The festive season brings a delightful charm that invites us to revisit cherished traditions, and making homemade Christmas gumdrops is one of the most nostalgic activities. They remind us of joyful celebrations, sweet treats, and the warmth of family gatherings. Simple to prepare and delicious to enjoy, these festive candies can light up your holiday season.
Crafting your own gumdrops allows for individual creativity! Just imagine the joy of sharing colorful, chewy candies that you made yourself. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to engage kids in the holiday spirit, making it a fun family activity.
Why Make This Recipe
Creating homemade Christmas gumdrops gives you control over the ingredients and flavors, allowing for a customized treat that can cater to every palate. These colorful candies can serve as perfect gifts or decorations for your holiday table. Unlike store-bought options filled with preservatives, your homemade gumdrops can be made with fresh ingredients, enhancing both taste and quality.
Making gumdrops at home can be a cost-effective option, especially when made in large batches. They also have a personal touch that goes beyond sugary delights — they become a part of your holiday story, shared with friends and family.
Equipment Needed for Easy Homemade Christmas Gumdrops
To make your homemade Christmas gumdrops, you will need a few essential pieces of equipment. Gather these tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience:
- A saucepan
- A mixing bowl
- A whisk
- An 8-inch square pan
- Parchment paper
- A candy thermometer
- A spatula
- A sifter or fine mesh strainer
- Tablespoon or cookie scoop
What You Need to Make Easy Homemade Christmas Gumdrops
To make these delightful gumdrops, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2½ cups sugar, divided
- 1⅓ cups applesauce
- 2 packages (3 ounces each) cherry gelatin
- 2 envelopes unflavored gelatin
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 packages (3 ounces each) lime gelatin
- 2 envelopes unflavored gelatin
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
How to Cook Easy Homemade Christmas Gumdrops Step by Step
Start by preparing your square pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment with non-stick spray to prevent the gumdrops from sticking.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of sugar with the applesauce. Stir the mixture continuously until it begins to warm up. As the sugar dissolves, add in one package of cherry gelatin and one envelope of unflavored gelatin. Keep stirring until everything is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
Next, add the teaspoon of lemon juice to the mixture, and continue to stir. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while ensuring it doesn’t boil. This can take several minutes, so be patient. Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature and aim for about 240°F. Once it reaches this stage, remove the saucepan from the heat.
Pour the hot gumdrop mixture into the prepared square pan. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, leveling it out as much as you can. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 4 hours, or until it is firm.
While the cherry gumdrops are setting, repeat the same process for the lime gumdrops. In a clean saucepan, dissolve the remaining cup of sugar with applesauce, then stir in the lime gelatin and another envelope of unflavored gelatin.
Once your lime mixture reaches the right temperature, pour it into another prepared square pan lined with parchment. After it cools and firms up, your gumdrop creations will be ready for the next step.
Once both flavors are set and firm, remove them from their pans carefully by lifting the parchment paper. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice both gumdrops into small squares, making sure to cut them evenly.
For the finishing touch, place the remaining sugar in a bowl and toss the cut gumdrops in it to coat them. This process helps make them less sticky and adds a nice texture to the outside. Spread the gumdrops out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to allow them to dry for another hour.
How to Make Easy Homemade Christmas Gumdrops
To make your gumdrops, the key is to be precise in your measurements and to keep an eye on the temperature. Carefully follow the steps outlined, and don’t rush the cooling process. Tasting is essential, so make sure to sample a few pieces along the way.
It’s also crucial to maintain a clean workspace, as making candy can get sticky. Have all your ingredients prepared and readily available to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
How to Serve Easy Homemade Christmas Gumdrops
These festive gumdrops can be served in various delightful ways. You can simply place them on a decorative platter, showcasing their vibrant colors. They also work perfectly as party favors in small bags tied with ribbons.
Consider using them as fun decorations on holiday cakes or cupcakes. Sprinkling them over desserts can add an exciting twist that guests will enjoy.
What to Serve with Easy Homemade Christmas Gumdrops
Christmas gumdrops pair wonderfully with other festive treats. You might consider serving them alongside gingerbread cookies or fruitcake for a varied holiday offering.
Hot beverages like eggnog or spiced apple cider complement the sweet flavors of gumdrops, making for a perfect winter afternoon treat.
How to Store Easy Homemade Christmas Gumdrops
To keep your homemade gumdrops fresh, place them in an airtight container. Make sure they are completely cooled and coated in sugar before storage. It’s best to store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Lined parchment paper between the layers of gumdrops can prevent them from sticking to each other. If stored properly, these candies can last up to two weeks, though they’re often gone much sooner!
Tips to Make Easy Homemade Christmas Gumdrops
To make your gumdrops extra special, try these helpful tips:
- Use high-quality gelatin for the best texture and flavor.
- Experiment with different fruit flavors by using a variety of gelatin.
- Consider adding a touch of food coloring to the mixture for more vibrant hues.
- If you prefer a less sweet option, reduce the sugar slightly in the recipe.
Variation
Try substituting applesauce with fruit puree or juice to switch up the flavor profile of the gumdrops. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg can be interesting.
Making layered gumdrops is another fun variation — simply layer different flavors before they fully set, creating pretty visual effects.
Best Time to Make Easy Homemade Christmas Gumdrops
The best time to prepare your Christmas gumdrops is during the weeks leading up to the holidays. Making them ahead allows you to store them and enjoy them near the festive season.
These candies can even be a delightful afternoon activity with children on a chilly winter day. The process is fun and yields rewarding results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making gumdrops, several mistakes can affect the final product.
Don’t rush the cooling process; make sure they are fully firm before cutting them. Overheating the mixture can also lead to a tough texture. Always measure ingredients accurately, as candy making relies heavily on precise proportions.
Avoid skipping the sugar coating at the end, as it helps prevent sticking. Lastly, be mindful of the temperature to ensure the right consistency.
Nutritional Notes
Homemade gumdrops can be a fun treat, but keep in mind their sugar content. These candies are mostly composed of sugar and fruit flavorings, so moderation is key. They provide no significant nutritional benefits but can be enjoyed occasionally as a festive treat.
FAQs
Can I use different flavors of gelatin?
Yes! You can experiment with any flavor of gelatin you prefer, from strawberry to orange.
How long do homemade gumdrops last?
If stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to two weeks.
Can I freeze gumdrops?
While it is possible to freeze gumdrops, they may become sticky when thawed. It’s best to store them at room temperature.
Conclusion
Easy homemade Christmas gumdrops are a delightful treat for the holiday season. They’re fun to make, customizable, and offer a personal touch that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. As a festive activity, it encourages creativity and togetherness, capturing the spirit of the holidays. These candies bring smiles and sweetness, making them a cherished tradition for years to come. Whether enjoyed at home, gifted to friends, or used to decorate festive desserts, these gumdrops are sure to become a holiday favorite!
