Four Ingredient Nougat Bars

Introduction

Growing up, there were always a few special treats that seemed to magically appear only during the holidays. One of my absolute favorites was Four Ingredient Nougat Bars. I vividly remember seeing them on the dessert table, but there was always a catch—they were reserved for adults only. As a child, I never quite understood why these colorful, chewy delights weren’t shared with everyone. It wasn’t until I started making them myself as an adult that I finally understood: they were just too irresistible to share!

These nougat bars are soft, chewy, and packed with bursts of fruity sweetness from gumdrops, perfectly balanced with creamy white chocolate and marshmallows. Best of all, they require only four simple ingredients and come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute holiday treats or homemade edible gifts.

Ingredients – Four Ingredient Nougat Bars

To make these festive nougat bars, you’ll need:

2 packages of miniature marshmallows
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 packages of white chocolate chips
1 ½ cups red and green gumdrops, halved

Tip: Look for holiday-themed gumdrops to make these bars extra festive. You can also mix in multi-colored gumdrops for a fun twist

Four Ingredient Nougat Bars

Directions – Four Ingredient Nougat Bars

Step 1: Prepare the gumdrops and pan

Begin by cutting the gumdrops in half to evenly distribute them throughout the nougat.
Line a baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring there’s enough overhang on the sides to easily lift out the nougat later.

Step 2: Melt the base

Bring a pot of water to a boil on the stove.
Place a heatproof bowl or a smaller pan over the pot to create a double boiler.
Add the miniature marshmallows, white chocolate chips, and melted butter to the top bowl.
Stir constantly until everything is smooth, creamy, and fully melted.

Step 3: Add the gumdrops

Once melted, gently fold in the halved gumdrops.
Be careful not to overmix, as you don’t want the gumdrops to melt into the nougat.

Step 4: Set and cut

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Let it rest overnight at room temperature so the nougat sets firmly.
Once set, lift it out using the parchment paper and cut it into bars or bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy!

Arrange the nougat pieces on a festive platter or package them in holiday tins or cellophane bags to give as gifts.

Tips & Variations

Flavor variations: Try swapping gumdrops for dried cranberries, chopped candied cherries, or even crushed peppermint candies for a different holiday vibe.
Chocolate twist: Use half white chocolate chips and half milk or dark chocolate chips for a layered look.
Storage trick: If your nougat gets too sticky while cutting, dust your knife with powdered sugar or cornstarch.
Gift-ready idea: Wrap individual pieces in wax paper twists for a nostalgic candy-shop feel.
Kid-friendly version: If making for kids, choose fruity gumdrops and avoid strong-flavored ones like licorice.

Storage

These nougat bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you live in a warmer climate, store them in the refrigerator to keep them from becoming too soft. For longer storage, wrap pieces tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Resting Time: Overnight
Total Time: About 12 hours
Yield: Approximately 24 bars, depending on how you cut them.

Tools Used

Sharp knife or pizza cutter (for clean cuts)
Mixing spoon or spatula
Double boiler or heatproof bowl over a saucepan
Parchment paper
9×13-inch baking dish

Four Ingredient Nougat Bars

FAQs – Four Ingredient Nougat Bars

1. Can I use different candies instead of gumdrops?

Absolutely! While gumdrops give these bars their signature chewy texture and fruity flavor, you can substitute them with dried fruits, chopped gummy bears, or even mini chocolate candies for a different twist.

2. How do I prevent the nougat from sticking to the knife?

To make cutting easier, lightly coat your knife or pizza cutter with nonstick spray or dust it with powdered sugar. This prevents the sticky nougat from clinging to the blade and gives you smooth, clean cuts.

Final Thoughts – Four Ingredient Nougat Bars

Four Ingredient Nougat Bars are a classic treat that embodies the magic of the holiday season. With their festive colors, soft and chewy texture, and bursts of fruity sweetness, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The best part? They’re incredibly simple to make, even for beginner bakers. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a holiday party, or as homemade gifts, this nostalgic dessert is sure to bring joy to anyone who tastes it.

Next time you need a quick and easy holiday recipe, remember this one—you might just find yourself guarding them like the adults did when you were a kid!

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Four Ingredient Nougat Bars

A nostalgic holiday treat made with just four simple ingredients, featuring soft marshmallow nougat, creamy white chocolate, and bursts of fruity gumdrops.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 10

Total Time 12

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 160

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 packages miniature marshmallows
2 tbsp butter melted
2 packages white chocolate chips
1 ½ cups red and green gumdrops halved

Equipment

Double boiler or heatproof bowl
Mixing spoon or spatula
- Parchment paper
9x13-inch baking dish
Sharp knife or pizza cutter

Method

Cut gumdrops in half and set aside.
Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Melt marshmallows, white chocolate chips, and butter over a double boiler, stirring constantly until smooth.
Gently fold in gumdrops.
Pour mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
Let rest overnight to set completely.
Lift from the pan, cut into bars, and serve.