Chewy Christmas gumdrop nougat candy is a nostalgic holiday treat that’s as colorful as it is delicious. Made with creamy white chocolate, marshmallows, and festive red and green gumdrops, this easy no-bake candy is soft, chewy, and perfect for gifting. No candy thermometer needed—just melt, mix, press, and chill! Whether you’re adding it to your holiday cookie platter or wrapping it up for neighbors and friends, this retro-inspired sweet will bring a pop of joy (and color) to any celebration. Plus, kids love helping pick and mix the gumdrops!
Table of Contents
✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ❤️ Only 4 Ingredients – Simple pantry staples with big results
- 🎄 Festive & Fun – Red and green gumdrops make it pop on a Christmas cookie tray
- 👶 Kid-Friendly – Easy enough for little helpers to join in
- 🎁 Perfect for Gifting – Package in tins or bags for easy homemade presents
- 🔥 No Candy Thermometer Required – Foolproof and beginner-friendly
🧾 Ingredients
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (or salted, if preferred)
- 2 bags (500g total) mini marshmallows
- 2 bags (450g total) white chocolate chips (avoid cheap brands for smoother texture)
- 1½ cups red and green gumdrops, chopped
💡 Tip: Use high-quality white chocolate chips like Ghirardelli or Lindt for best results.
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Pan & Gumdrops
- Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
- Cut gumdrops into small pieces and set aside.
Step 2: Melt the Base
- Set up a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a saucepan with simmering water.
- Add butter, marshmallows, and white chocolate chips to the bowl.
- Stir continuously over low to medium heat until smooth and melted. Avoid boiling!
Step 3: Mix in the Gumdrops
- Remove bowl from heat and let it cool for about 2 minutes.
- Fold in chopped gumdrops and stir until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Set the Nougat
- Pour the sticky mixture into your lined baking dish.
- Press evenly using a piece of wax or parchment paper sprayed with cooking spray.
Step 5: Chill and Slice
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Cut into bite-sized squares using a greased knife for clean cuts.
📋 Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: ~2 hours 35 minutes
- Servings: ~64 bite-sized pieces (depending on cut size)
- Skill Level: Beginner
🍫 Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per piece)
- Calories: ~80
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: <1g
(Whole batch: ~4950 calories)
💡 Tips & Variations
- 🔥 Avoid Overheating: Melt slowly and stir constantly to prevent grainy texture.
- 🍭 Spice Drop Option: Can’t find gumdrops? Use spice drops or fruit slices instead.
- ✂️ Greased Knife: Spray your knife with nonstick spray for smooth, clean slices.
- 🎨 Change the Colors: Use pastel gumdrops for spring or all red for Valentine’s Day!
- 🧊 Freezer-Friendly: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
❓ FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini?
Yes—just cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they melt evenly.
What’s the best white chocolate to use?
Avoid lower-quality chips (like Chipits). Use Ghirardelli, Lindt, or baking-quality white chocolate chips for smooth melting.
Can I make this candy in advance?
Absolutely! It keeps well at room temperature for 1–2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Why is my nougat grainy or tough?
This usually happens if you overheat the mixture or use low-quality chocolate chips. Always melt gently and stir constantly.
Chewy Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- **Prep**: Line 8×8” pan with parchment. Chop gumdrops and set aside.
- **Melt**: In a double boiler, melt butter, marshmallows, and white chocolate over low heat. Stir until smooth.
- **Mix**: Remove from heat. Let cool for 2 minutes, then stir in gumdrops.
- **Press**: Transfer to prepared pan. Press evenly with greased parchment paper.
- **Chill & Slice**: Refrigerate 2+ hours. Cut into squares with a greased knife.
Notes
– Store in an airtight container at room temp up to 2 weeks.
– Freeze individually for up to 3 months.
🎉 Conclusion
This chewy Christmas gumdrop nougat candy is a retro holiday classic that’s back in style. With just a few ingredients, no candy thermometer, and endless festive flair, it’s the perfect no-fuss recipe for gift-giving, holiday trays, or cozy afternoons with kids. Bright, chewy, and oh-so-sweet—this is the holiday treat everyone didn’t know they were missing!