Jelly Nougat Candy Recipe

Sweet & Chewy Jelly Nougat Candy Recipe for Homemade Treats

Sweet memories of childhood come flooding back with this delightful jelly nougat candy that sparkles with nostalgia and pure delight.

Soft, chewy textures mingle with vibrant fruity colors in every delectable bite.

Crafting these treats requires minimal ingredients and surprisingly simple techniques.

Confectioners of all skill levels can master this delightful recipe with ease.

Each piece promises a burst of sweetness that dances across your taste buds.

My grandmother first shared her secret technique, which transforms ordinary ingredients into extraordinary confections.

Prepare to be amazed by how quickly you can create these irresistible homemade candies that will become an instant favorite.

Jelly Nougat Candy with a Festive Finish

  • This jelly nougat candy offers a delightful homemade treat that anyone can master.
  • Perfect for beginners, the recipe involves simple steps like melting, mixing, and chilling without complex techniques.
  • Easily personalize the candy by adding different nuts, experimenting with fruit jelly flavors, or adjusting sweetness levels to suit individual preferences.
  • Transforms an ordinary afternoon into a fun cooking adventure, producing impressive homemade candies that spark joy and create memorable family moments.

Ingredients for a Batch of Jelly Nougat Candy

Base Ingredients:
  • Granulated Sugar, Corn Syrup, Water: Sweet foundation that creates the candy's syrup base, providing structure and sweetness.
  • Gelatin Powder: Natural thickening agent that helps set the jelly layer, giving smooth texture.
Flavoring Ingredients:
  • Butter, Vanilla Extract: Rich flavor enhancers that add depth and smoothness to the nougat, creating a classic sweet taste.
  • Fruit Jelly: Provides fruity flavor and color to the candy, adding a vibrant layer.
Optional Add-Ins:
  • Nuts: Crunchy element that adds texture and nutty flavor to the nougat, optional but recommended for extra complexity.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Jelly Nougat at Home

Step 1: Craft Sweet Sugar Syrup

  • Grab granulated sugar
  • Corn syrup
  • Water
  • Butter
  • Vanilla extract
  • Optional: Chopped nuts

Heat sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan over medium temperature. Stir until sugar completely dissolves.

When mixture starts simmering, add butter and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly.

Let syrup boil for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Test consistency by dropping a small amount into cold water- it should form a soft ball.

If using nuts, fold them into the mixture gently.

Pour the warm nougat into a parchment-lined baking dish. Allow to cool and solidify for 1-2 hours.

Step 2: Create Vibrant Jelly Layer

  • Fruit jelly
  • Water
  • Gelatin powder

Combine jelly, water, and gelatin in a small saucepan. Heat on low, stirring constantly until gelatin dissolves completely and mixture becomes smooth.

Once nougat has cooled, carefully pour jelly mixture over the top. Spread evenly to cover entire surface.

Refrigerate for 2-3 hours until jelly sets firmly.

Step 3: Slice and Indulge

Remove candy from refrigerator. Cut into delightful bite-sized squares or rectangular bars.

Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to one week.

Enjoy your homemade sweet treat!

Tips to Get the Perfect Texture in Jelly Nougat

  • Customize Nut Selection: Experiment with different nuts like almonds, pistachios, or pecans to add unique flavor and crunch to your nougat base, creating a personalized candy experience.
  • Prevent Sticking Trick: Lightly grease your cutting knife with cooking spray or butter to ensure clean, smooth cuts when slicing the jelly nougat candy without pulling or tearing.
  • Temperature Control Matters: Use a candy thermometer for precise sugar syrup cooking, aiming for the soft ball stage (235-240°F) to achieve the perfect nougat consistency and texture.
  • Flavor Boost Technique: Enhance the jelly layer by using fresh fruit juice or adding a splash of liqueur to intensify the overall taste profile of your homemade candy.
  • Storage Wisdom: Keep the jelly nougat candy in a cool, dry place, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain the delicate texture of your sweet creation.

Store and Slice Jelly Nougat Candy with Ease

  • Store Jelly Nougat Candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for maximum freshness, keeping it cool and away from direct sunlight.
  • Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months to extend shelf life.
  • Remove frozen candy from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying, allowing it to soften gradually.
  • Place parchment paper between layers when storing to prevent pieces from clumping together and maintain their shape.

