Name: Delight in Homemade Jelly Nougat Candy for Sweet Nostalgia
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 137 min
Ingredients: 2 cups white chocolate chips (Substitution: Use almond bark for a different flavor profile.); 2 cups mini marshmallows (Substitution: Marshmallow crème can create a smoother nougat.); 1/2 cup butter (Substitution: Coconut oil can impart a tropical flair.); 1 cup fruit jelly candies (Selection Note: Try gumdrops or Turkish delight for an exciting twist.); 1 cup powdered sugar (Enhances presentation when cutting beautiful squares of Jelly Nougat Candy.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet scent of melting chocolate wafted through the air, instantly transporting me back to my childhood. There’s something undeniably enchanting about Jelly Nougat Candy, a delightful confection that combines a soft, chewy nougat base with vibrant, jewel-like fruity jellies. This nostalgic treat is not only a wonderful way to bring a smile to faces young and old, but it’s also incredibly easy to make! Perfect for holiday gift boxes or simply as an indulgent snack after a long day, this recipe is a fantastic crowd-pleaser. Plus, it offers plenty of room for personalization—swap out jellies or experiment with flavors to suit your taste. Are you ready to sweeten your day with this colorful delight? Let’s get started!

Why is Jelly Nougat Candy So Irresistible?

Nostalgic Experience: Each bite captures the whimsical flavors of childhood, sparking fond memories.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, anyone can whip this up with ease.
Customizable Flavors: Feel free to adapt by swapping fruit jellies or incorporating your favorite flavors.
Perfect Gift Idea: Pack these colorful squares in gift boxes for a sweet surprise that friends and family will adore.
Fun for All Ages: Whether you’re a kid or simply a kid at heart, this candy is a joyful treat for everyone!
Discover more delightful spins on homemade sweets with our holiday candy ideas.

Jelly Nougat Candy Ingredients

• Get ready to create a cherished treat!

For the Nougat Base

White Chocolate Chips – These provide a creamy, sweet base for the nougat. Substitution: Use almond bark for a different flavor profile.
Mini Marshmallows – They contribute to a soft texture and delightful sweetness. Substitution: Marshmallow crème can create a smoother nougat.
Butter – Adds richness and depth to the nougat. Substitution: Coconut oil can impart a tropical flair.

For the Jellies

Fruit Jelly Candies – They introduce chewy resistance and fruity bursts of flavor. Selection Note: Try gumdrops or Turkish delight for an exciting twist.

For Dusting

Powdered Sugar – Lightly dust for an appealing finish. Enhances presentation when cutting beautiful squares of Jelly Nougat Candy.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Jelly Nougat Candy

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients: white chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, fruit jelly candies, and butter. Set a heatproof bowl or double boiler over simmering water on medium heat. Ensure everything is measured and ready, so you can work efficiently without interruptions as you create your Jelly Nougat Candy.

Step 2: Melt Base
In the heatproof bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and butter. Stir gently as they melt, keeping a close eye to prevent overheating, which can ruin the texture. It should take about 5-7 minutes for the mixture to become smooth and glossy. Remove the bowl from heat once melted, allowing the warm, creamy base to cool slightly.

Step 3: Add Marshmallows
Next, fold in the mini marshmallows into the melted chocolate and butter mix. Continue stirring gently until the marshmallows start to soften but are not completely melted, approximately 1-2 minutes. You’ll want to see some marshmallow pieces for that chewy texture in your Jelly Nougat Candy.

Step 4: Incorporate Jellies
Now it’s time to mix in the fruit jelly candies. Stir them evenly into the nougat mixture, ensuring that every bite of your Jelly Nougat Candy will be bursting with colorful flavor. The candies should easily incorporate within a minute, providing a cheerful and festive contrast to the soft nougat base.

Step 5: Set Mixture
Pour your nougat and jelly mixture into a lined baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Press down lightly to compact it for a nice shape. Ensure it’s evenly distributed so you have uniform squares once cut. Let it rest on the counter for a few minutes before chilling to help it set properly.

Step 6: Chill
Refrigerate the assembled Jelly Nougat Candy for at least 2 hours or until fully firm. This chilling time is crucial for developing the right texture, so be patient while the flavors meld and the nougat solidifies. Ensure it’s covered with plastic wrap or a lid to keep it fresh.

Step 7: Cut
Once set, remove the Jelly Nougat Candy from the fridge. Using a sharp knife dusted with powdered sugar, carefully cut it into squares. This will prevent sticking and yield clean edges for a beautiful presentation. The colorful jellies should be visible, making each piece a delightful surprise.

Tips for the Best Jelly Nougat Candy

Gentle Melting: Always melt chocolate over low heat to prevent scorching, which can ruin the creamy base of your Jelly Nougat Candy.
Marshmallow Texture: Don’t over-melt the mini marshmallows; they should be soft but still retain shape to give that lovely chewy texture.
Perfect Cooling: Chill the mixture long enough for it to set properly—rushing this step could lead to a sticky or crumbly result.
Clean Cuts: Dust your knife with powdered sugar before cutting to ensure smooth, clean edges on your Jelly Nougat Candy squares.
Flavor Experimentation: Feel free to swap out fruit jellies for seasonal favorites or even try different types of chocolate for a twist!

