Nougat Bars
Chewy, nutty nougat bars with coconut and marshmallows, perfect for a sweet snack or treat to share at gatherings and parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter and marshmallows over hot water, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat.
- Fold in Cheerios, nuts, coconut, and salt.
- Turn the mixture into a buttered 9 x 9-inch square pan.
- With a piece of waxed paper protected hand, pat mixture evenly in the pan.
- Spread chocolate in a thin layer over the top.
- Chill until set, about 1 hour.
- Cut into 2 x 1-inch bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different flavor, consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or apricots to the mix. If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute the nuts with additional coconut or seeds. To ensure even melting, chop marshmallows into smaller pieces before heating. This recipe can also be adapted using rice cereal for a gluten-free option. Pair with the Creamy Eggless Mayonnaise for a light lunch.
Serving Suggestions
These nougat bars make a delightful snack on their own or can be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat. They also pair nicely with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate on top or sprinkling with sea salt before serving. They are perfect for potlucks or as a sweet addition to any dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover nougat bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you live in a warm climate, refrigerate them to prevent melting. For best results, avoid stacking layers directly on top of each other; use parchment paper in between to maintain their shape and texture. Reheating is not necessary as they are best enjoyed at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nougat Bars contains roughly 635 calories, with 5g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (29% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different cereals in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute Cheerios or Kix with your favorite cereals like Rice Krispies or even granola for added texture. Just ensure that the cereal you choose is similar in size and shape to maintain the bars' structure.
How do I make these nougat bars vegan?
To make vegan nougat bars, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. Use vegan marshmallows, which are made without gelatin, to keep the recipe entirely dairy-free and suitable for vegetarian recipes.
Can I add flavorings to the nougat bars?
Yes! You can enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract when melting the butter and marshmallows. This adds a lovely depth of flavor and complements the sweetness of the bars beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).