Jelly Nougat Candy Recipe

Fluffy Jelly Nougat Candy Recipe: A Sweet Homemade Treat

Sweet memories dance through kitchens when crafting delightful jelly nougat candy that connects generations of treat lovers.

Soft, chewy textures promise pure delight in every bite.

Childhood nostalgia sparks as colorful cubes glisten with sugary brilliance.

Homemade confections always taste more magical than store-bought versions.

Simple ingredients blend into extraordinary results that surprise and charm.

Whisk yourself into a world of sugary wonder where creativity meets classic flavors.

You can create something spectacular that will make everyone smile.

Instructions to Make Jelly Nougat Candy

Step 1: Prepare Sugar Syrup

Grab a saucepan and combine:
  • Sugar
  • Corn syrup
  • Water
  • Salt

Heat the mixture over medium flame, stirring occasionally until it reaches a golden bubbling point of 280F, which candy makers call the soft-crack stage.

The syrup will look glossy and start to form thin threads when dripped from a spoon.

Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 2: Whip Egg Whites

Take a clean mixing bowl and beat egg whites using an electric mixer.

Whip vigorously until the whites transform into tall, stiff peaks that hold their shape when the beater is lifted.

The texture should look bright white and fluffy like clouds.

Step 3: Merge Syrup and Whites

Slowly stream the hot sugar syrup into the whipped egg whites.

Continue beating constantly to create a smooth, glossy mixture.

Pour in a steady, thin stream to prevent scrambling the egg whites.

Step 4: Add Flavor Boosters

Gently fold in:
  • Vanilla extract
  • Chopped nuts
  • Dried fruit

Mix thoroughly but carefully to maintain the airy texture of the nougat.

Step 5: Set and Cool

Pour the nougat mixture into a greased pan.

Spread evenly using a spatula.

Allow the candy to cool completely at room temperature.

This might take around 2-3 hours.

Step 6: Cut and Finish

Once fully cooled, slice the nougat into neat squares.

Dust generously with powdered sugar for a professional bakery look.

Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Pro Tips for Jelly Nougat Candy

  • Whip egg whites to stiff peaks for a light, airy texture that helps create the perfect nougat consistency.
  • Use a candy thermometer to precisely hit 280F, ensuring the sugar syrup reaches the ideal soft-crack stage for the right candy texture.
  • Grease the pan generously with butter or cooking spray to prevent the nougat from sticking and make cutting easier.
  • Experiment with different nuts like almonds, pistachios, or pecans to add unique flavors and crunch to your nougat.
  • Store the candy in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper to maintain freshness and prevent sticking.

Variations to Customize Jelly Nougat Candy

  • Chocolate Nutty Blast: Swap nuts with roasted cocoa nibs and mix melted dark chocolate into the nougat for an intense, rich flavor profile.
  • Tropical Paradise: Replace dried fruit with exotic mango chunks, coconut flakes, and add a splash of rum extract for a vacation-inspired treat.
  • Berry Bliss: Fold in freeze-dried raspberry pieces and mix white chocolate chips to create a fruity, creamy nougat variation.
  • Spiced Caramel Crunch: Incorporate caramel bits, ground cinnamon, and toasted pecans for a warm, spiced nougat experience with extra texture.

Pairing Ideas for Jelly Nougat Candy

  • Pair with Rich Espresso: Complement the sweet, nutty nougat with a bold, dark espresso that cuts through the candy's richness and enhances its complex flavors.
  • Serve with Aged Port Wine: Match the dense, chewy texture of the nougat with a smooth, fortified port wine that brings out the candy's subtle fruit and nut undertones.
  • Enjoy with Roasted Almond Biscotti: Elevate the nougat experience by serving alongside crunchy almond biscotti, creating a delightful textural contrast and nutty harmony.
  • Create a Dessert Platter: Arrange the nougat squares with a selection of dark chocolate pieces, dried apricots, and toasted almonds for a sophisticated and indulgent tasting experience.

Storage Tips for Jelly Nougat Candy

  • Store jelly nougat candy in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper. Keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks, maintaining its soft texture and preventing stickiness.
  • Place nougat in a sealed container away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep at cool room temperature for 3-5 days, ensuring it stays dry and firm.
  • Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months, preserving flavor and texture. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
  • Dust additional powdered sugar between layers and when serving to prevent pieces from clumping together and maintaining their individual shape.

FAQs About Jelly Nougat Candy

  • What are the key ingredients for jelly nougat candy?

Sugar, corn syrup, egg whites, vanilla extract, nuts, and dried fruit are the essential ingredients that create the classic nougat texture and flavor.

  • How difficult is this recipe for home cooks?

