Ah, Christmas Gumdrop Nougat Candy—a festive, chewy treat that’s colorful, sweet, and perfect for holiday gifting! Here’s a clear recipe you can try at home:
Ingredients (Makes about 24 pieces)
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 cup light corn syrup
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¼ cup water
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2 large egg whites
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1 pinch salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup chopped gumdrops (any color)
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½ cup chopped nuts (optional, like almonds or pistachios)
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Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
1. Prepare the pan
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Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly dust with powdered sugar.
2. Make the syrup
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In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water.
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Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches 250°F (hard-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
3. Beat the egg whites
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While the sugar syrup is cooking, beat egg whites with a pinch of salt in a large bowl until stiff peaks form.
4. Combine syrup and egg whites
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Slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the beaten egg whites while constantly mixing with a hand mixer or stand mixer.
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Beat until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and slightly cooled (about 5–7 minutes).
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Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Add gumdrops and nuts
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Gently fold in chopped gumdrops and nuts (if using).
6. Shape the nougat
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Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and spread evenly.
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Dust the top with powdered sugar and press lightly with a spatula.
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Let it cool completely at room temperature (about 1–2 hours).
7. Cut and serve
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Once set, remove from the pan and cut into small squares or rectangles.
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Tips
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If your nougat is too sticky to cut, lightly dust your knife with powdered sugar or oil it slightly.
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You can mix in dried fruits like cherries or cranberries for extra holiday flair.
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Make it extra festive by using red and green gumdrops or colored sprinkles.
If you want, I can give a microwave version that’s much quicker—takes about 15 minutes and is easier for beginners.