Of course! This is a classic, no-fuss recipe for incredibly easy and delicious chewy nougat bars. They taste very similar to the inside of a popular candy bar but are made with just four ingredients.
This recipe is perfect for when you need a quick sweet treat.
Easy 4-Ingredient Chewy Nougat Bars
These bars are light, chewy, and slightly crumbly—exactly like a classic nougat.
Yield: 9-16 bars, depending on how you cut them
Prep time: 10 minutes
Setting time: 1-2 hours
Ingredients:
· 3 cups miniature marshmallows
· 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter
· 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter*
· 2 cups crispy rice cereal
*You can substitute the peanut butter with any nut or seed butter you like (almond butter, SunButter). For a nut-free version, use more marshmallow or a tiny bit of extra butter, though the texture will be slightly different.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on two sides. This will make it easy to lift the bars out later. Lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or cooking spray.
- Melt the Base: In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine the marshmallows and butter. Microwave on high for 1 minute. Remove and stir. If not completely melted, return to the microwave in 15-second bursts, stirring each time, until the mixture is smooth.
Stovetop Method: You can also do this in a large saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until melted. - Combine: To the hot marshmallow mixture, immediately add the peanut butter and stir until it’s fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Cereal: Add the crispy rice cereal to the marshmallow mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until all the cereal is evenly coated.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking pan. Use the back of a lightly greased spatula or your hands (lightly greased with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking) to press the mixture down firmly and evenly into the pan.
- Cool and Set: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for at least 1-2 hours, until firm. For faster setting, you can place the pan in the refrigerator for about 30-45 minutes.
- Cut and Serve: Once completely set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab of nougat out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into bars with a sharp knife.
Tips for Perfect Bars:
· Press Firmly: The key to bars that hold their shape is pressing the mixture into the pan very firmly.
· For Extra Chewiness: Using a full 3 cups of marshmallows is key. Don’t skimp!
· Variations: Feel free to mix in a handful of chocolate chips, sprinkles, or even some chopped nuts after you’ve combined the cereal.
· Storage: Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can become a bit harder if refrigerated.
Enjoy your homemade chewy nougat bars! They are dangerously easy to make.