Christmas Gumdrops Recipe
Christmas Gumdrops are the quintessential holiday treat, adding a burst of color, sweetness, and cheer to any festive occasion. These homemade candies are not only fun to make but also perfect for gifting, party platters, or simply enjoying with loved ones. Their fruity flavors, paired with playful shapes, make them a standout addition to holiday traditions.
Ingredients Breakdown
The recipe uses simple yet key ingredients that work together to create the perfect gumdrop texture and flavor.
Flavored jello is the star of the recipe, providing vibrant colors and distinct fruity flavors. Lime and cherry jello are especially festive, aligning beautifully with the holiday theme. For other occasions, you can experiment with various flavors to match your preferences.
Unflavored gelatin is essential for creating the firm yet chewy texture that defines gumdrops. It works in tandem with the jello to ensure the candies hold their shape while maintaining their soft, biteable consistency.
Unsweetened applesauce adds a subtle tartness to balance the sweetness while contributing moisture, helping the gelatin mixture set smoothly without being overly sticky.
Granulated sugar plays a dual role. It sweetens the mixture and serves as a coating for the finished gumdrops, giving them a sparkling, festive appearance. Using sugar to coat ensures the candies don’t stick together and adds an irresistible crunch to every bite.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Preparation is key to making flawless gumdrops, and each step builds toward a delightful end result.
Start by preparing your dish. Spraying an 11×7 or 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray is crucial to prevent the gelatin mixture from adhering to the pan. A well-greased dish ensures easy transfer later on.
Combine the sugar, applesauce, flavored jello, and unflavored gelatin in a large saucepan. Let the mixture stand for about a minute. This resting period allows the gelatin to bloom, which enhances its ability to dissolve smoothly during cooking.
As the mixture heats over medium flame, stir constantly to avoid any lumps or sticking. Once it reaches a boil, let it cook for exactly one minute. This step ensures the gelatin activates fully while maintaining a smooth consistency. Immediately pour the hot mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly for uniform thickness.
Allow the gelatin mixture to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then refrigerate for at least three hours or until the gumdrop base is firm to the touch. Proper chilling ensures easy cutting and handling later.
When ready, sprinkle a cutting board with granulated sugar and gently loosen the gelatin sheet from the pan using a metal spatula. Transfer it to the sugared surface, either as a whole sheet or in manageable sections.
Using mini cookie cutters, cut the gelatin into festive shapes. Recoat your shapes with sugar by rolling them in a shallow bowl of granulated sugar. This final coating keeps them from sticking together and enhances their presentation.
Recipe Tips
To prevent sticking, ensure the dish is evenly greased with non-stick spray before pouring the gelatin mixture.
Use sturdy mini cookie cutters with clean edges for precise shapes. Holiday-themed designs like stars, trees, or snowflakes add extra charm.
Store the gumdrops in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain freshness.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Pair these vibrant gumdrops with an assortment of holiday cookies and fudge for a colorful dessert platter. Their fruity flavors also complement warm beverages like hot chocolate or spiced cider, making them a perfect addition to holiday gatherings.
For gifting, arrange the gumdrops in clear bags tied with festive ribbons or pack them into decorative tins lined with parchment paper. Their cheerful appearance and homemade touch are sure to delight recipients.
Variations and Additions
For a more colorful assortment, use a variety of jello flavors like orange, raspberry, or grape. Adding edible glitter or festive sprinkles to the sugar coating can make the gumdrops sparkle even more.
Layering different jello flavors within the same batch creates stunning multicolored gumdrops. Simply pour one flavor, allow it to set partially, and then pour the next layer on top.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sugar substitutes to make this recipe lower in sugar?
Yes, but choose a sugar substitute that works well for coatings and doesn’t clump.
How long can these gumdrops be stored, and what’s the best way to store them?
They can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Keep them in a cool, dry place for optimal freshness.
What can I do if the gumdrop mixture sticks to the dish during transfer?
Run a thin knife or spatula along the edges to gently loosen the mixture. Ensure the dish is well-greased next time.
Can I double the recipe, and are there adjustments for different dish sizes?
Yes, the recipe can be doubled. Use a larger dish or multiple pans to maintain the same thickness as the original.
Christmas Gumdrops are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a fun and festive way to celebrate the season. From their vibrant colors to their playful shapes, they bring a touch of homemade charm to any holiday spread. Experiment with flavors, decorations, and gift packaging to make these candies truly your own, and enjoy sharing the joy they bring.
Ingredients
6 ounces jello (lime or cherry recommended)
2 envelopes unflavored gelatin (e.g., Knox)
1 â…“ cups unsweetened applesauce
2 ½ cups granulated sugar, divided
Instructions
Begin by preparing an 11×7 or 9×13-inch baking dish. Spray it generously with non-stick cooking spray and set aside for later use.
In a large saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar, the applesauce, flavored jello, and unflavored gelatin. Stir the mixture thoroughly and let it rest for about one minute to allow the gelatin to bloom.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously to prevent sticking. Once it begins to boil, allow it to cook for exactly one minute. Immediately pour the hot gelatin mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Let the mixture cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for a minimum of 3 hours, or until the gelatin has completely set.
Prepare a large cutting board by lining it with parchment paper and sprinkling it generously with sugar. Use a metal spatula to gently loosen the gelatin sheet from the edges and bottom of the baking dish. Carefully transfer the gelatin to the prepared cutting board. You can move the entire sheet at once or cut it into 6–8 large sections and transfer them individually.
Using mini cookie cutters, cut the gelatin into festive shapes and place them back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow the gumdrops to sit at room temperature for at least 8 hours or overnight to develop their texture.
Pour the remaining granulated sugar into a shallow bowl. Roll each gumdrop shape in the sugar, ensuring they are evenly coated. Your Christmas Gumdrops are now ready to serve or gift!
Christmas Gumdrops Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 ounces jello lime or cherry recommended
- 2 envelopes unflavored gelatin e.g., Knox
- 1 â…“ cups unsweetened applesauce
- 2 ½ cups granulated sugar divided
Instructions
- Begin by preparing an 11×7 or 9×13-inch baking dish. Spray it generously with non-stick cooking spray and set aside for later use.
- In a large saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar, the applesauce, flavored jello, and unflavored gelatin. Stir the mixture thoroughly and let it rest for about one minute to allow the gelatin to bloom.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously to prevent sticking. Once it begins to boil, allow it to cook for exactly one minute. Immediately pour the hot gelatin mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Let the mixture cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for a minimum of 3 hours, or until the gelatin has completely set.
- Prepare a large cutting board by lining it with parchment paper and sprinkling it generously with sugar. Use a metal spatula to gently loosen the gelatin sheet from the edges and bottom of the baking dish. Carefully transfer the gelatin to the prepared cutting board. You can move the entire sheet at once or cut it into 6–8 large sections and transfer them individually.
- Using mini cookie cutters, cut the gelatin into festive shapes and place them back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow the gumdrops to sit at room temperature for at least 8 hours or overnight to develop their texture.
- Pour the remaining granulated sugar into a shallow bowl. Roll each gumdrop shape in the sugar, ensuring they are evenly coated. Your Christmas Gumdrops are now ready to serve or gift!
Notes
- Store gumdrops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- To create red and green gumdrops, prepare the recipe twice, using lime jello for green and cherry jello for red.
- Heat cookie cutters in hot water before cutting to easily slice through the chewy gumdrops without sticking.
- If cookie cutters aren’t available, use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to neatly slice the gumdrops into small pieces.
- The gelatin mixture may feel very sticky, but persistently slide a metal spatula underneath and gently pull—it will eventually release.