Quick Description
These High-Protein Christmas Nougats are soft, chewy, festive holiday treats made with marshmallows, white chocolate, and colorful gumdrops — upgraded with protein so you can enjoy the nostalgia without the sugar crash. Perfect for gifting, dessert trays, or cozy winter snacking.
Servings & Timing
Serves: 24 small squares
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: ~2 hours
Ingredients List
Base
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 bags mini marshmallows (250g each)
- 2 bags white chocolate chips (225g each)
- 2 cups gumdrops, chopped
Protein Boost (Recommended)
- 3 scoops vanilla or unflavored whey protein powder
- ½ cup powdered milk or vanilla protein creamer (optional, for texture)
Instructions
1. Melt the Base
In a large saucepan over low heat, melt butter.
Add marshmallows and white chocolate chips.
Stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.
2. Add Protein
Remove from heat.
Stir in protein powder slowly until fully incorporated and smooth.
3. Fold in Gumdrops
Gently fold in chopped gumdrops.
4. Set
Pour mixture into a parchment-lined square pan.
Smooth the top evenly.
Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until firm.
5. Slice & Serve
Cut into small squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition (Per Piece – Approximate)
Calories: 120
Protein: 6–8g
Carbs: 14g
Fat: 5g
Sugar: 8g
(Depends on protein brand & candy used)
Benefits
- High-Protein Holiday Treat
- No Baking Required
- Perfect for Gift Boxes
- Kid & Family Friendly
- Portion-Control Friendly
Additional Notes
- Use sugar-free white chocolate to reduce carbs
- Chill well before cutting for clean edges
- Lightly oil knife before slicing
- Store layered with parchment paper
Dietary Info
High-Protein: ✅
Vegetarian: ✅
Gluten-Free: ✅
Low-Sugar Option: ✅ (with sugar-free swaps)
Brief Introduction
Christmas nougats are one of those nostalgic treats that instantly bring holiday memories back. This version keeps the soft chewy texture and festive sweetness — just with added protein so it fits better into everyday life.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Melt butter, marshmallows & chocolate
- Remove from heat
- Stir in protein powder
- Fold in gumdrops
- Spread into pan
- Chill
- Slice
- Enjoy
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
Marshmallows:
Use sugar-free marshmallows for lower sugar.
White Chocolate Chips:
Protein white chocolate chips also work great.
Protein Powder:
Whey blends smoothest; vanilla flavor recommended.
Gumdrops:
Swap with dried cranberries or chopped nuts for lower sugar.
Butter:
Can substitute coconut oil.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Variations
- Add chopped almonds or pistachios
- Add dried cranberries
- Add coconut flakes
- Peppermint version (add extract)
Serve With
- Hot cocoa
- Coffee
- Holiday dessert boards
- Gift boxes
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate: up to 10 days
Freeze: up to 2 months
Best stored airtight
FAQs
Can I skip protein powder?
Yes, but protein content will be lower.
Why is my mixture sticky?
Chill longer or add extra protein powder.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free chocolate and plant protein.
Can kids eat this?
Yes — same taste, better balance.
Optional Personal Story
These are the first treats I make every December. The smell alone feels like Christmas. Adding protein just means I can enjoy them more often without feeling guilty.
Call-to-Action
Save these High-Protein Christmas Nougats for your holiday baking list. Sweet, festive, no-bake, and smarter — the perfect seasonal treat
