4-Ingredient Easy Chewy Nougat Bars

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4-Ingredient Easy Chewy Nougat Bars – A Simplified Sweet Treat

If you’re craving the delicious, chewy texture of nougat without the hassle of candy thermometers or long, complicated cooking steps, these 4-Ingredient Easy Chewy Nougat Bars are just what you need. This simplified, no-bake method uses marshmallows and sweetened condensed milk to create a chewy, creamy nougat base that mimics the traditional treat, minus the hard work. The best part? These bars are quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying!

The Magic of 4-Ingredient Nougat Bars

Nougat is a classic candy that has always been a favorite in bars like Snickers, with its perfect balance of chewy sweetness and texture. Traditionally, making nougat requires cooking sugar and using a candy thermometer to reach the right temperature. But with this easy recipe, we skip the complicated steps and achieve a chewy, delicious nougat bar using just 4 simple ingredients.

This recipe combines marshmallows for their soft, chewy texture, sweetened condensed milk for creaminess, Rice Krispies cereal for a light crunch, and white chocolate chips for richness. And if you’re looking to add a bit more complexity, there are plenty of optional add-ins like peanuts, cranberries, or even a chocolate dip.

Easy Chewy Nougat Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 (10 oz) bag of large marshmallows
  • 1 (14 oz) can of sweetened condensed milk
  • 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 1 (10-12 oz) bag of high-quality white chocolate chips

Optional Add-ins & Coatings:

  • 1 cup roasted, salted peanuts (perfect for a Snickers-like treat)
  • ½ cup dried cranberries or dried cherries
  • ½ cup toasted coconut
  • Melted dark or milk chocolate for dipping

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

  • Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on two sides for easy removal of the bars later.
  • Lightly grease the parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Base

  • In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine the entire bag of marshmallows and the sweetened condensed milk.
  • Heat the mixture in the microwave on high for 1 minute. Stir well.
  • If the marshmallows aren’t completely melted, continue to heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time until the mixture is smooth and uniform.

Step 3: Add the White Chocolate

  • Once the marshmallows and milk are melted, stir in the white chocolate chips. The heat from the marshmallow mixture will melt the chocolate and create a smooth, creamy base.
  • Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is well combined.

Step 4: Add the Optional Add-ins

  • If you’re using any add-ins like roasted peanuts, dried cranberries, or toasted coconut, add them into the mixture now and stir gently to combine.

Step 5: Incorporate the Rice Krispies

  • Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture. Be careful not to over-stir, as this can crush the cereal and affect the texture.

Step 6: Press and Chill

  • Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan.
  • Use a sheet of parchment paper or lightly greased hands to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. This helps the bars hold their shape.
  • Refrigerate for 2-3 hours or until the mixture is completely firm.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

  • Once the mixture is set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the nougat block from the pan.
  • Place it on a cutting board and cut into bars or squares using a sharp knife.

Optional Step: Add a Chocolate Coating

  • For a special touch, dip the bottoms of the bars in melted dark or milk chocolate and let them set on a parchment-lined tray.

Pro-Tips for Perfect Nougat Bars

  • Grease your utensils: Since the mixture is quite sticky, greasing your spatula and hands with a little butter or cooking spray will help make the pressing process easier.
  • Press firmly: To ensure your bars hold together well, press the mixture firmly into the pan without over-stirring the cereal.
  • Use high-quality white chocolate: The flavor of the bars is largely determined by the white chocolate. Using a good brand like Ghirardelli or Guittard will yield a much better result.
  • Don’t overheat: Be careful not to overheat the marshmallow mixture, as it can make the nougat too hard or cause the white chocolate to seize.
  • Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay firm and chewy for up to one week. If left at room temperature, they may soften.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Marshmallows + Condensed Milk: These two ingredients form the base of the nougat, creating a chewy, sweet texture that is stable without the need for cooking sugar syrup.
  • White Chocolate Chips: These melt smoothly and add a rich, creamy flavor, while also helping the bars maintain their shape.
  • Rice Krispies: They provide the perfect balance of texture, giving the bars a slight crunch without overpowering the flavor.

Enjoy Your Homemade Nougat Bars

These easy chewy nougat bars are perfect for a quick treat, a party platter, or a homemade gift. They’re simple to make, require no cooking, and are customizable to suit your taste. Whether you prefer to keep them classic with just white chocolate and Rice Krispies, or add peanuts and a chocolate coating for extra decadence, these bars are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

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