Gumdrops Recipe
This Gumdrops Recipe is super easy and versatile for any occasion. Change the flavor for the holiday, and you have a sweet, chewy treat that everyone will love. They make perfect gifts too.
These Gumdrops are soft and sweet but not too sweet. I started with the same recipe I used for the Valentine’s Day Treats, and the secret…applesauce. Who would have known? Jello is the key to the different colors- so easy!
When I made the Valentine’s Day Gumdrops, I cut them with a cookie cutter into heart shapes. But this time I decided to keep them all the same and cut them into 1 inch squares. I didn’t have enough of the same size of pan to make all of the flavors, so I found some 13 x 9 x 1/2″ cookie sheets. The size was perfect.
I think they are perfect for any time of year. But I especially love all the flavors together. They would be a great Christmas gift for a teacher, neighbor or co-worker also. They would be super cute in little cellophane bags!
But of course, if you want to make red and green for Christmas, they would be awesome too!
Whatever color or shape you make (there are so many options in this cute set), they always taste great! Send us a picture if you try it!
Gumdrops Recipe
Soft, chewy and delicious. These Gumdrops can be made in any flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar {plus a little for rolling gum drops}
- 1 + 1/3 cups applesauce, unsweetened
- 2 small (3 oz) boxes Jello, any flavor
- 2 envelopes (4 teaspoons) unflavored gelatin {like Knox}
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Line 13x9 pan with parchment paper
- In a large saucepan, combine all ingredients, let stand 1 minute
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly, boil for 1 minute
- Immediately pour into prepared pan
- Place in refrigerator for 3 hours or until firm
- Loosen sides from pan with a spatula
- Turn Gum Drops onto a cutting board
- Cut out gum drops using a knife dipped in hot water to cut squares or a cookie cutter
- Roll Gum Drops in extra sugar, set onto wax paper until slightly dry
- Store in an airtight container
how long do i dry them for
Hi Ella, the gumdrops should be slightly dry, so it will depend on the humidity in your house.
I would assume 1-2 hours should be fine. Be sure they have parchment paper or wax paper in between the layers if you are stacking them to store.
-Liz
I used oiled silicone molds. they came out pretty easy. thanks!
Great idea, thanks Susan!
-Liz
I want to make these as a “mock” turkish delight…. can I coat them in powdered sugar rather than regular sugar?
Hi Sarah, I have not tried rolling the gumdrops in powdered sugar, however I think it should be fine.
-Liz
How long do you think they are good for after making? I’m storing them in the fridge in an airtight container.
Hi Katrina, the gumdrops should be fine for at least 2 weeks. I would be sure you have parchment or wax paper in between the layers if you stacked them.
-Liz
I make these for my neighbors and family. They love them! Just wondering if I need to use lemon juice.
Hi Brenda, so glad to hear you all liked the gumdrops.
The lemon juice will provide a bit of acid to the recipe, you can try and leave it out.
I have always made them with it, so I don’t know how they will turn out.
-Liz