Gumdrops Recipe

Making homemade jelly beans is a fun kitchen project that’s perfect for a holiday gift or a delicious dessert. If you’ve ever wondered how to make these soft, sweet, sugary treats, you’re in for a treat! This homemade jelly beans recipe combines applesauce for the perfect texture and a totally customizable flavor. Plus, it’s a hit with everyone, especially kids (and let’s be honest, adults, too).

One of my favorite things about making gumdrops is how simple they are to pull together. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a whole batch of these jewel-like candies in under a day, and they’re perfect for packing up in little jars or bags to share with friends.

this RECIPE

A memory of making candy as a kid 🍬

I remember the first time I tried making homemade candy with my grandma. It was a sticky, sugary adventure, and we may have ended up with more sugar on the counter than in the candy itself. But there was something magical about turning a few pantry ingredients into these sweet, colorful treats. Making gumdrops always brings me back to that time—the smell of warm sugar and fruit, the satisfaction of pulling a tray of candy from the fridge, and the delight of cutting out those chewy squares (and sneaking a few before anyone else noticed). Now, I get to share that experience with my kids, and it feels like passing on a little family tradition.

A quick look at gumdrop history

This candy has a surprisingly rich history! It dates back to the 1800s and was originally made in a variety of flavors. Over time, it became a popular candy, especially in the United States, where it’s often associated with gingerbread house decorations and sweets. Today, gumdrops come in all colors and flavors, and you can find them in almost every candy aisle. But homemade versions have a unique charm—and a softer, chewier texture that store-bought ones just can’t beat.

Let’s talk ingredients: choosing the best for homemade gumdrops

The ingredients for gumdrops are simple, but each one plays a key role in the recipe’s success. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Sugar: Sugar provides the sweetness and structure in gumdrops. You’ll need extra for rolling the gumdrops at the end to give them that classic sparkly coating.
• Unsweetened applesauce: It may seem surprising, but applesauce makes a perfect base for desserts. It gives them a little texture without adding a lot of flavor. If you don’t have applesauce, you can try mashed pears or another light fruit, but the texture may be a little different.
• Lemon juice: Just a teaspoon, but it makes a difference! The acidity brightens up the flavor of the candy. If you’re out of lemon juice, a splash of lime juice or even apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch.

Essential kitchen tools for perfect gumdrops

You don’t need a ton of fancy tools for this recipe, but a few basics will make things easier:

• Large saucepan: This is where the magic happens. Make sure it’s big enough for all the ingredients and has room for stirring, as the mixture will bubble up as it boils.
• 13×9-inch pan: Lining this with parchment paper makes it much easier to lift the gumdrops out once they’re set. If you don’t have parchment, you could try a bit of non-stick spray, but parchment is ideal.
• Spatula: Helpful for loosening the edges of the gumdrops once they’ve set.
• Sharp knife or cookie cutters: For cutting the gumdrops into squares or fun shapes. Dipping your knife or cutters in hot water helps to get clean cuts.
• Wax paper: Once the gumdrops are sugared, place them on wax paper to dry slightly. It helps keep them from sticking together in the container.

Step-by-step: How to make homemade gumdrops

Alright, let’s dive into the recipe! Here’s how to make these delightful treats from start to finish.

