy, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. Simply allow frozen nougat to come to room temperature to enjoy that perfect, soft chewy texture. Heating could alter the texture and melt the gumdrops, so it’s best enjoyed as is.
FAQs
Can I substitute the gumdrops with other candies?
Absolutely! While red and green gumdrops give this recipe its classic Christmas look and fruity chew, you can try chopped dried fruit, mini candy pieces, or even crushed peppermint for different flavors and textures. Just be sure the substitutes won’t melt when mixed in.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it uses marshmallows and butter without gelatin from animal sources. However, always check the labels on marshmallows and gumdrops to be sure they meet your dietary needs.
How long does it take to make this candy?
The active prep and cooking time is about 25 minutes, but you need to allow at least 2 hours for chilling in the fridge. It’s a great recipe for a leisurely afternoon when you can let the candy set while you get other holiday tasks done.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it relies on white chocolate, butter, marshmallows, and gumdrops—just check the packaging of each item to ensure there’s no cross-contamination or added gluten ingredients.
What’s the best way to cut the nougat without it sticking?
Use a sharp knife chilled in hot water and wiped dry before cutting to create clean edges. For chopping gumdrops before mixing, kitchen scissors lightly sprayed with cooking spray help avoid sticky fingers and mess.
Final Thoughts
Making this Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe feels like wrapping up the holiday spirit in every colorful square, and it’s one of those recipes that brings pure joy to both the maker and the eaters. It’s simple to prepare, visually stunning, and absolutely delicious—a perfect recipe to share with family, friends, or anyone who loves sweet celebrations. Give it a try this season and watch it become a beloved holiday tradition!
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Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 36 small squares
- Category: Candy, Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy recipe is a delightful no-bake holiday treat featuring creamy white chocolate nougat studded with festive red and green gumdrops. Perfect for holiday parties and gifting, this easy-to-make dessert combines buttery sweetness and chewy candy bites with minimal stovetop preparation and simple refrigeration.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 (16 oz) bag mini marshmallows
- 1½ cups red and green gumdrops (spice drops or fruit-flavored), chopped into small pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal after setting.
- Melt butter and white chocolate: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter and white chocolate chips together, stirring constantly until smooth and fully combined.
- Add marshmallows: Stir in the mini marshmallows and continue stirring over low heat until they are completely melted and the mixture becomes creamy and uniform.
- Cool mixture slightly: Remove the pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool for 5 to 7 minutes to prevent the gumdrops from melting when stirred in.
- Fold in gumdrops: Gently fold the chopped red and green gumdrops evenly into the cooled nougat mixture.
- Set in baking dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it into an even layer using a spatula or your hands.
- Chill until firm: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the nougat is firm enough to slice.
- Cut and serve: Lift the nougat out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into approximately 36 small squares with a sharp knife and serve or store.
Notes
- Use kitchen scissors lightly greased with cooking spray to cut the gumdrops more easily before folding them into the mixture.
- Store the nougat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
- This recipe freezes well; wrap pieces tightly before freezing and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
