Print

Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy

Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy
Print Recipe

Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy is a festive and delightful treat that combines the smooth, nutty richness of nougat with chewy, colorful gumdrops. This sweet candy offers a chewy texture and a playful burst of fruity flavors, perfect for holiday celebrations, gifting, or enjoying as a nostalgic seasonal favorite. Easy to make and customizable, it brings vibrant color and joyful flavor to your festive table.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup honey
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large egg whites (room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter, softened

Add-ins

  • 1 cup chopped gumdrops
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional; almonds or pistachios recommended)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Measure all ingredients accurately and line a baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Chop gumdrops and nuts if using, so they are ready to add once the nougat base is prepared.
  2. Cook the Sugar and Honey Mixture: In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar and honey. Heat gently, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely. Then bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat until it reaches the soft-ball stage (about 240°F or 115°C). This step ensures the nougat achieves its signature chewy texture.
  3. Whip Egg Whites: While the syrup cooks, beat the egg whites in a clean bowl until stiff peaks form, creating the light and airy texture characteristic of traditional nougat.
  4. Combine Syrup and Egg Whites: Slowly pour the hot sugar-honey syrup into the whipped egg whites while continuing to beat. This thickens the mixture and cools it to the perfect nougat consistency.
  5. Add Butter, Vanilla, Gumdrops, and Nuts: Beat in softened butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is glossy and smooth. Then gently fold in the chopped gumdrops and nuts to evenly distribute the festive bursts of color and crunchy texture.
  6. Set and Chill: Spread the nougat mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Let it cool and set at room temperature before cutting into squares or shapes to serve or gift.

Notes

  • Use a candy thermometer to ensure the sugar syrup reaches the correct temperature for perfect chewiness.
  • Egg whites should be at room temperature for optimum volume when whipped.
  • Work quickly when folding in gumdrops and nuts, as the nougat sets fast after adding the syrup.
  • Use silicone spatulas and parchment paper to prevent sticking and aid in easy mixing and removal.
  • Store nougat in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying or sticking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas candy, nougat, gumdrops, holiday treats, chewy candy, festive candy, homemade gifts, gluten free candy

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/christmas-gumdrop-nougat-candy/