Candy Pairings That Go Well with Jelly Nougat

  • Enjoy a classic hot cocoa that complements the nougat's rich, sweet profile and balances the jelly's fruity notes.
  • Brew a delicate chamomile or light green tea to enhance the candy's subtle sweetness and provide a refreshing counterpoint.
  • Serve a smooth espresso or cappuccino alongside the jelly nougat, allowing the coffee's robust flavor to contrast with the candy's soft, chewy texture.
  • Select a light moscato or sweet riesling that mirrors the candy's sweetness while adding a sophisticated touch to your homemade treat.

Sweet Ideas for Changing Up Jelly Nougat Candy

Nutty Crunch Variation: Replace standard nuts with a mix of roasted almonds, pecans, and macadamia nuts for extra texture and rich flavor complexity.

Vegan Friendly Version: Substitute corn syrup with agave nectar, use plant-based butter alternative, and replace gelatin with agar-agar powder for a completely vegan candy experience.

Fruit Fusion Edition: Swap traditional fruit jelly with raspberry, mango, or passion fruit puree to create vibrant, tropical-inspired flavor profiles that elevate the classic recipe.

Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, carefully selecting corn syrup and gelatin brands that guarantee no cross-contamination during production.

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Jelly Nougat Candy Recipe

Jelly Nougat Candy Recipe


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4.9 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet memories come alive with homemade jelly nougat candy, blending chewy textures and fruity whispers from traditional confectionery. Crafted with care, this delightful treat promises pure bliss that connects generations through delectable moments you’ll treasure.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (450 g / 16 ounces) white chocolate chips
  • 2 cups (450 g / 16 ounces) mini marshmallows
  • 2 cups (300 g / 10.5 ounces) gummy candies (like gumdrops or gummy bears), chopped into small pieces

Supporting Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup (60 g / 2 ounces) unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Craft a smooth sugar syrup by merging granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan, gently heating and stirring until sugar completely dissolves.
  2. Introduce butter and vanilla extract into the simmering syrup, stirring thoroughly to integrate all ingredients seamlessly.
  3. Allow the mixture to boil for 5-7 minutes, watching for a thickening texture. Test the consistency by dropping a small amount into cold water, aiming for a soft ball formation.
  4. Incorporate chopped nuts into the nougat mixture if desired, ensuring even distribution throughout the syrup.
  5. Transfer the molten nougat into a parchment-lined baking dish, spreading evenly and permitting it to cool and solidify for approximately 1-2 hours at room temperature.
  6. Prepare the jelly layer by combining fruit jelly, water, and gelatin powder in a separate saucepan, heating gently while continuously stirring until the gelatin dissolves completely.
  7. Carefully pour the translucent jelly mixture over the set nougat base, ensuring a uniform coating across the entire surface.
  8. Refrigerate the layered confection for 2-3 hours, allowing the jelly to firm and create a smooth, glossy top.
  9. Remove from refrigeration and slice into elegant bite-sized cubes or rectangular segments using a sharp knife.
  10. Store the finished jelly nougat candy in an airtight container, preserving its delicate texture for up to one week.

Notes

  • Adjust sugar levels carefully to prevent overly sweet or runny nougat, using a candy thermometer for precise temperature control.
  • Toast nuts before adding to enhance their nutty flavor and provide a delightful crunch to the candy’s texture.
  • Select high-quality fruit jellies or experiment with different flavors like raspberry, strawberry, or tropical blends for unique taste variations.
  • Use parchment paper with overhanging edges for easy removal and clean cutting of the nougat candy.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 184
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 34 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
Daves Miller

Daves Miller

Contributing Chef & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • American Southern cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Instruction in culinary fundamentals and advanced techniques.
  • Development of recipes that highlight seasonal and local produce.​
  • Mastery of artisanal bread and pastry techniques, from laminated doughs to decorative sugar artistry.

Education

Sullivan University, Louisville, Kentucky

  • Degree: Associate of Science Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Specialized in cooking techniques and culinary sciences, hands‑on externships, professional kitchen lab training, and career preparation for restaurants, entrepreneurship, and global culinary opportunities.

White Mountains Community College, Berlin, New Hampshire

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Arts degree
  • Focus: Specialized in comprehensive baking and pastry arts, including bread making, artisan breads, cake decorating and design, chocolates, confections, and decorative centerpieces; product development and baking theory; and career preparation for baker and pastry chef roles in many places.

Daves is the friendly face guiding you through flavorful, fuss-free recipes at Picture Perfect Meals. 

He studied culinary arts at Sullivan University and embraced Baking and Pastry Arts at White Mountains Community College. Daves specializes in comforting meals with vibrant flavors, highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients.

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