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Easy Homemade Nougat Candy – A Sweet Retro Treat

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If you’re a fan of old-fashioned candy, this homemade nougat candy recipe is going to take you on a trip down memory lane. Inspired by the nostalgic jelly nougat candy, this treat blends the creamy texture of nougat with bursts of fruity flavors from gumdrops or Dots candies. And the best part? It’s super easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re whipping it up for a holiday spread or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this nougat candy is sure to be a hit.

nougat candy

Nougat Candy

With only four ingredients and no candy thermometer required, this recipe is perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a quick and delightful candy-making experience. Melting white chocolate and marshmallows together creates that rich, chewy base, while the addition of colorful gumdrops gives it that fun, old-fashioned flair. Plus, the prep time is quick, and all you have to do is let it set in the fridge overnight.

This nougat candy isn’t just a treat—it’s a conversation starter. Guests will rave about its retro look and flavor, and kids will love the vibrant colors and chewy texture. It’s ideal for gifting, sharing at parties, or enjoying all by yourself. If you’ve been searching for a way to recreate that classic jelly nougat at home, this is the recipe for you!

nougat candy

Brach’s Jelly Nougats

Brach’s Jelly Nougats have a long history and are a popular candy that has been enjoyed for many decades. The Brach’s candy company, founded by Emil J. Brach in 1904, has a rich history of producing a variety of confectionery products.

The exact origins of Brach’s Jelly Nougats are not extensively documented, but they likely emerged as part of Brach’s efforts to expand its product line and offer a diverse range of candies. Nougat itself is a chewy confection made from sugar or honey, nuts, and egg white. It has been a traditional candy ingredient for centuries, and variations of nougat have been produced in different cultures.

Brach’s Jelly Nougats typically consist of a chewy nougat center with embedded colorful jelly pieces. The combination of textures and flavors makes them a popular choice among candy lovers. Over the years, Brach’s has maintained its commitment to quality and innovation, introducing new flavors and variations to meet changing consumer preferences.

It’s worth noting that the specifics of the candy’s history, including when it was first introduced and any changes to the recipe over time, might not be readily available in public records. Candy companies often evolve their product lines, adapting to market trends and consumer demands. Nonetheless, Brach’s Jelly Nougats remain a nostalgic and beloved treat for many people.

nougat candy

What You Will Love ABout This Recipe

You’ll love this nougat candy recipe for its simplicity, nostalgic charm, and the delightful combination of textures and flavors. The recipe calls for just four ingredients and takes minimal effort, making it accessible even for beginner candy makers. With the creamy sweetness of white chocolate and marshmallows paired with the chewy, fruity bursts from gumdrops, this treat is both fun to eat and eye-catching.
Additionally, this recipe delivers a delightful throwback to old-fashioned candy shops, bringing back memories of jelly nougat that many people grew up loving. It’s a perfect make-ahead dessert to share with friends and family during holidays or any special occasion. Plus, it’s so customizable—you can mix and match different candy fillings to make it your own.

nougat candy

Ingredients

  • 2 TBSP Butter
  • 16 OZ Bag of Mini Marshmallows
  • 18 OZ White Chocolate Chips
  • 2 Cups Dots or Gumdrops
  • **I made a half sized recipe in the video. The full recipe makes a lot of candies and is perfect for a cookie exchange. If making it just for your family, you can probably half the recipe. I have the measurement noted in the recipe notes section for half of the recipe.

How to Make

Step 1: Start by adding your butter, marshmallows, and chocolate into a microwave-safe bowl. You want to melt the mixture until everything is fully melted. 

Step 2: Then you will stir in your gum drops or dots candy, stir and then pour into the pan as directed. The full directions for this recipe are in the printable recipe card below. 

How Long Does It Take This Candy To Set Up 

I refrigerate this nougat in the fridge overnight. You want the gumdrop nougat to firm up a bit. Or if you go to cut it, the mixture will be too soft and not hold its shape. 

nougat candy

If you want to speed up the setting up you can place in the freezer for a short while. But, in general, it is best to plan to make this a day in advance of when you plan to serve it up. 

nougat candy

What Can You Use Instead of Dots Candy or Gumdrops When Making Nougat Candy


Nougat candy recipes often include various mix-ins such as nuts, dried fruits, or candies like dots. If you’re looking for alternatives to dots candy in nougat, you can get creative and customize the recipe to suit your taste. Here are some alternatives you can consider:


Chopped Nuts: Almonds, pistachios, walnuts, or hazelnuts can add a nice crunch and flavor to nougat.
Dried Fruits: Chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or raisins can provide a sweet and chewy texture.
Chocolate Chips or Chunks: Use white, milk, or dark chocolate chips or chunks to add a rich and indulgent element to the nougat.
Caramel Bits: Incorporate small caramel bits for a gooey and caramel-flavored twist.
Candied Citrus Peel: Finely chopped candied orange or lemon peel can add a citrusy flavor and chewy texture.
Toffee Bits: Crushed toffee bits can contribute a buttery and toffee-like taste.
Coconut Flakes: Toasted or untoasted coconut flakes can add a tropical flavor and a bit of texture.
Pretzel Pieces: Crushed pretzel pieces can bring a salty and crunchy contrast to the nougat.
Cookie Pieces: Crushed cookies, such as shortbread or graham crackers, can add both texture and flavor.
Dried Cherries or Blueberries: These can provide a burst of fruity flavor and a chewy texture.


Feel free to experiment with different combinations to create a nougat that suits your preferences. Keep in mind that the size and texture of the mix-ins can affect the overall consistency of the nougat, so adjust accordingly based on your desired outcome.

nougat candy

Can I still make this if I do not have a microwave

Yes, you can make nougat candy even if you don’t have a microwave! Simply melt the butter, marshmallows, and white chocolate chips on the stovetop.

