When it comes to crafting a dessert that’s both delightful and visually stunning, nougat bars are a top contender. These bars, with their combination of chewy marshmallows, smooth white chocolate, and vibrant gumdrops, are a festive treat perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or simply want to indulge in a sweet snack, these nougat bars are a surefire way to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Introduction
There’s something magical about nougat bars that makes them an irresistible treat for both kids and adults alike. The blend of textures and flavors—soft marshmallows, creamy white chocolate, and the fruity burst of gumdrops—creates a dessert that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. These bars are especially popular around the holidays, where the red and green gumdrops add a festive touch, but their versatility means you can adapt them to suit any celebration throughout the year.
What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a treat that looks impressive and tastes even better. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or as a fun weekend project with the kids, nougat bars are a treat that will leave everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 24 ounces white chocolate chips (about 2 bags)
- 1 ¼ cups chopped gumdrops (red and green for a festive look, or any colors you prefer)
Instructions :
Step 1: Prepare the Marshmallow Base
Start by combining the mini marshmallows and melted butter in a large, microwave-safe bowl. Stir until the marshmallows are well-coated. Microwave on high for 1 to 2 minutes, stopping to stir every 30 seconds, until the marshmallows are fully melted and smooth. The marshmallow mixture should be glossy and slightly sticky.
Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate
In a separate microwave-safe bowl, add the white chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate as it can easily burn. Once melted, the white chocolate should be silky and pourable.
Step 3: Combine Marshmallow and Chocolate
Pour the melted white chocolate into the marshmallow mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the marshmallow and chocolate are well combined. The mixture will be thick and gooey, making it the perfect base for your nougat bars.
Step 4: Add the Gumdrops
Fold in the chopped gumdrops, gently stirring to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture. The gumdrops add a colorful, fruity touch that makes these bars stand out. For a festive look, use red and green gumdrops, but feel free to mix it up with different colors for other occasions.
Step 5: Prepare the Pan
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. This step is crucial as it will help you lift the nougat bars out of the pan without any sticking or breaking.
Step 6: Press and Chill the Mixture
Transfer the nougat mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased to prevent sticking) to press the mixture down firmly and evenly across the dish. Make sure it’s spread out evenly to ensure each bar has the perfect thickness. Once done, place the dish in the refrigerator for at least one hour, allowing the mixture to set and firm up.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Once the nougat bars have fully set, remove them from the refrigerator. Lift the parchment paper to easily take the bars out of the dish and place them on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut the nougat into bars or squares. The bars should be firm and easy to cut, with the gumdrops adding a fun splash of color in each piece. Serve these at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
Expert Tips
- Chop the gumdrops finely: This ensures that each bar has a balanced distribution of fruity flavors.
- Use quality white chocolate: The flavor and texture of the white chocolate are crucial to the success of this recipe, so opt for a good brand.
- Line the pan well: Parchment paper is key to easily removing the nougat bars from the pan without sticking.
- Customize the gumdrops: You can easily change the colors and flavors of the gumdrops to suit any event, making these bars adaptable to any season or occasion.
Nutritional Information (Per Bar)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 40mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 29g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 1g
(Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.)
Conclusion :
Nougat bars are a delightful combination of textures and flavors that make them a hit at any gathering. Their easy preparation and the ability to customize the colors and flavors make them a versatile dessert that you can enjoy all year round. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, need a sweet treat for a birthday, or just want to whip up something fun with the kids, nougat bars are the perfect choice. With their chewy, creamy, and fruity layers, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Source of the picture : Barbara O’Neill Lectures