1. Prep your pan: Line a 13×9-inch pan with parchment paper, making sure there’s enough overhang to lift the gumdrops out later. This makes it way easier to remove them once they’re set.
2. Combine ingredients: In a large saucepan, mix the sugar, applesauce, Jello powder, and lemon juice. Let it stand for a minute to let everything meld a bit.
3. Bring to a boil: Turn the heat to medium and start stirring. As the mixture heats, it will begin to bubble. Keep stirring constantly to avoid burning—trust me, burnt Jello is not a smell you want in your kitchen! Bring the mixture to a full boil, and let it bubble for one minute.
4. Pour and chill: Immediately pour the hot mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Then pop it in the fridge for at least three hours, or until firm. The waiting is the hardest part!
5. Cut the gumdrops: Once the gumdrops are firm, use a spatula to loosen the edges, then flip the candy onto a cutting board. Dip your knife in hot water to make slicing easier, then cut the gumdrops into squares or use small cookie cutters to make fun shapes.
6. Roll in sugar: For that classic gumdrop look, roll each piece in extra sugar. This not only makes them pretty but also helps keep them from sticking together.
7. Let them dry slightly: Place the sugared gumdrops on wax paper for a few hours to let the outer layer dry just a bit. This helps them hold up better in storage.
8. Store and enjoy: Transfer your gumdrops to an airtight container, and they’re ready to enjoy! They’ll last for a couple of weeks at room temperature (if they don’t get eaten first).

Fun variations to try

One of the best things about homemade gumdrops is how customizable they are. Here are a few ideas to get creative:

• Flavor combos: Try mixing flavors of Jello for a unique twist. Strawberry-lime is a fun, tangy option, and orange-grape creates a bold, fruity taste.
• Sugar-free: If you’re looking for a sugar-free version, try using sugar-free Jello and rolling the finished gumdrops in a sugar substitute.
• Spicy gumdrops: If you’re a fan of cinnamon gumdrops, add a pinch of cinnamon or a few drops of cinnamon oil to the mixture before boiling.

Serving and presentation tips for gifting or sharing

Homemade gumdrops make wonderful gifts! Pack them in small jars or treat bags with a festive ribbon. If you’re serving them at a party, arrange them on a colorful platter for a fun, retro vibe. You can even use them to decorate cakes or cupcakes—just be sure to add them right before serving, so they don’t absorb too much moisture.

Beverage pairings for a sweet treat

These gumdrops are delightful with a cup of tea or hot cocoa, especially if you’re serving them as an afternoon treat. If you’re looking for a refreshing option, try pairing them with lemonade or a fizzy fruit soda that complements the flavors of your gumdrops. For a cozy, wintery feel, warm apple cider with a cinnamon stick makes a perfect pairing.

Storing and keeping your gumdrops fresh

To keep your gumdrops fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last about two weeks, though you’ll likely find they disappear faster than that! If you live in a particularly humid area, you might want to add a piece of parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. Avoid refrigerating them, as the sugar coating can become sticky.

Adjusting the recipe for different batch sizes

This recipe makes a large batch, but you can easily halve it if you want a smaller amount. Just use a smaller pan—an 8×8-inch works well—and cut all the ingredient amounts in half. If you’re doubling the recipe, make sure your saucepan is large enough to handle the extra volume, and use two 13×9-inch pans for chilling.

Troubleshooting tips: common gumdrop issues

If your gumdrops come out too sticky, they may not have chilled long enough. Give them a bit more time in the fridge, or let them dry slightly longer on the wax paper. If they’re too soft, it could be due to not boiling the mixture long enough; make sure you reach a full rolling boil for at least one minute.

Give these homemade gumdrops a try!

Whether you’re making these for a holiday gathering or just for a fun kitchen project, homemade gumdrops are such a satisfying treat. Play around with different flavors, get creative with shapes, and enjoy the sweet rewards of your homemade candy. Happy candy-making!

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh fruit instead of applesauce?
A: You could try using pureed fruit, but keep in mind the texture may differ slightly. Applesauce has a consistency that works well for this recipe.

Q: How long do gumdrops need to chill?
A: About three hours in the fridge should do it. You want them to be firm before you start cutting.

Q: Why are my gumdrops sticky?
A: Sticky gumdrops may need more drying time on the wax paper. You can also try rolling them in extra sugar to help absorb moisture.

Q: Can I use sugar-free Jello?
A: Yes, sugar-free Jello works well if you’re looking to cut back on sugar. Just roll them in a sugar substitute instead of regular sugar.

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