2 cups (about 300–320 g) gumdrops, cut into small pieces
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Use the sugared, chewy gumdrops (not spice drops, unless you want a spicy flavor!)
For the Pan (not counted in the 3)
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Parchment paper
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A little butter or nonstick spray for greasing
💡 You can adjust quantities slightly; the key is enough marshmallow + white chocolate to coat the gumdrops and hold everything together.

Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Gumdrops & Pan
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Line a 23×23 cm / 9×9 inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang so you can lift the bars out later.
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Lightly grease the parchment with butter or nonstick spray.
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Cut the gumdrops into small pieces (quarters or smaller) using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors.
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Tip: Lightly coat the knife or scissors with a bit of sugar or oil so the gumdrops don’t stick.
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Toss the chopped gumdrops with a tablespoon of powdered sugar or cornstarch if you like – this helps keep them from clumping together. Set aside.
2. Melt the “Nougat” Base
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In a large heatproof bowl, combine:
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White chocolate chips
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Mini marshmallows
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You can melt them in the microwave or using a double boiler:
Microwave method (easiest):
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Microwave on 50% power in 30-second bursts, stirring very well after each burst.
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Continue until the marshmallows are puffed and the white chocolate is mostly melted.
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Stir until completely smooth and combined.
Double boiler method:
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Place the bowl over a pot of gently simmering water (don’t let the bottom of the bowl touch the water).
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Stir constantly until everything melts together and becomes smooth.
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✅ The mixture should be thick, glossy, and completely melted – no visible marshmallows or chocolate chunks.
3. Fold in the Gumdrops
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Working quickly (before the mixture starts to set), add the chopped gumdrops to the warm nougat base.
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Use a sturdy spatula to fold everything together until the gumdrops are evenly distributed.
The mixture will be thick – that’s what you want.
4. Press into the Pan
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Scrape the gumdrop nougat mixture into the prepared pan.
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Use the spatula to spread it into an even layer.
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To smooth the top:
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Lightly grease a piece of parchment or your spatula with butter or spray,
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Press it gently over the surface until it’s level and flat.
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Make sure to press into the corners so all the bars are the same thickness.
5. Chill Until Firm
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Cover the pan lightly (or place in a container) and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or until the nougat is completely firm.
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For best cutting, you can chill it overnight.
6. Slice Into Bars
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Once firm, lift the slab out of the pan using the parchment overhang.
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Place it on a cutting board.
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Use a sharp knife to cut into small squares or rectangles.
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Wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts if it gets sticky.
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You’ll see pretty colorful gumdrop pieces running through the white nougat, just like candy-store treats.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
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Store bars in an airtight container with parchment between layers so they don’t stick.
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Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
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For gifting, place pieces in mini cupcake liners inside a tin or box.
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You can also freeze them for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.
Variations You Can Try
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Spice Drop Nougat Bars
Use spice drops instead of regular gumdrops if you love clove, cinnamon, and anise flavors – very Christmassy. -
Almond or Pistachio Crunch
Add ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, or cashews) to the nougat mixture along with the gumdrops. -
Marshmallow Rainbow
Use colored mini marshmallows plus gumdrops for an extra fun, rainbow effect. -
Chocolate Swirl
Melt a small amount of semi-sweet chocolate and drizzle over the top before chilling; swirl with a toothpick for a marble effect. -
Holiday Version
Choose gumdrops in just red, green, and white for a Christmas look, or pastel colors for Easter.
Serving Ideas
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Add them to your Christmas cookie tray as the bright, chewy candy option.
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Pack 4–6 squares in a clear bag with a ribbon for teacher or neighbor gifts.
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Serve with coffee, hot chocolate, or tea as a sweet after-dinner bite.
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Use small squares to decorate the top of a Christmas cake or ice cream sundae.