Grandma’s Christmas Candy is a colorful, old-fashioned holiday treat that brings a little extra sweetness to the festive season. Also known as gumdrop nougat or jelly nougat, this easy no-bake candy combines creamy white chocolate, soft marshmallows, and chewy red and green gumdrops for a delicious dessert that looks as beautiful as it tastes.
With just four simple ingredients and a few minutes of preparation, you can make a batch of these festive candies without turning on the oven. They’re perfect for Christmas parties, holiday dessert platters, homemade gifts, or enjoying with a warm cup of coffee on a cozy winter evening.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Candy
- No baking required: Everything comes together in the microwave, making this recipe especially convenient during the busy holiday season.
- Only four ingredients: White chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, butter, and gumdrops are all you need.
- Festive and colorful: Red and green candies create a cheerful Christmas look that stands out on any dessert tray.
- Perfect for gifting: Cut the chilled candy into bite-sized squares and package them in decorative tins or holiday bags.
- Easy to customize: Swap the gumdrops for other chewy candies or experiment with different colors for special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons butter: Helps create a smooth, rich candy mixture and makes stirring easier.
- 1 (12-ounce) bag white chocolate chips: Provides the creamy, sweet base for the candy.
- 1 (10-ounce) bag mini marshmallows: Gives the nougat its soft, chewy texture.
- 1 cup red and green gumdrops or chewy candy, chopped: Adds fruity flavor, festive colors, and a delightful chewy bite.
How to Make Grandma’s Christmas Candy
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8-by-8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a little extra paper hanging over the sides. Lightly grease the parchment to help prevent sticking. Set the dish aside.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Marshmallows
Place the butter, white chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1 minute, then stir thoroughly with a greased spatula.
Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is melted and smooth. Avoid overheating the mixture, as white chocolate can scorch easily.
Step 3: Add the Gumdrops
Let the melted mixture cool for about 1 minute. Gently fold in the chopped red and green gumdrops until they are evenly distributed.
Allowing the mixture to cool slightly helps prevent the colorful candies from melting and discoloring the white chocolate base.
Step 4: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a greased spatula to spread it evenly and press it gently into the corners.
Step 5: Chill Until Firm
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the candy is completely firm and easy to cut.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Lift the chilled candy out of the dish using the parchment paper. Remove the paper and place the candy on a cutting board.
Use a sharp knife to cut it into small, bite-sized squares. Arrange the pieces on a holiday platter or package them for gifting.
Tips for the Best Christmas Candy
- Use a low microwave setting if available: Gentle heating helps prevent the white chocolate from becoming grainy or scorched.
- Stir frequently: Stirring between heating intervals helps everything melt evenly.
- Grease your spatula: The sticky marshmallow mixture is easier to handle when your utensil is lightly greased.
- Let the mixture cool before adding candy: This helps preserve the gumdrops’ bright colors.
- Chill thoroughly: Cutting the candy before it is completely firm can result in sticky, uneven pieces.
- Use a sharp knife: For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife between slices.
Variations to Try
Classic Red and Green Gumdrop Candy
Use red and green gumdrops for a traditional Christmas appearance. Choose chewy candies that hold their shape when folded into the mixture.
Cranberry and Pistachio Nougat
Replace the gumdrops with chopped dried cranberries and pistachios for a festive combination of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors.
Colorful Holiday Candy
Use different colors of chewy candy to create treats for birthdays, Easter, Valentine’s Day, or other celebrations.
Extra-White-Chocolate Candy
For a richer white chocolate flavor, choose good-quality white chocolate chips. Keep the same proportions and melt gently to maintain a smooth texture.
How to Serve Christmas Candy
Grandma’s Christmas Candy is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of ways to make it part of your holiday celebrations.
- Add it to a Christmas cookie platter alongside sugar cookies, fudge, and gingerbread.
- Serve it as a sweet bite after a holiday dinner.
- Arrange the pieces in decorative paper cups for a festive dessert table.
- Package the candy in small tins or gift bags for friends, family, teachers, and neighbors.
- Enjoy a piece with hot chocolate, coffee, or tea.
How to Store Christmas Candy
At room temperature: Store the candy in an airtight container in a cool place for up to one week, provided the room is not too warm.
In the refrigerator: Keep it in an airtight container for approximately 2 to 3 weeks. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In the freezer: Wrap the candy well and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
For the softest texture, allow refrigerated candy to sit at room temperature briefly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes. Cut regular marshmallows into smaller pieces so they melt more evenly. Keep a close eye on the mixture while microwaving.
Why did my gumdrops melt into the candy?
The melted chocolate and marshmallows may have been too hot when the gumdrops were added. Let the mixture cool for about a minute before gently folding in the candies.
Can I make Christmas candy ahead of time?
Absolutely. This candy is ideal for preparing ahead because it needs several hours to chill. Make it a day or two before your holiday gathering and store it in an airtight container.
Do I have to use red and green gumdrops?
No. You can use other chewy jelly candies or try dried cranberries and pistachios. For the most colorful appearance, choose candies that retain their shape when mixed into the warm base.
Why is my candy too soft to cut?
It may need more chilling time, or the mixture may not have been heated and combined properly. Refrigerate it until fully firm before slicing. A warm kitchen can also soften the candy, so keep it chilled until serving if necessary.
Can I make this recipe without a microwave?
Yes. Melt the butter, white chocolate, and marshmallows in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of gently simmering water. Stir continuously until smooth, making sure the bowl does not touch the water.
Grandma’s Christmas Candy Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: Approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes
Servings: 24 pieces
Category: Dessert
Method: No-bake
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 (12-ounce) bag white chocolate chips
- 1 (10-ounce) bag mini marshmallows
- 1 cup chopped red and green gumdrops or chewy candy
Instructions
- Line an 8-by-8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Combine the butter, white chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave for 1 minute, stir, then continue heating in 30-second intervals until melted and smooth.
- Allow the mixture to cool for about 1 minute.
- Fold in the chopped gumdrops.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Lift the candy from the dish, remove the parchment, and cut into bite-sized squares.
- Store in an airtight container until ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Grandma’s Christmas Candy is a simple, nostalgic treat that makes holiday entertaining a little easier. Its creamy white chocolate base, soft marshmallow texture, and colorful gumdrops create a festive candy that looks wonderful on dessert platters and makes a thoughtful homemade gift.
Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or trying this classic for the first time, this easy no-bake recipe is a lovely addition to your Christmas celebrations.