Easy Nougat Bars with Just 4 Ingredients

If you’re searching for a quick holiday dessert recipe, these 4-Ingredient Nougat Bars are a must-try. Originally inspired by classic Mediterranean nougat, this modern twist uses marshmallows, white chocolate, and chewy gumdrops for a colorful, kid-friendly treat. Unlike traditional nougat that requires cooking sugar to high temperatures, this recipe is no-bake and microwave-friendly, making it perfect for beginners. These chewy, sweet bars are great for Christmas, birthdays, or anytime you want a festive dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why These Nougat Bars Work

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role. Mini marshmallows melt into a soft, sticky base, while butter keeps everything smooth and prevents sticking. The addition of white chocolate chips makes the bars creamy and balances the sweetness. Finally, gumdrops bring fruity flavor and bright holiday colors that make these nougat bars look as good as they taste. This combination gives you a chewy, creamy texture with pops of fruity chewiness in every bite. It’s proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients to make an impressive dessert.

Reasons to Love This No-Bake Recipe

You’ll love how fast and versatile this nougat recipe is. With just four pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in less than 15 minutes, then let the fridge do the work. The bars store well, making them ideal for gifting, parties, or preparing ahead of time. You can also customize them with different candies think pastel gumdrops for Easter or red and pink for Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned baker, these nougat bars deliver big flavor with little effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 packages miniature marshmallows
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 packages white chocolate chips
• 1 ½ cups red and green gumdrops

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Melt Marshmallows and Butter

In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the marshmallows and melted butter. Microwave for 1–2 minutes until soft and puffy, then stir until smooth.

Step 2: Melt White Chocolate

In another bowl, microwave the white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until creamy and fully melted.

Step 3: Mix Together

Pour the melted chocolate into the marshmallow mixture. Stir until everything is combined into a thick nougat base.

Step 4: Fold in Gumdrops

Add the gumdrops and mix gently until evenly distributed throughout the nougat mixture.

Step 5: Set and Slice

Line a baking dish with parchment paper. Spread the nougat evenly into the pan and press down firmly. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours, then slice into bars or squares.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 24 bars

Nutrition Information (Per Bar)

• Calories: 190
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 1g
• Sugar: 28g

4-Ingredient Nougat Bars

Q1: How long do nougat bars last?

Nougat bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Q2: Can I make nougat bars without gumdrops?

Yes! You can substitute gumdrops with chopped dried fruit, mini marshmallows, or colorful candies like M&Ms. This allows you to customize the bars for different occasions.

Q3: Why are my nougat bars too sticky?

If the nougat is sticky, it may not have chilled long enough. Make sure to refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours. Lining your pan with parchment paper and lightly greasing your spatula also helps.

Q4: Can I make nougat bars gluten-free?

Yes. Most marshmallows and white chocolate are naturally gluten-free, but always check the packaging of gumdrops and chocolate chips to be sure.

Q5: What holidays are these bars best for?

These nougat bars are especially popular at Christmas, thanks to the red and green gumdrops, but they can be made year-round with different candy colors for Easter, Valentine’s Day, or birthdays.