Jelly Nougat Recipe

If you are searching for a delightful treat that is as fun to make as it is to eat, this Jelly Nougat Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Bursting with chewy, sweet marshmallow, smooth white baking chips, and vibrant bursts of jelly gumdrops, this candy is a perfect blend of creamy, fruity, and buttery flavors. It’s surprisingly simple to whip up, making it an ideal homemade confection for parties, gifts, or any time you want to indulge your sweet tooth with a bit of nostalgic joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All it takes to create this delightful Jelly Nougat Recipe are a few straightforward ingredients that come together to create a luscious texture and a perfectly sweet taste. Each element contributes something special, from creamy richness to chewy bursts of flavor.

• Salted butter: Adds a smooth richness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
• White baking chips: Provide a creamy, sweet foundation that melts seamlessly into the nougat.
• Mini marshmallows: The key to the chewy, fluffy texture that makes nougat so irresistible.
• Butter or pan spray: Essential for greasing your pan and hands, ensuring the mixture doesn’t stick while you press it flat.
• Gumdrops: These colorful jelly candies give the nougat its signature fruity bursts and festive flair.

How to Make Jelly Nougat Recipe

Step 1: Get Ready to Work Quickly

Before you start, make sure all your ingredients and tools are prepared and within reach. Once the nougat mixture is combined, you’ll need to move swiftly to spread it evenly in the pan before it sets.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Grease a 9×12 inch pan thoroughly with butter or a non-stick pan spray. This step is essential to prevent sticking and makes it easier to remove the nougat once it’s set.

Step 3: Melt Butter

In a large microwave-safe glass bowl, melt the salted butter. This starts the process of creating that rich, creamy base for your nougat.

Step 4: Combine Baking Chips and Marshmallows

Add the white baking chips and mini marshmallows to the melted butter. These two ingredients will transform the mixture into a smooth, sticky consistency.

Step 5: Heat and Stir to Melt

Microwave the mixture for 90 seconds, then stir well. Continue microwaving in 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until everything is just melted and combined. This careful melting prevents burning and ensures smooth texture.

Step 6: Fold in the Gumdrops

Quickly stir in the colorful jelly gumdrops. Their fruity sweetness and chewy texture add a surprising delight to every bite of your Jelly Nougat Recipe.

Step 7: Press into Pan

Using greased hands or a spatula, scrape the mixture into the prepared pan and press it flat evenly. This shapes the nougat and helps it set properly.

Step 8: Cool and Set

Allow the nougat to cool and firm up completely. For faster setting, pop the pan into the refrigerator, but let it reach room temperature before cutting to avoid crumbling.

Step 9: Cut and Wrap

Once firm, cut the nougat into 60 small rectangular pieces. Wrap each piece carefully in candy wrappers or squares of wax paper to keep them fresh and ready for sharing.

How to Serve Jelly Nougat Recipe

Garnishes

Add a light dusting of powdered sugar or finely chopped nuts over each piece to add a decorative touch and extra texture contrast, making the nougat even more inviting.

Side Dishes

Jelly nougat pairs beautifully with hot beverages like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, where the warm drinks complement the candy’s sweet, chewy texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider arranging the nougat pieces in a festive holiday tin, or layer them with other candies in a glass jar for a colorful, homemade gift. You could even thread them on skewers along with fresh fruit for a playful dessert display at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Jelly Nougat Recipe pieces in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain freshness and chewiness.

Freezing

If you want to save nougat for longer, wrap individual pieces tightly and place them in a freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature.

Reheating

Reheating isn’t usually necessary, but if your nougat becomes too firm, gently warm it for a few seconds in the microwave to soften before serving. Be careful not to melt it completely.

FAQs

Can I use other types of baking chips in this Jelly Nougat Recipe?

Absolutely! While white baking chips are traditional for their smooth sweetness, you can try milk or dark chocolate chips for a twist on flavor. Just keep in mind it will change the nougat’s flavor and color.

What type of gumdrops work best?

Any small, chewy jelly gumdrops work well. Using assorted colors and flavors will add the most festive and flavorful pops throughout the nougat.

Is it necessary to use butter, or can I substitute?

Butter is preferred for its flavor and texture. However, you can substitute with margarine or coconut oil, though this may slightly alter the taste and consistency of the nougat.

Can I make this Jelly Nougat Recipe without a microwave?

Yes, you can melt the butter, chips, and marshmallows on a double boiler on the stovetop, stirring constantly until smooth. Just be patient and use low heat to avoid burning.

How do I store Jelly Nougat in humid climates?

Humidity can make nougat sticky. Store it in a cool, dry place in an airtight container, or keep it refrigerated to maintain firmness and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Jelly Nougat Recipe is such a wonderfully simple yet impressive candy to make, perfect for anyone craving a chewy, sweet treat with bursts of jelly goodness. Give it a try and enjoy the smiles it brings, whether for yourself or as a heartfelt homemade gift. You’ll quickly see why this recipe has become one of my favorites to share with friends and family.

Print