Homemade Gumdrops

These sweet, chewy, and colorful treats are a delightful candy to make at home! Perfect for gifting, decorating cakes, or enjoying as a fun snack.

📋 Ingredients

• 4 cups sugar (plus extra for coating)
• 4 tablespoons gelatin powder
• 1 1/2 cups water (for cooking)
• 1 cup cold water (for dissolving gelatin)
• 1 teaspoon lemon or vanilla extract (or your favorite flavoring)
• Food coloring (optional, for vibrant colors)

👩‍🍳 Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin Mixture

• In a small bowl, combine the cold water and gelatin powder. Stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved and forms a thick mixture. Set aside to bloom.

Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup

• In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the water and sugar.
• Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
• Attach a candy thermometer and continue cooking the syrup until it reaches 230°F (softball stage), about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Gelatin with Syrup

• Carefully pour the bloomed gelatin mixture into the hot sugar syrup. Stir continuously until the gelatin dissolves completely, and the mixture is smooth.
• Remove from heat and add lemon extract, vanilla extract, or other flavorings.

Step 4: Add Colors (Optional)

• If making multi-colored gumdrops, divide the mixture into separate bowls.
• Add a few drops of food coloring to each bowl and stir until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Mold the Gumdrops

• Pour the mixture into lightly greased silicone molds, or pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish for later cutting into squares.
• Allow the gumdrops to set at room temperature for 6–8 hours or until firm.

Step 6: Unmold and Coat

• Once set, gently remove the gumdrops from the molds. If using a baking dish, cut the gumdrops into cubes or desired shapes using a knife or cookie cutter.
• Roll each gumdrop in sugar to coat them evenly.

✨ Tips for Perfect Gumdrops

• Candy Thermometer is Key: Ensuring the sugar reaches the correct temperature is crucial for the right texture.
• Lightly Grease Molds: This makes it easier to remove the gumdrops once set.
• Flavor Customization: Experiment with other extracts like peppermint, orange, or almond to create different flavors.
• Sugar-Free Option: Substitute regular sugar with a low-calorie sweetener like erythritol for a sugar-free version.

🌈 Variations

• Sparkly Gumdrops: Mix edible glitter with the sugar coating for a fun, festive twist.
• Fruit Juice Gumdrops: Replace water with fruit juice for a natural flavor boost.

🍴 Serving Suggestions

• Pack gumdrops in small jars or treat bags for homemade gifts.
• Use them as edible decorations for cakes, cupcakes, or holiday desserts.

⏲️ Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Set Time: 6–8 hours
• Total Time: ~8 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: Makes ~50 gumdrops (depending on size)

Your colorful Homemade Gumdrops are ready to enjoy! These little candies are sure to brighten any occasion. 🎉🍬