Old-Fashioned Jelly Nougat Candy is a delightful treat that brings warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. This candy is not only delicious, but it evokes sweet memories of childhood and family. With its fluffy marshmallow base, creamy white chocolate coating, and the chewy, fruity bursts from gummies or Dots, this dessert is a perfect blend of textures and flavors. It’s an easy and fun treat to make, making it an ideal recipe for both novice cooks and seasoned bakers. Join me on this step-by-step journey to create this charming candy that your loved ones will certainly appreciate.
Ingredients
- 2 (10-ounce) packages mini marshmallows: These fluffy marshmallows provide a sweet, gooey base that melts beautifully into a candy mixture.
- 24-ounce package almond bark (or two bags of white chocolate chips): The almond bark offers a rich, creamy texture, enveloping every piece in a luscious layer of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons butter: This will enhance the flavors in the candy while providing a silky smooth texture.
- 2-3 cups gummies or Dots (cut in half): Choose your favorite fruity treats; their chewy consistency and sweetness will add a delightful surprise in every bite.
Step-by-Step Directions
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Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray and lay a piece of parchment paper inside, letting it overlap on the sides for easy removal of the candy. Then, spray the paper again with non-stick spray and set it aside.
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Cut the Dots or gummies in half and set them aside for later. This will ensure that when added to the candy mixture, they will easily blend without overwhelming the texture.
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In a large microwave-safe bowl, place all the ingredients except for the gummies. Ensure your almond bark is cut into small pieces, which helps it to melt evenly. (Trust me, I learned the hard way.)
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Microwave the mixture in one-minute increments, stirring often. You should see the marshmallows puffing up and the almond bark starting to melt. Expect this to take at least three minutes.
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Once melted, stir well until everything is combined into a thick, gooey mixture. Be cautious not to over-stir if you’re using gummies; they can start melting and this can lead to a colorful mess!
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Gently fold the cut gummies into the mixture. Again, if using gummies, stir with care. You might want to set aside a few gummies to press onto the top later.
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Pour the mixture into the prepared dish. Butter your hands and gently press the candy mixture into place. If you’d like, press more gummies on top for an aesthetically pleasing finish.
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Let the candy sit out overnight at room temperature to firm up.
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Once set, cut the nougat into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy these sweet bites!
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Store any leftovers in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Tips & Tricks
- For extra flavor, consider adding vanilla extract to the marshmallow mixture before melting.
- If you are using white chocolate chips, look for high-quality brands to ensure your nougat is creamy and smooth.
- Experiment with different flavors of gummies for varied tastes!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Old-Fashioned Jelly Nougat Candy is a fantastic treat any time of the year. Serve these delightful squares at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or simply as a sweet snack for movie nights. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of cocoa or a cold glass of milk, making them even more enjoyable.
Nutritional Information
Each piece of this candy contains approximately 120 calories. A serving also provides a delightful mix of carbohydrates and a touch of protein, primarily from the marshmallows and almond bark. It’s always important to enjoy sweets in moderation!
Storing Tips & Variations
To keep your Old-Fashioned Jelly Nougat Candy fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to two weeks. You can also freeze the candy. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and it will last for up to three months. For variations, consider mixing in nuts for a crunchy texture or using different types of chocolate for a unique flavor profile.
Conclusion
Creating Old-Fashioned Jelly Nougat Candy is a joyful experience that not only fills your kitchen with delightful aromas but also offers a tasty treat that everyone will love. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, invite friends or family to join in, and make some sweet memories while crafting this nostalgic candy. Don’t forget to share your experience and your unique twists on the recipe!
FAQs
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Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini ones?
Yes, you can use regular marshmallows. Just cut them up into smaller pieces to ensure they melt evenly. -
What if I don’t have almond bark?
White chocolate chips can be used as a substitute. Just ensure they’re of good quality for the best flavor. -
How do you prevent the nougat from sticking?
Make sure to use plenty of non-stick spray on both the baking dish and the parchment paper to prevent sticking. -
Can I add different kinds of candy?
Absolutely! You can mix in any small candies or nuts that you enjoy to customize the flavor and texture. -
What is the best way to cut the nougat?
Use a sharp knife and lightly butter the blade to prevent sticking while cutting into squares or rectangles.
With this guide, you’ll find it easy and satisfying to make this nostalgic dessert! Happy cooking!
Old-Fashioned Jelly Nougat Candy
Ingredients
Method
- Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray and line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Spray the paper again with non-stick spray.
- Cut the Dots or gummies in half and set aside.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine all ingredients except the gummies, ensuring the almond bark is cut into small pieces.
- Microwave the mixture in one-minute increments, stirring often until marshmallows puff up and almond bark melts, which should take at least three minutes.
- Once melted, stir well to combine into a thick, gooey mixture, being careful not to over-stir the gummies.
- Gently fold in the cut gummies, saving some for topping if desired.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, butter your hands, and gently press into place. Top with reserved gummies if desired.
- Let the candy sit at room temperature overnight to firm up.
- Once set, cut the nougat into squares or rectangles and serve.
- Store leftovers in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.
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