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Old-Fashioned Gumdrop Nougat Candy

This Old-Fashioned Gumdrop Nougat Candy is a delightful homemade treat, perfect for holidays or any time you crave a sweet, chewy confection. The colorful gumdrops add a festive touch to the classic nougat base.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup light corn syrup
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 2 egg whites
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup mixed gumdrops, coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Continue cooking, without stirring, until the mixture reaches the hard-ball stage (250°F – 265°F) on a candy thermometer.
  3. While the sugar mixture is cooking, beat the egg whites with the salt until stiff peaks form.
  4. Slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the beaten egg whites in a thin stream, beating constantly. Be careful, as the syrup is very hot.
  5. Continue beating until the mixture thickens and holds its shape, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Stir in the vanilla extract, chopped gumdrops, and nuts (if using).
  7. Pour the mixture into a greased and powdered-sugar-dusted 8×8 inch pan.
  8. Let cool completely.
  9. Dust with powdered sugar and cut into squares.

Notes

For a festive twist, use gumdrops of different colors and flavors. You can also add dried fruits or other candies to the nougat.