Four Ingredient Nougat Bars: A Simple, Festive Treat Everyone Will Love

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about holiday treats that evoke memories of childhood and family gatherings. Four Ingredient Nougat Bars are exactly that—a chewy, colorful dessert that’s not only easy to make but also brings vibrant holiday cheer to your dessert table. These bars combine mini marshmallows, white chocolate chips, butter, and gumdrops for a candy-like delight that’s both old-school and timeless.

Whether you’re preparing for a cookie exchange, creating edible gifts, or need a no-bake dessert to round out your holiday spread, this recipe will not disappoint.

What Are Nougat Bars?

Nougat is a confection made with sugar, egg whites, nuts, or fruit, typically known for its chewy, fluffy consistency. In this simplified version, we skip the complicated boiling and tempering steps and use marshmallows and white chocolate to replicate that iconic texture.

You’ll often see nougat in European sweets like Torrone or French nougat, but this holiday-inspired spin uses red and green gumdrops to create a vibrant, playful look.

Curious about the history of nougat? This article from The Kitchn dives into its global variations and cultural roots.

Why You’ll Love These Four Ingredient Nougat Bars

These bars are more than just a treat—they’re a holiday tradition. Here’s why they’ve stood the test of time:

Festive and colorful with red and green gumdrops
‍ No baking required, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules
Kid-friendly and adult-approved—fun to make with little helpers
Perfect for gifting, storing, and serving at parties
❤️ Nostalgic flavor that evokes family traditions

Ingredients Needed

These bars rely on just four simple ingredients—no mixers, ovens, or special equipment necessary:

Main Ingredients:

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Workspace

Before anything else, line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on all sides. This will make lifting the set nougat out easier later.

2. Cut the Gumdrops

Slice the gumdrops in half. This allows for better distribution and makes them easier to bite through once the bars set.

3. Set Up a Double Boiler

Bring a small pot of water to a simmer. Place a heatproof bowl or another saucepan on top of the pot to act as a double boiler.

4. Melt the Base

To the top bowl, add the mini marshmallows, white chocolate chips, and melted butter. Stir continuously over medium heat until everything is fully melted and smooth.

5. Add the Gumdrops

Once the mixture is smooth, gently fold in the gumdrops with a spatula, being careful not to overmix and melt the candy pieces.

6. Transfer and Set

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula and gently press to flatten the top.

7. Let It Rest

Allow the nougat to set at room temperature overnight. If you’re short on time, refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours until firm.

8. Slice and Serve

Use the parchment paper to lift the block from the dish. Slice into bars or squares and serve immediately—or store for later!

Pro Tips for Perfect Nougat Bars

Use a silicone spatula to avoid sticking while mixing.
Don’t overheat the mixture—gentle, slow melting is key to a smooth texture.
Sprinkle with sugar before slicing if you want an added festive sparkle.
Use gloves when cutting gumdrops to avoid sticky fingers.

Holiday Variations to Try

While the classic red and green gumdrops are iconic, you can get creative with other mix-ins and festive spins:

1. Peppermint Swirl Nougat

Add crushed candy canes and a drop of peppermint extract for a minty twist.

2. Chocolate Chip Nougat

Mix in mini dark chocolate chips and colorful sprinkles for a more kid-friendly version.

3. Fruit & Nut Delight

Swap gumdrops for dried cranberries and chopped pistachios or almonds.

4. Tropical Twist

Use pineapple and orange gumdrops or fruity gummy candies for a bright, citrusy profile.

How to Store and Freeze

One of the best parts about these Four Ingredient Nougat Bars is how well they store and travel.

Storing:

Place in an airtight container with parchment between layers.
Keep at room temperature for up to 7 days.
Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks for extra firmness.

Freezing:

Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap.
Store in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Serving Ideas

Nougat bars are beautiful on their own but can also be served as part of a larger dessert board or tray.

Holiday cookie trays
Dessert charcuterie boards
Potlucks and bake sales
Gift tins for friends and family
Pair with hot cocoa or mulled cider

FAQs About Four Ingredient Nougat Bars

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free white chocolate chips and vegan marshmallows. Swap butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.

Can I use colored marshmallows?

You can, but it may alter the color and look of the nougat. Stick with white for a classic appearance.

What size gumdrops work best?

Smaller gumdrops or ones cut into halves or quarters give better distribution and chewability.

Can I make this with a microwave instead of a double boiler?

Yes—microwave the marshmallows, chips, and butter in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.

Why These Bars Have Become a Holiday Staple

There’s something about the simplicity and nostalgia of these nougat bars that makes them stand out on any holiday table. They’re easy to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and offer a chewy texture that’s different from cookies and cakes.

Plus, they make excellent giftable sweets. Just wrap them in wax paper or place them in decorative tins, and you’ve got a homemade treat that everyone will love.

How to Package Nougat Bars for Gifting

If you’re planning to share these bars this holiday season, here are some tips:

Wrap each bar in wax paper and secure with twine or ribbon
Place in a clear cellophane bag tied with a holiday tag
Use small tins or holiday boxes lined with parchment paper
Label with “Keep Cool” instructions for best texture

Looking for packaging ideas? Country Living’s cookie gift guide has plenty of creative solutions for DIY bakers.

Pairing Nougat Bars with Other Treats

Create a balanced treat platter by pairing nougat bars with:

Spiced gingerbread cookies
Peppermint bark
Chocolate fudge squares
Shortbread or sugar cookies
Mini cinnamon rolls or snowball cookies

This variety ensures a well-rounded selection for dessert tables or gifting purposes.

Conclusion: A Sweet, Simple Classic to Share

The magic of Four Ingredient Nougat Bars lies in their simplicity and charm. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a festive, delicious treat that brings joy to every bite. Whether you’re recreating a cherished family recipe or starting a new holiday tradition, these bars offer an easy, memorable way to celebrate.

So the next time you’re short on time but want something meaningful, reach for your marshmallows, white chocolate, butter, and gumdrops. A batch of nougat bars is sure to put smiles on everyone’s faces.

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