Let’s be real: who doesn’t love a good candy that’s soft, chewy, and loaded with crunchy nuts and juicy cranberries? This Marshmallow Nougat Candy is your new best friend for those times you want to impress everyone with your “fancy” candy-making skills—while secretly doing the least.

No candy thermometer, no complicated steps—just melt, mix, and chill. Plus, it’s the perfect gift for anyone who thinks homemade candy is hard to make (hint: it’s not). Trust me, you’ll have these done before you even realize it, and the taste? Pure, irresistible bliss.

Marshmallow Nougat Candy

A chewy, soft nougat candy that combines the magic of marshmallows with crunchy nuts and dried fruit. It’s easy, delicious, and a perfect treat for holiday gifts or just when you’re in the mood for something sweet and fun!

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Course Dessert

Cuisine Italian

Servings 20 small pieces

Equipment

Saucepan
Parchment paper
Spoon
Refrigerator

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter
1 cup marshmallows
¼ cup milk powder
1.5 oz about 3 tablespoons dried cranberries
½ cup mixed nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews
Optional: matcha powder cocoa powder, or flavorings (like vanilla or espresso)

Instructions

Melt the Butter and Marshmallows: In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the marshmallows and stir frequently until they’re completely melted and smooth. Make sure to stir constantly to avoid burning the marshmallows.
Mix in Milk Powder: Once the marshmallows are melted, stir in the milk powder. Continue cooking and stirring for 1-2 minutes until everything is fully incorporated and smooth.
Add Nuts and Dried Fruit: Toss in your favorite mixed nuts and dried cranberries (or any other dried fruit you prefer). Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
Shape the Nougat: Transfer the mixture onto a piece of parchment paper. Fold the parchment to form a rectangle and press gently but firmly to your desired thickness. The mixture should be spread evenly with no air pockets.
Chill and Cut: Refrigerate the nougat for at least 1 hour, or until it is firm to the touch. If it’s still too soft after an hour, let it chill longer until it sets properly.
Enjoy: Once the nougat has set, remove it from the parchment paper and cut it into small pieces. Your homemade marshmallow nougat candy is ready to enjoy! Perfect for holiday gifts or just a treat to indulge in.

Marshmallow Nougat Candy: Tips & Tricks from Someone Who’s Definitely Made This a Few Times… Okay, Maybe 100

🍫 Don’t Overthink It
Honestly, this is not rocket science. If you mess up, it’s just marshmallows and butter—if they don’t work, are you even alive? You’ll still have something sweet, so relax.

🥜 Nuts About Nuts
Swap the mixed nuts for whatever your heart desires. Almonds, cashews, peanuts—heck, even a combo of pretzels if you want to get wild. I’m not judging, but don’t go throwing in something like gummy bears. That’s a whole different candy.

🍇 Cranberries? Berries? Whatever.
Not into cranberries? Fine, toss in dried cherries, raisins, or even chopped up dried mango. Just make sure it’s chewy—otherwise, what’s the point?

💚 Flavor Party!
Matcha powder, cocoa powder, or even a little espresso powder can take this candy to the next level. A sprinkle of cinnamon? Go ahead, make it festive. But if you’re trying to make this a “superfood” thing, we’re not there yet, buddy.

🥶 Chill Time? Just Trust It
Look, I know the fridge feels like a boring waiting game, but it’s essential. Your nougat needs to chill to really set. Don’t cut corners. Trust me, if you rush it, you’ll regret it when you end up with a gooey mess instead of bite-sized heaven.

🍬 Add-Ins Galore!
Feeling extra? Throw in some mini chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or crushed-up candy canes if it’s the holiday season. Who’s going to stop you? It’s your kitchen—do whatever makes you happy!