How to Store and Freeze Jelly Nougat Candy

Airtight Container: Store your Jelly Nougat Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain its soft and chewy texture.

Refrigeration: If you prefer it chilled, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for optimal enjoyment.

Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze the candy by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen Jelly Nougat Candy in the fridge overnight and serve at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

Jelly Nougat Candy Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize your Jelly Nougat Candy with these fun and delicious twists that will tailor it to your taste and occasion!

Flavorful Fusions:
Swap out your fruit jelly candies for seasonal or themed flavors—think pumpkin spice jellies for fall festivities!
Nutty Richness:
Incorporate chopped nuts like almonds or pecans into the nougat for added crunch. This little extra bite complements the softness beautifully.
Decadent Drizzle:
Drizzle melted dark chocolate or white chocolate over the top before chilling for an elegant presentation and an extra hint of decadence.
Vegan-Friendly:
Use dairy-free chocolate and replace butter with coconut oil and mini marshmallows with a vegan alternative for a delightful plant-based twist.
Fruity Variations:
Replace classic fruit jelly candies with dried fruits like cranberries or chopped apricots. This adds both chewiness and a hint of natural sweetness.
Spicy Kick:
Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the melted chocolate for a surprising and delicious heat that complements the candy’s sweetness.
Matcha Green Tea:
Mix in matcha powder for a unique flavor profile and vibrant green hue that’s both trendy and delicious, pleasing all the matcha lovers out there!
Aromatic Enhancements:
Infuse the melting butter with a drop of vanilla extract or almond extract for extra depth of flavor, making each bite a sweet aromatic delight.

No matter which variation you choose, you can transform your Jelly Nougat Candy into a stunning treat that fits any palate and occasion. If you’re looking for more dessert ideas, you might enjoy our holiday candy recipes or explore delightful selections on easy homemade desserts!

What to Serve with Jelly Nougat Candy?

Indulging in the playful sweetness of Jelly Nougat Candy opens the door to a delightful meal adventure.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: A rich cup of hot chocolate complements the sweetness perfectly, creating a comforting dessert duo.
Fresh Fruit Salad: The bright, crisp flavors of fresh fruits balance the chewy texture of the nougat, adding a refreshing element.
Savory Cheese Platter: Pair with assorted cheeses for a delightful contrast of sweet and savory that elevates your treat.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warmth and spices of chai provide a cozy beverage choice that enhances the jelly’s fruity essence.
Peanut Butter Cookies: Add a crunchy, nutty texture that makes for an exciting flavor combination with the soft nougat.
Flavorful Biscotti: These crunchy treats are perfect for dipping in your beverage of choice, enriching the overall experience with texture.
Mini Cupcakes: Colorful cupcakes bring festive cheer while adding a fun, sweet interaction with your Jelly Nougat Candy.
Nutty Trail Mix: A handful of trail mix introduces crunch and heartiness, making it an enjoyable snack when paired with the chewy candy.
Sparkling Lemonade: The fizzy, tart punch of lemonade offsets the sweetness, making for a bright, refreshing drink option.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Jelly Nougat Candy squares are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat with minimal effort during busy weeks! You can prepare the nougat mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps—melting the chocolate and incorporating the marshmallows and jellies. After chilling, simply slice the candy and store the squares in an airtight container for up to three days. To maintain the chewy texture of the nougat and the freshness of the jellies, refrigerate them, but allow your Jelly Nougat Candy to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delightful flavors without the last-minute rush!

Jelly Nougat Candy Recipe FAQs

What type of fruit jelly candies should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose bright and colorful fruit jelly candies that will add both flavor and visual appeal to your Jelly Nougat Candy. Gumdrops and Turkish delight are excellent options that provide a variety of flavors and textures, but feel free to select your favorites to make this recipe truly your own!

How should I store Jelly Nougat Candy?
I recommend storing your Jelly Nougat Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you prefer it chilled, you can refrigerate it for up to 3 weeks. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving so that you can fully appreciate its chewy texture!

Can I freeze Jelly Nougat Candy?
Yes! For longer-lasting treats, you can freeze your Jelly Nougat Candy. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and serve it at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

What if my nougat mixture is too sticky?
No worries! If your Jelly Nougat Candy mixture turns out too sticky, it’s likely due to over-melting the marshmallows. Try chilling the mixture for about 10-15 minutes to let it firm up slightly before pouring it into the baking dish. You can also dust your hands or spatula with powdered sugar while handling it to prevent stickiness.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This Jelly Nougat Candy is vegetarian, making it a delightful treat for those following a meat-free diet. However, if you’re catering to specific dietary needs, be mindful of any allergies, particularly with nuts, if you choose to add them in your variations. Always check the labels of your ingredients, particularly the jelly candies, to ensure they are suitable for all your guests.

Can I use other types of chocolate?
The more, the merrier! While white chocolate chips create a creamy base, feel free to experiment with dark chocolate or milk chocolate for a different flavor profile in your Jelly Nougat Candy. Just remember that the melting process may vary, so keep an eye on the temperature while melting to achieve that perfect creamy consistency!