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🍬 Homemade Gumdrops Recipe

homemade gumdrops arranged on white marble surface

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.9/5 (300 votes)
Author: Lina
Total Time: 25 minutes + 4-6 hours setting time

🎯 Why This Recipe Works

The gelatin creates the perfect chewy texture while fruit juice delivers authentic flavor that beats store-bought versions. The sugar coating prevents sticking and adds the classic gumdrop experience.

 

Perfect for: Gift-giving, holiday treats, or satisfying sweet cravings!

Ingredients

Scale

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For the Gumdrop Base:

  • 2 cups fruit juice (grape, orange, or apple)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin (Knox brand recommended)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: Natural food coloring

For Coating:

 

  • 3 cups granulated sugar

Instructions

👩‍🍳 

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

  • Combine fruit juice and lemon juice in a medium saucepan
  • Add 1/4 cup sugar and salt, stir until dissolved
  • Sprinkle gelatin evenly over mixture
  • Let sit for 5 minutes to bloom

Step 2: Heat and Dissolve

  • Place over medium heat, stirring constantly
  • Heat until gelatin completely dissolves (don’t boil!)
  • Add food coloring if desired
  • Stir until smooth and homogeneous

Step 3: Set the Gumdrops

  • Pour into greased 8×8-inch dish or silicone molds
  • Refrigerate for 4-6 hours (overnight is best)
  • Test firmness by lightly pressing with finger

Step 4: Cut and Coat

 

  • Remove from dish and cut into small squares
  • Use cookie cutters for fun shapes if desired
  • Roll each piece in granulated sugar until coated

Notes

  • Blooming is key: Don’t skip the 5-minute gelatin blooming step
  • Avoid boiling: Keep heat at medium to preserve texture
  • Storage: Keep in airtight container at room temperature
  • Shelf life: Properly stored gumdrops last several weeks

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Keywords: chewy candy, fruit gumdrops, gum drops candy, gumdrops candy, homemade candy, sugar coated candy gumdrops homemade candy fruit candy easy recipes