Homemade Gumdrops
Indulge in the sweet, chewy goodness of Homemade Gumdrops! These classic candies are surprisingly easy to make at home, and with a few simple ingredients, you can create a variety of flavors and colors to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups granulated sugar for coating
- 2 cups fruit juice (grape, orange, or apple)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar for the gumdrop mixture
- Optional: Food coloring
Directions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine your choice of fruit juice with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Stir in 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 teaspoon salt until everything is completely dissolved.
2. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin over the juice mixture and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes. This blooming process helps the gelatin dissolve more effectively.
3. Set the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture becomes warm and the gelatin is fully dissolved. Ensure you do not allow it to boil.
4. Once the mixture is smooth, carefully pour it into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish or silicone molds for fun shapes.
5. Transfer the dish to the refrigerator and let it chill for 4-6 hours, or until the gumdrops are firm and set.
6. After the gumdrops have set, gently remove them from the dish. You can either cut them into small squares or use cookie cutters to create fun shapes.
7. In a shallow dish, pour the 3 cups of granulated sugar. Roll each gumdrop in the sugar until fully coated, then shake off any excess sugar.
8. Store your homemade gumdrops in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain fresh for weeks if you can resist eating them!
Tips and Variations
1. Use a candy thermometer: To ensure your gumdrops turn out perfectly, it’s crucial to reach the correct temperature (240°F) when cooking the sugar mixture.
2. Don’t overmix: Mix the sugar mixture just until the gelatin is dissolved, then let it cool. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense gumdrops.
3. Add flavor and color: Experiment with different extracts (e.g., peppermint, orange, or lemon) and food colorings to create unique flavor combinations and colors.
4. Use a silicone candy mold: A silicone candy mold will help you create uniform gumdrops and make them easier to release.
5. Store properly: Store your gumdrops in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.
Time: Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Chilling time: 4-6 hours