When it comes to sweet treats, few can rival the nostalgic joy and delightful chewiness of nougat bars. These easy nougat bars are a perfect blend of creamy white chocolate and colorful gumdrops, creating a festive and fun dessert that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, a party, or simply want to indulge in a sweet homemade snack, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your repertoire.
Ingredients
2 packages of miniature marshmallows
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 packages of white chocolate chips
1 ½ cups red and green gumdrops
How To Make Four Ingredient Nougat Bars
FIRST STEP: Preparation
Prepare the Gumdrops:
Begin by cutting the gumdrops in half. This makes them easier to incorporate into the nougat mixture and ensures a more even distribution throughout the bars.
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Line a baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring there is enough paper hanging over the sides. This will make it easier to lift the nougat out of the dish once it has set.
Boil Water:
Bring a pot of water to a boil on the stove. This pot will be used as the base for a double boiler, allowing for gentle melting of the ingredients without the risk of burning.
SECOND STEP: Melting the Ingredients
Set Up the Double Boiler:
Place a heatproof bowl or another pan over the pot of boiling water. Make sure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water.
Add Ingredients:
Into the top bowl, add the miniature marshmallows, white chocolate chips, and melted butter. The heat from the boiling water below will gently melt these ingredients.
Melt and Stir:
Stir the mixture continuously until all the ingredients are fully melted and combined into a smooth, creamy consistency. This may take a few minutes, so be patient and keep stirring to avoid any lumps.
THIRD STEP: Combining and Setting
Fold in the Gumdrops:
Once the marshmallow mixture is smooth and melted, gently fold in the halved gumdrops. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the gumdrops to be evenly distributed throughout the nougat without losing their shape.
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. The mixture will be sticky, so you may need to work quickly and use a light touch.
Set the Nougat:
Let the nougat sit at room temperature overnight to set. This allows the flavors to meld together and the texture to firm up into a perfect, chewy consistency.
Lift and Cut:
Once the nougat has fully set, use the overhanging parchment paper to lift it out of the baking dish. Place it on a cutting board and cut into bars of your desired size.
Enjoy:
Your easy nougat bars are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them up as a delightful dessert or snack, and watch as they disappear quickly.
Variations & Tips
Colorful Variations:
Seasonal Gumdrops: You can use different colored gumdrops to suit various holidays or themes. For example, use red and green for Christmas, pastel colors for Easter, or orange and black for Halloween.
Chocolate Variations: For a different flavor profile, try using milk or dark chocolate chips instead of white chocolate.
Texture Variations:
Nutty Addition: Add some chopped nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, to the nougat mixture for an extra crunch and a rich, nutty flavor.
Dried Fruits: Incorporate some dried cranberries, cherries, or raisins for a burst of fruity sweetness.
Serving Suggestions:
Gift Idea: These nougat bars make wonderful homemade gifts. Wrap them in decorative cellophane bags and tie with a festive ribbon.
Party Treat: Serve these bars at parties or gatherings as a sweet and chewy treat that both kids and adults will love.
Storage Tips:
Room Temperature: Store the nougat bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week.
Refrigeration: For a firmer texture, you can refrigerate the bars. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving to enhance their chewy goodness.
Conclusion
These easy nougat bars are not just a delightful treat but also a fun and straightforward recipe to make. With only four ingredients, you can create a dessert that is both visually appealing and delicious. Whether you’re preparing them for a festive occasion, a party, or just a simple family treat, these nougat bars are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process of making them and the joy they bring when shared with loved ones!