This recipe requires some skill in working with hot sugar syrup and understanding soft-crack stage, so it’s moderate difficulty and best for intermediate bakers with candy-making experience.

  • Why do I need to beat egg whites until stiff peaks form?

Stiff egg whites provide the light, airy structure that gives nougat its signature fluffy and soft texture, helping to incorporate air and create volume in the candy.

Why Jelly Nougat Candy Is a Delightful Treat

  • Craft with Ease: This jelly nougat candy requires basic kitchen skills, making it perfect for home cooks of all experience levels.
  • Customize Your Treat: Personalize the recipe by mixing in your favorite nuts and dried fruits, creating a unique sweet that reflects your taste preferences.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, and family celebrations, this homemade candy impresses guests with its delightful texture and rich flavor.
  • No-Fuss Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe allows you to create a professional-looking confection without complex techniques.

Ingredients for Jelly Nougat Candy

Sugar Base:
  • Sugar: The primary sweetener that creates the candy's foundational flavor.
  • Corn Syrup: Provides smooth texture and prevents sugar crystallization.
  • Water: Helps dissolve sugar and create the syrup.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor balance.
Protein Stabilizer:
  • Egg Whites: Creates a light, airy structure for the nougat and helps bind ingredients together.
Flavor Enhancers and Texture Additions:
  • Vanilla Extract, Chopped Nuts, Dried Fruit: Contribute depth of flavor and interesting texture to the candy.
  • Powdered Sugar: Used for dusting and adding a delicate sweet finish.
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Jelly Nougat Candy Recipe

Jelly Nougat Candy Recipe


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4.7 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Sweet memories of childhood melt into this homemade jelly nougat candy, blending nostalgic flavors with delightful textures. Crafted with simple ingredients and love, you’ll savor each delectable bite of this classic confection that brings joy to any gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (480 milliliters) sugar
  • 2 egg whites
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) chopped nuts
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) chopped dried fruit

Liquid Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) water
  • 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) vanilla extract

Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 milliliters) salt
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare a heat-resistant mixing bowl and place it near the stovetop for efficient candy making.
  2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt in a heavy-bottomed saucepan, stirring gently to integrate ingredients before heating.
  3. Heat the mixture over medium flame, monitoring temperature carefully with a candy thermometer until it reaches precisely 280°F, which indicates the soft-crack stage.
  4. While sugar syrup heats, vigorously whip egg whites in a separate clean bowl until they form distinct, glossy peaks that hold their shape.
  5. Gradually stream the scorching sugar syrup into whipped egg whites, maintaining continuous mixer motion to prevent crystallization and ensure smooth incorporation.
  6. Introduce vanilla extract, creating a fragrant base, then fold in chopped nuts and dried fruit, distributing ingredients evenly throughout the nougat mixture.
  7. Transfer the glossy confection into a pre-greased pan, using a spatula to spread evenly and eliminate air pockets.
  8. Allow the nougat to cool completely at room temperature for approximately 2-3 hours until it sets and firms.
  9. Once fully cooled, slice into uniform square pieces using a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.
  10. Dust the nougat squares with a delicate layer of powdered sugar, creating an elegant finish.

Notes

  • Select a reliable candy thermometer to accurately measure the sugar syrup temperature for consistent results.
  • Toast nuts before adding to enhance their natural flavor and provide a deeper, richer taste profile.
  • Use parchment paper instead of greasing the pan for easier removal and cleaner cutting of nougat squares.
  • Customize the recipe by swapping dried fruits or nuts to create unique flavor combinations that suit personal preferences.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 111 kcal
  • Sugar: 17 g
  • Sodium: 5 mg
  • Fat: 2 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1.8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg
Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Creating single-serving recipes tailored for individuals, small households, or meal preppers
  • Culinary arts with a focus on clean plating and natural styling for food photography
  • Working with fermented ingredients and dairy-based cooking techniques
  • Designing seasonal menus that use fresh, locally sourced produce

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Bend, OR

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Gained hands-on experience in professional kitchens, learning advanced recipe development, seasonal ingredient sourcing, and simple, beautiful food presentation.

ServSafe Food Handler Certification – Portland, OR

  • Program: Food Safety Certification
    Focus: Certified in core food safety and hygiene principles for both home and professional kitchens, with emphasis on ingredient handling, kitchen cleanliness, and safe preparation methods.

Mike’s kitchen journey began with a single goal: to make everyday meals feel like something worth celebrating.
After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Cascade Culinary Institute, he spent years working with local farmers and small kitchens across Oregon, learning the beauty of seasonal, small-batch cooking.
Mike’s approach is simple, cook with what’s fresh, keep it approachable, and always leave room for a little creativity. When he’s not testing yogurt marinades or designing single-serving meals, you’ll find him hiking trails or hunting down the best berries at local markets.

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