Charleston Chews
Recreate the nostalgic charm of classic Charleston Chews at home with this irresistible recipe for chewy vanilla nougat bars coated in rich, velvety chocolate. Perfectly soft and satisfyingly sweet, these homemade treats are crafted with whipped egg whites for an airy texture, a hint of vanilla for warmth, and melted chocolate chips for that decadent finish. With just a handful of pantry staples and a little patience, you can bring this iconic candy to life in your own kitchen. Whether you enjoy them fresh and soft or chilled for a firmer bite, these Charleston Chews are perfect for gifting, sharing, or indulging all on your own. Try this recipe for a DIY candy adventure that’s sure to delight!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 cup Light corn syrup
- 0.25 cup Water
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt
- 2 large Egg whites
- 1.5 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 2 cups Semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons Coconut oil or shortening
Instructions
Line a 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, water, and salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring, and use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature.
While the sugar mixture heats, place the egg whites in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat on medium speed until soft peaks form.
When the sugar mixture reaches 260°F (hard ball stage), remove it from the heat. With the stand mixer running on medium speed, carefully and slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the beaten egg whites in a thin, steady stream.
Increase the mixer speed to high and continue whisking until the mixture thickens, becomes glossy, and cools slightly, about 10 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow the nougat to set at room temperature for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Once set, remove the nougat from the baking dish and use a sharp knife to cut it into rectangular bars (about 3 inches long). Place the bars on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (or shortening) together in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until smooth.
Using a fork or chocolate-dipping tool, dip each nougat bar into the melted chocolate, ensuring it's fully coated. Place the coated bars back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill the bars in the refrigerator until the chocolate layer sets, about 15 minutes.
Store the Charleston Chews in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a firmer texture. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
140 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 4.9 g | 6% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.4 g | 17% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 26 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 25.6 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.9 g | 3% | |
| Total Sugars | 23.7 g | ||
| Protein | 1.3 g | 3% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1 mg | 0% | |
| Iron | 0.4 mg | 2% | |
| Potassium | 5 mg | 0% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