Here’s how:
Use a double boiler (or create one by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water).
Add the butter, marshmallows, and white chocolate chips to the bowl.
Stir constantly until everything melts and combines smoothly.
Once fully melted, follow the same steps as in the recipe: stir in the gumdrops and pour into a lined baking dish to cool.
Just make sure to keep the heat low and stir frequently to avoid burning.

Tips For Cutting Candy Nougat 

The one thing I found when cutting candy nougat is having a really sharp knife is helpful. You will want to make sure it is nice and sharp so when you slice into the gumdrops it gives you that clean cut. Otherwise, you might find your knife gets stuck and can kind of mess up the look of the candy. 

nougat candy

Tips & Tricks

  • Gumdrops & Dots: If you prefer a less sweet option, use fewer gumdrops or experiment with dried fruit like cranberries or apricots to add a tart, chewy contrast. Be sure to chop larger candies into small pieces for even distribution.
  • Microwaving Tips: When melting the marshmallows and chocolate, go slow. Overheating can cause the chocolate to seize or the marshmallows to burn. Stir frequently to ensure everything blends smoothly.
  • Use Non-Stick Parchment: Line your baking dish with parchment paper to make sure your nougat easily lifts out of the pan. This prevents sticking and makes cutting into squares a breeze.
  • Chill Time: Be sure to refrigerate the nougat overnight to allow it to set completely. If you’re in a hurry, pop it in the freezer for a few hours, but don’t skip this step—it helps the candy hold its shape when cutting.
  • Presentation Matters: For a festive look, use brightly colored gumdrops to match the season. Red and green for Christmas, pastel for Easter, or even black and orange for Halloween!
nougat candy

 

FAQs about cheesecloth

Yes! You can substitute gumdrops with Dots, jelly beans, or even dried fruits like cranberries or apricots. Choose candies that won’t melt too much in the mixture.

Lining your baking dish with parchment paper is key. It ensures easy removal and makes cutting into squares much simpler.

Absolutely! If you prefer, melt the marshmallows, butter, and white chocolate in a double boiler on low heat, stirring continuously until smooth.

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, nougat candy can last for up to two weeks. For the best texture, allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Yes, you can freeze it! Just wrap the nougat tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. When ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge or at room temperature for best results.

How to Store 

Get your pieces sliced, smaller sized slices is best. This is a pretty sweet candy. Then you can place in an airtight container. If you go to stack put parchment or wax paper in between the layers so they don’t stick together. 

If you don’t do that, you will find your nougat all sticks together. I then store it in the fridge, or place in the freezer if you want to store it for a longer period of time! 

nougat candy

You can let the candy warm up to room temperature before eating if you don’t want to eat it cold from the fridge. 

nougat candy

Does This Recipe Double 

Go right ahead and double this nougat gumdrop recipe if you need. Just grab an extra pan or larger pan for it to set up in. Then slice and serve as you normally would! 

I have also included the measurements for a half recipe in the notes section of the recipe card. I recommend using a full recipe if you need a lot for a cookie exchange, etc. If you are making for just your family and or a small family gathering, you can probably use the half recipe.

nougat candy long pin

I have done this when we are having guests over for events or the holidays. This is one of the first candies to disappear! 

nougat candy
nougat candy
nougat candy

Nougat Candy

Nougat candy is a festive and colorful candy that is very popular around Christmas time. Gumdrop nougat is sweet, creamy, and so addictive. I bet you can’t eat just one slice of this sweet no-bake candy.

Ingredients

  • 2 TBSP Butter
  • 16 OZ Bag of Mini Marshmallows
  • 18 OZ White Chocolate Chips
  • 2 Cups Dots or Gumdrops

Instructions

    1. In a large bowl, pour in your chocolate chips. Add the mini marshmallows & the butter.
    2. Place bowl in the microwave. Microwave 90 seconds. Remove the bowl and stir to help combine the ingredients. Place back in the microwave and microwave in 15 second increments, stirring after each time. You do not want to over microwave, use a spatula to help mix the chocolate & marshmallows to reach a smooth consistency.
    3. Add in the dots or gumdrops. Use a spatula to combine.
    4. Pour into a 9 X 13 baking dish lined with parchment paper.
    5. Refrigerate overnight. Cut into squares. Enjoy!

Notes

**You can do a half recipe by using a 10oz bag of mini marshmallows, 11oz bag of mini chocolate chips, 1 cup of dots, and 1 TBSP Butter. Spread into a 7x11 dish or slightly smaller.

***I got about 40 pieces from the half-sized recipe.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

20

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 292Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 58mgCarbohydrates: 52gFiber: 0gSugar: 39gProtein: 2g

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16 Comments

  1. Can you individually wrap the candy and store at room temperature? Thinking of doing this for a cookie exchange and not everyone will put in fridge when the get home.

    1. Yes! that will be fine. You can store at room temperature either individually wrapped or in an air tight container at room temperature. 🙂

  2. Omg! Just by looking at them give me a flashback, when I was a little girl, my mom and I used to eat some candies that looked just like this one’s, buy never new the name/recipe and I haven’t seen them since 20+ years ago… I’m so excited, need to try this recipe and find out if this are the ones I used to love!!!

    1. you really dont need to cut them in advance. When you slice the final product the gum drops/dots will slice perfectly. Just make sure you nougat is good and cold when you go to slice it into pieces.

  3. What would be a good addition to this nougat other than Dots or jelly candy? This is delicious, but wondered if a nut or cherries might work as well?

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