Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy is a colorful old-fashioned holiday treat made with just four simple ingredients. Soft, creamy nougat is combined with chewy, fruity gumdrops to create a festive candy that is perfect for Christmas cookie trays, holiday parties, homemade gifts, and dessert tables.
The bright gumdrops give every slice a beautiful jewel-like appearance, while the sweet vanilla nougat provides a smooth, chewy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 4 ingredients
- No complicated candy-making techniques
- Easy to prepare ahead
- Perfect for Christmas gifting
- Colorful and festive
- Great for cookie trays and holiday parties
Ingredients
- 16 ounces white almond bark or vanilla-flavored candy coating
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 2 cups assorted colorful gumdrops, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy
1. Prepare the Pan
Line an 8-by-8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some paper over the edges for easy removal.
2. Melt the Candy Coating
Place the almond bark or vanilla candy coating in a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave in 20- to 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until completely smooth and melted.
3. Add the Marshmallows
Stir the mini marshmallows into the warm melted coating until they are evenly coated.
4. Add Vanilla and Gumdrops
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gently fold in the chopped gumdrops, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
5. Press Into the Pan
Immediately transfer the mixture to the prepared pan.
Press it firmly into an even layer using a lightly greased spatula or parchment paper.
6. Chill
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the candy is completely firm.
For the easiest slicing, chilling overnight works well.
7. Slice and Serve
Lift the candy from the pan using the parchment paper.
Place it on a cutting board and cut into small squares or rectangles with a sharp knife.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 16–20 pieces
Ingredients
- 16 ounces white almond bark or vanilla-flavored candy coating
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 2 cups assorted colorful gumdrops, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line an 8-by-8-inch pan with parchment paper.
- Melt the candy coating in 20- to 30-second microwave intervals, stirring between each interval.
- Stir in the marshmallows.
- Add vanilla and gently fold in the chopped gumdrops.
- Press firmly into the prepared pan.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Remove from the pan and cut into squares.
Tips for the Best Gumdrop Nougat
Chop the gumdrops into small, even pieces so they are easy to bite and distribute throughout the candy.
Work fairly quickly after adding the gumdrops because the mixture begins to firm as it cools.
Do not overheat the candy coating. Short microwave intervals with frequent stirring help keep it smooth.
For cleaner slices, chill the candy thoroughly and use a sharp knife.
Storage
Store the candy in an airtight container with parchment or wax paper between layers.
Keep refrigerated for up to 1–2 weeks. Allow the pieces to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for a softer texture.
Perfect for Holiday Gifting
Cut the nougat into small squares and place the pieces in mini candy cups. Arrange them in a decorative holiday tin, gift box, or clear treat bag for a simple homemade Christmas gift.
Final Thoughts
Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy is a festive, nostalgic treat that turns four simple ingredients into colorful homemade holiday candy. The combination of creamy vanilla nougat, soft marshmallows, and chewy gumdrops makes every bite sweet, soft, and delicious.
It is an easy recipe to make ahead and a beautiful addition to any Christmas dessert table or homemade holiday gift basket.