When it comes to quick, easy, and irresistible desserts, nothing beats these Four Ingredient Nougat Bars. Soft, chewy, and bursting with colorful gumdrops, these bars strike the perfect balance of nostalgic sweetness and modern convenience. Best of all, they require no baking, no complicated steps, and just four simple ingredients. Whether you’re preparing treats for the holidays, a birthday party, or a cozy afternoon with the kids, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Think of it as a playful twist on classic nougat candy—only faster, easier, and just as satisfying. The creamy marshmallow nougat, paired with the pop of fruity gumdrops and finished with a smooth white chocolate coating, makes every bite feel like pure joy.
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Ingredients (and Why They Work)
1. White Chocolate Chips (2 bags, about 24 oz total)
Acts as the creamy base of the nougat. It melts down smoothly, providing structure while still keeping the bars soft.
2. Mini Marshmallows (2 ½ cups)
The heart of the nougat texture. When melted, they create that signature chewy, fluffy consistency everyone loves in nougat.
3. Gumdrops (2 cups, chopped)
The fun, colorful element. These fruity candies add pops of flavor and bursts of color, making the bars look as good as they taste.
4. Butter (2 tablespoons)
Ensures the nougat melts smoothly and adds a touch of richness to balance the sweetness.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal later. Lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.
2. Melt the Base
In a large saucepan over low heat, add the butter and white chocolate chips. Stir continuously until melted and smooth.
Pro Tip: Keep the heat low to prevent the chocolate from seizing.
3. Incorporate the Marshmallows
Add the mini marshmallows to the melted chocolate mixture. Stir gently until the marshmallows just begin to melt but still retain some shape. This step keeps the nougat light and chewy.
4. Add the Gumdrops
Quickly fold in the chopped gumdrops. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture for colorful bites in every square.
5. Press and Chill
Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared pan. Press down evenly with a spatula.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
6. Slice and Serve
Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into small squares or rectangles with a sharp knife.
Pro Tip: Lightly coat the knife with nonstick spray for cleaner cuts.
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Why This Recipe Is Loved
Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor – just four pantry staples!
Kid-friendly – fun to make and even more fun to eat.
Perfect for holidays – festive colors and sweet chewy texture make them ideal for Christmas platters, Easter baskets, or birthday spreads.
No bake, no fuss – the refrigerator does all the work.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Nougat Bars
Chop gumdrops small for better distribution and easier slicing.
Use high-quality white chocolate for the smoothest melt and best flavor.
Don’t overheat the marshmallows—partially melted is the secret to that light, nougat-like chew.
Store properly – keep bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
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Serving Suggestions
Holiday platters: Add these bars to a tray of cookies, fudge, and truffles for a show-stopping dessert spread.
Kid’s parties: Wrap individual squares in wax paper for a fun, colorful treat bag filler.
Coffee break companion: Pair with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa for the ultimate afternoon indulgence.
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Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert that looks festive and tastes amazing, these Four Ingredient Nougat Bars are exactly what you need. They combine the creamy, chewy magic of marshmallow nougat with the playful sweetness of gumdrops—all wrapped in a silky layer of white chocolate.
With just a handful of ingredients and zero baking required, this recipe proves that making something special doesn’t have to be complicate
d. Whether for the holidays or a casual family treat, these nougat bars will quickly earn their place as a favorite in your kitchen.
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