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Homemade Chocolate Nougat Bars

Updated on 5 min read

Soft, airy, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate nougat coated in creamy milk chocolate.

Servings: 8 bars
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Dietary Notes: Contains dairy; nut-free if using nut-free chocolate

Ingredients (Checklist style, with measurements)

  • 1 cup milk chocolate chips (for nougat base)
  • 1 cup milk chocolate chips (for coating)
  • 1 cup marshmallow fluff
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions (Concise, Numbered)

  1. Melt 1 cup chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals until smooth.
  2. Stir in marshmallow fluff, powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and salt until a thick nougat forms.
  3. Spread the mixture into a parchment-lined loaf pan. Smooth the top.
  4. Chill for 1–2 hours or until firm enough to slice.
  5. Cut the block into 8 bars.
  6. Melt the remaining 1 cup chocolate chips until smooth.
  7. Dip each bar in melted chocolate and place on parchment paper.
  8. Chill 15–20 minutes until coating is set.

Notes

  • Use good-quality chocolate for the smoothest finish.
  • If the nougat is sticky, oil your hands lightly before handling.
  • Bars naturally stay soft and fluffy; keep chilled if your kitchen is warm.

II. Hero Image

(Insert photo here – a visual of the bars coated in smooth chocolate with a light, airy interior.)

III. Brief Introduction

These homemade chocolate nougat bars recreate the soft, cloudlike center of your favorite candy bars, but fresher and even creamier. I originally made them as a quick dessert on a night when I wanted something chocolatey without baking, and they turned out so good that I now make them in big batches for the freezer. If you love melt-in-your-mouth textures, this is your new favorite treat.

IV. Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Making the Nougat

  1. Melt the chocolate
    Heat the chocolate chips gently until just melted.
    Tip: If the chocolate thickens or seizes, add 1 teaspoon of cream and stir until smooth.
  2. Mix in the marshmallow fluff
    Fold the fluff into the warm chocolate. It will look slightly grainy at first, then smooth out as you continue mixing.
    Tip: Warm the fluff for 5 seconds in the microwave to make it easier to stir.
  3. Add powdered sugar, cream, vanilla, and salt
    Stir until everything forms a cohesive nougat dough. It should be thick and airy.
  4. Shape and chill
    Transfer to a lined loaf pan and chill until sliceable. It should feel firm but springy to the touch.

Coating the Bars

  1. Slice the bars
    Unmold and slice into even rectangular bars using a sharp knife.
    Tip: Lightly dust the knife with powdered sugar for clean cuts.
  2. Dip in melted chocolate
    Coat each bar in smooth melted chocolate for that signature candy-bar finish.
    Tip: Place the bars on a cooling rack over a tray to let excess chocolate drip.
  3. Chill to set
    Refrigerate briefly until the coating hardens.

V. Ingredient Details and Substitutions

Why These Ingredients Work

  • Milk chocolate chips: Provide the classic candy-bar flavor and smooth texture.
  • Marshmallow fluff: The key to creating the airy, nougat-like interior.
  • Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and firms the texture slightly.
  • Heavy cream: Makes the nougat smoother and easier to shape.
  • Vanilla: Adds depth to the flavor.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness.

Substitutions

  • Use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer bar.
  • Replace heavy cream with evaporated milk if needed.
  • For a firmer bar, add an extra tablespoon of powdered sugar.
  • For a softer bar, add 1–2 teaspoons more cream.

Equipment Alternatives

  • If you don’t have a loaf pan, shape the nougat on a baking sheet and press into a rectangle.
  • Use a double boiler or microwave to melt chocolate; both work perfectly.

VI. Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

Flavor Variations

  • Add 1/4 teaspoon espresso powder to intensify chocolate flavor.
  • Mix in 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips for texture.
  • Add 1 teaspoon cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate nougat.

Dietary Variations

  • For gluten-free: ensure chocolate and marshmallow fluff are certified gluten-free.
  • For reduced sugar: use sugar-free chocolate chips.

Serving Tips

  • Serve chilled for the cleanest bite or at room temp for an extra-soft center.
  • Enjoy alongside coffee or hot chocolate for an indulgent pairing.

VII. Storage and Make-Ahead Information

Storage

  • Refrigerate bars in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
  • Store with parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

  • Freeze individually wrapped bars in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw in the refrigerator for best texture.

Reheating

These bars do not require reheating, but if the chocolate coating frosts in the fridge, let them sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

  • The nougat layer can be prepared 24 hours in advance and coated later.
  • Melt chocolate fresh for dipping to ensure a smooth finish.

VIII. Nutrition (Estimated per bar)

Calories: 245
Carbs: 27 g
Protein: 2 g
Fat: 14 g
Allergens: Contains dairy

IX. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these without marshmallow fluff?
A: No, fluff is essential for the airy nougat texture, but you can make homemade fluff.

Q: Why is my nougat too soft to slice?
A: It needs more chilling time or has extra moisture. Add more powdered sugar next time.

Q: Can I use white chocolate instead?
A: Yes, but reduce heavy cream to 1 tablespoon to prevent over-softening.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes. Use a 9×9 inch pan instead of a loaf pan.

X. Optional Personal Story

This recipe is a nostalgic nod to classic candy bars, but with a homemade twist that tastes fresher and creamier. I experimented with ratios of fluff and melted chocolate until I found the perfect airy, mousse-like consistency that still holds its shape. Every time I make a batch, it reminds me of making candy with family during the holidays, cutting oversized squares and dipping them one by one.

XI. Reader Interaction

If you try these homemade chocolate nougat bars, share your results in the comments. Let me know how yours turned out or what variation you used.

XII. Call-to-Action

Make these bars the next time you’re craving a quick, indulgent chocolate treat. Share the recipe with friends, save it for later, and let me know what flavor twist you try.

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