These old-school jelly nougats used to be a holiday favorite, but since Brach’s discontinued them, people everywhere have been trying to recreate that perfect texture and flavor. The recipe below is the closest, most reliable homemade version — and it turns out beautifully every time.
⭐ Ingredients
For the Nougat Base
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3 cups mini marshmallows
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2 cups white chocolate chips (or chopped white melting chocolate)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
For the Jelly Candy
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1½ cups fruit-flavored gumdrops or spice drops (remove the black ones if you prefer)
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Optional: Lightly coat the gumdrops in 1 teaspoon cornstarch so they don’t stick together when mixing.
🍭 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8 or 9×9 baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhangs so you can lift the nougat out later.
Lightly spray with nonstick spray.
2️⃣ Cut the Gumdrops
Slice each gumdrop into 2–3 small pieces.
This helps them distribute evenly throughout the nougat.
Set aside in a bowl.
3️⃣ Melt the Nougat Mixture
In a large, heavy saucepan over LOW heat, add:
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mini marshmallows
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white chocolate chips
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butter
Stir constantly until completely smooth.
(Do NOT increase the heat — white chocolate burns easily.)
Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract and pinch of salt.
4️⃣ Fold in the Gumdrops
Remove the pot from heat.
Let the mixture cool 1–2 minutes, just so the gumdrops don’t melt.
Gently fold in the gumdrop pieces until evenly distributed.
5️⃣ Transfer to the Pan
Pour the nougat mixture into your prepared baking dish.
Use a spatula to press it evenly into all corners.
Tip: Lightly butter your hands or spatula to avoid sticking.
6️⃣ Chill Until Firm
Refrigerate for 2–3 hours or until completely firm and sliceable.
7️⃣ Slice Into Candy Squares
Once set, lift the nougat block out of the pan and place on a cutting board.
Use a sharp knife to cut into small squares — mini or large, depending on how nostalgic you feel!
