Why make this recipe
Christmas Gumdrop Nougat is not just a treat; it’s a festive tradition that brings smiles and warmth to any holiday gathering. This delightful candy combines the chewy texture of marshmallows with the sweetness of white chocolate and the charming burst of gumdrops. It’s not only beautiful but also delicious, making it a perfect gift for friends, family, or even as a special treat for yourself. With its vibrant colors, this nougat captures the spirit of the holidays and is sure to be a hit at your Christmas dessert table.
Making this nougat is a straightforward process and doesn’t require advanced baking skills. It’s an easy recipe that you can whip up even if you’re a novice in the kitchen. Because of its cheerful appearance and delightful flavor, this nougat can easily become part of your family’s holiday traditions for years to come. Whether you’re celebrating with loved ones or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this treat is sure to add a touch of sweetness to your festive celebrations.
How to make Christmas Gumdrop Nougat
Creating Christmas Gumdrop Nougat is a fun and enjoyable project that the whole family can participate in. Gather your ingredients and follow these simple steps to bring this delicious holiday treat to life.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted sweet cream butter
- 24 ounces white chocolate chips
- 20 ounces mini marshmallows
- 1 cup red dot candy, cut in half
- 1 cup green dot candy, cut in half
Directions:
Prepare the baking dish: Line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the nougat once it’s set.
Melt the mixture: In a double boiler, combine the butter, white chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows. Stir the mixture occasionally until everything is fully melted and smooth.
Mix in the gumdrops: Remove the melted mixture from heat and fold in the halved red and green dot candies. This is where the nougat gets its festive colors!
Pour into the baking dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle a few extra gumdrops on top to give it a decorative finish.
Cool and set: Allow the nougat to cool at room temperature for several hours, or overnight, until it is fully set.
Cut and store: Once set, cut the nougat into 1 ½ inch pieces. Store in an air-tight food storage container to keep it fresh.
Nutritional Benefits
While Christmas Gumdrop Nougat is definitely a treat best enjoyed in moderation, it does have some nutritional aspects to consider.
- White chocolate provides a sweet base that can give you a quick energy boost.
- Marshmallows can be a source of fun carbohydrates, perfect for a sugary treat.
- Gumdrops usually contain some vitamins, especially if they are made with real fruit juice.
Though it’s a sweets-heavy recipe, sharing a few pieces during the holidays is a wonderful way to enjoy the spirit of the season.
What to Serve With Christmas Gumdrop Nougat
Christmas Gumdrop Nougat can be served in many delightful ways. Here are some ideas:
- Hot Chocolate: Pair this chewy treat with a warm cup of hot chocolate. The sweetness of the nougat complements the rich flavors of the cocoa.
- Tea or Coffee: Enjoy it alongside a nice cup of tea or coffee. The chocolates contrast beautifully with the bitterness of these beverages.
- Gift Baskets: Include the nougat in homemade gift baskets with cookies, chocolates, and other holiday goodies.
- Dessert Table: Set it in the center of your holiday dessert table. It adds color and variety alongside pies, cakes, and other confections.
Why You’ll Love This
- Festive Colors: The red and green gumdrops make this nougat visually pleasing for the Christmas season.
- Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make it accessible for any skill level.
- Customizable: You can adjust the types of candy you use, making it unique to your taste.
- Great for Sharing: Perfect for families or gatherings, it encourages sharing and joy among friends and family.
How to Store Christmas Gumdrop Nougat
To keep your Christmas Gumdrop Nougat fresh, be sure to store it properly. Follow these simple steps:
- Air-tight Container: Use an air-tight food storage container to keep the nougat from drying out.
- Cool, Dry Place: Keep the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Refrigeration: If you want to store it for a longer period, you can refrigerate it. However, it’s best served at room temperature for optimal texture and flavor.
Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
- Be Mindful of Heat: When melting the chocolate and marshmallows, make sure not to overheat the mixture. Stir continually to prevent burning.
- Cutting the Nougat: Use a sharp knife that you have warmed slightly under hot water. This minimizes sticking and helps you achieve clean cuts.
- Waiting for It to Set: Patience is key! Make sure to let the nougat set completely before cutting into it, or it may fall apart.
- Ingredients Variety: If you can’t find specific gumdrops, feel free to swap in other types of candies like M&Ms or chocolate-covered nuts.
Variation
While the festive gumdrop version is always a hit, there are many fun ways to customize this nougat to suit your preferences:
- Nutty Nougat: Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Dried Fruits: Replace gumdrops with dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots for a different flavor.
- Flavored Chocolate: Use dark chocolate or milk chocolate instead of white to change the sweetness level.
- Add Spice: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor, giving a warm spice note to your nougat.
FAQs
1. How long does Christmas Gumdrop Nougat last?
It can last for about 1-2 weeks when stored in an air-tight container at room temperature. If refrigerated, it may last up to a month.
2. Can I freeze Christmas Gumdrop Nougat?
Yes! You can freeze the nougat for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in an air-tight container. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
3. What can I use if I don’t have a double boiler?
You can create a makeshift double boiler by placing a heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water. Just ensure the bowl does not touch the water.
Enjoy making this delicious Candy, and may it bring joy to your holiday celebrations!
Print
Christmas Gumdrop Nougat
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful holiday treat that combines chewy marshmallows, white chocolate, and festive gumdrops for a cheerful nougat perfect for gift-giving and celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted sweet cream butter
- 24 ounces white chocolate chips
- 20 ounces mini marshmallows
- 1 cup red dot candy, cut in half
- 1 cup green dot candy, cut in half
Instructions
- Line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a double boiler, combine the butter, white chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and fold in the halved red and green dot candies.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly, adding a few extra gumdrops on top.
- Allow the nougat to cool at room temperature for several hours, or overnight, until fully set.
- Once set, cut into 1½ inch pieces and store in an air-tight container.
Notes
For best results, allow nougat to set completely before cutting. Store in a cool, dry place to keep it fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
