Four Ingredient Nougat Bars
Indulge in the simplicity of Four Ingredient Nougat Bars, where creamy white chocolate and marshmallows blend seamlessly with vibrant gumdrops. With just a handful of steps, this recipe promises a delightful treat perfect for festive occasions or any sweet craving.
Prepare in advance and allow to set overnight for a nougat that’s irresistibly chewy and bursting with flavor. Ideal for sharing or enjoying solo, these bars are a guaranteed hit with their effortless charm and delicious taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Simple Ingredients: With only four main ingredients (miniature marshmallows, butter, white chocolate chips, and gumdrops), this recipe is super easy to make, even for beginners or those who don’t usually bake. It’s a great last-minute treat!
Sweet and Creamy: The combination of melted marshmallows, white chocolate, and butter creates a wonderfully creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s both satisfying and indulgent. It’s a treat that’s perfect for satisfying sweet cravings.
Festive Appeal: The addition of colorful red and green gumdrops gives these nougat bars a festive touch, making them perfect for the holidays or any celebration. They not only taste delicious but look great too!
No Baking Required: The fact that these bars don’t require baking makes them ideal for anyone who might not have access to an oven or simply wants to avoid the hassle of baking. It’s a fun, no-fuss recipe that still delivers a delicious result.
Customizable: You can easily modify this recipe to suit different tastes. For example, you could swap out the gumdrops for other candy or dried fruits, or even try dark chocolate chips for a twist.
Make-Ahead and Convenient: These bars are made the night before and set overnight, which makes them an excellent make-ahead option for busy holidays, gatherings, or when you just want to enjoy a sweet snack later without the work.
Kid-Friendly: This recipe is great for making with kids. They’ll love the easy process of stirring and adding the colorful gumdrops, and the final result is something they’ll be eager to devour.
Key Ingredients:
Miniature Marshmallows – Soft, pillowy marshmallows melt to create a creamy base for the nougat bars.
Butter – Adds richness and smoothness, helping to bind the ingredients together for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
White Chocolate Chips – Provides a sweet, creamy flavor that perfectly complements the marshmallows and gumdrops.
Gumdrops – Colorful, chewy candy pieces that give a fun, festive touch and a burst of sweetness in each bite.
Four Ingredient Nougat Bars
Ingredients
2 packages of miniature marshmallows
2 tbsp butter, melted
2 packages of white chocolate chips
1 ½ cups red and green gumdrops
Instructions:
Step 1:
Cut the gum drops in half
Layer a baking dish with parchment paper, be sure there is enough paper hanging over the sides
Bring a pot of water to a boil on the stove
Step 2:
Place a heat proof bowl or another pan over the first pot with the water
To the top dish add in the miniature marshmallows, the white chocolate chips and the butter
Melt the ingredients in the pan, over( or rather like a double boiler)
Stir until all is melted
Step 3:
Gently fold in the gumdrops
Pour into the baking dish with the parchment paper
Let rest overnight so the nougat sets
Lift out of the baking dish using the parchment paper, cut into bars
Enjoy!
Notes:
Preparation:
Gumdrop Cutting: Cutting the gumdrops in half ensures they distribute evenly throughout the nougat bars without overwhelming the texture.
Baking Dish Prep: Use parchment paper to line the baking dish, allowing easy removal of the bars after they set.
Melting the Ingredients:
Double Boiler Method: Melting the marshmallows, white chocolate chips, and butter using a double boiler prevents burning and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
Incorporating Gumdrops:
Gentle Folding: When folding in the gumdrops, do it gently to avoid breaking them apart excessively, maintaining their texture and appearance in the bars.
Setting Time:
Overnight Rest: Allowing the nougat to set overnight at room temperature or in the refrigerator helps achieve the perfect firmness for cutting into bars.
Cutting and Serving:
Using Parchment Paper: Lift the set nougat out of the baking dish using the overhanging parchment paper. This makes it easier to cut into neat bars.
Presentation: Cut the bars into desired sizes before serving. They can be stored in an airtight container for several days.
Variations:
Customization: Feel free to experiment with different types of gumdrops or add nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 12 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 295 | Total Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 59mg | Total Carbohydrates: 48g | Dietary Fiber: 0g | Sugars: 38g | Protein: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of miniature marshmallows?
Yes, you can use regular-sized marshmallows, but you may need to adjust the quantity accordingly.
Approximately 10 ounces of regular marshmallows can be substituted for one package of miniature marshmallows.
Can I use milk or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate chips?
Yes, you can use milk or dark chocolate chips if you prefer.
However, keep in mind that it will alter the flavor profile of the nougat bars.
White chocolate chips provide a sweeter and creamier taste compared to milk or dark chocolate.
Do I need to refrigerate the nougat bars after they have set overnight?
It’s not necessary to refrigerate the nougat bars after they have set overnight, but you can if you prefer them chilled.
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to several days.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the nougat bars?
Yes, you can customize the nougat bars by adding nuts, dried fruits, or other mix-ins to suit your taste preferences.
Just be sure to fold them in gently along with the gumdrops before pouring the mixture into the baking dish.
What can I use if I don’t have parchment paper for lining the baking dish?
If you don’t have parchment paper, you can grease the baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Alternatively, you can use aluminum foil, but be sure to grease it well to avoid any sticking issues.
Can I use homemade marshmallows instead of miniature marshmallows?
Yes, you can use homemade marshmallows if you prefer.
Just ensure they are cut into small pieces or diced to blend well with the other ingredients.
Can I substitute margarine for butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but keep in mind that it might alter the flavor slightly.
Butter tends to impart a richer taste compared to margarine.
Can I use other types of chocolate instead of white chocolate chips?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of chocolate such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips.
This will change the flavor profile of the nougat bars, providing a richer or more intense chocolate taste.
How long does it take for the nougat bars to set overnight?
Typically, the nougat bars need to set for at least 6-8 hours, but leaving them overnight ensures they are fully set and have the right consistency.
Can I add vanilla extract or other flavorings to enhance the taste?
Yes, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or other flavorings such as almond extract or orange zest to enhance the flavor of the nougat bars.
Can I use silicone molds instead of a baking dish for shaping the nougat bars?
Yes, silicone molds can be used as an alternative to a baking dish for shaping the nougat bars.
They make it easier to create uniform shapes and sizes.
Are there any gluten-free options for this recipe?
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that the ingredients you use, such as the marshmallows and gumdrops, are labeled as gluten-free.
Additionally, confirm that the white chocolate chips are gluten-free as well.
Can I store the nougat bars at room temperature?
Yes, you can store the nougat bars at room temperature in an airtight container for several days.
However, if you prefer them firmer or live in a warm climate, storing them in the refrigerator may be advisable.
How do I prevent the nougat mixture from sticking to the pan during melting?
To prevent sticking, ensure that the water in the double boiler doesn’t touch the bottom of the top bowl or pan.
Stir the mixture frequently and adjust the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer.
Can I make variations of this recipe by adding different mix-ins?
Yes, you can customize this recipe by adding various mix-ins such as chopped nuts, dried fruits, or shredded coconut.
Just fold them into the mixture along with the gumdrops before pouring it into the baking dish.