How to Make Homemade Fruity Gumdrops – 12 Weeks of Christmas Candy
If you’re looking for a fun, colorful, and nostalgic candy to make this holiday season, homemade fruity gumdrops are the perfect treat! These chewy, jewel-toned candies are easy to make using unflavored gelatin, fruity-flavored Jello, and unsweetened applesauce, no candy thermometer required! Whether you’re filling candy tins, decorating cookie trays, or creating sweet gifts for friends, these gumdrops will add a cheerful pop of color and flavor to your holiday candy collection.
This recipe is part of my 12 Weeks of Christmas Candy Series, and it’s a classic that both kids and adults love. With their bright colors and soft, chewy texture, homemade gumdrops look beautiful dropped in cellophane bags or displayed in festive candy dishes.
The combination of fruity gelatin and applesauce creates the perfect balance of flavor and chewiness while keeping the recipe simple and budget-friendly.
Tips and Flavor Ideas
- Mix and match different Jello flavors to create a colorful assortment. Cherry, lime, orange, and raspberry are holiday favorites.
- For a festive twist, roll the gumdrops in sparkling sugar or colored sanding sugar.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
How to Make Homemade Fruity Gumdrops
These Homemade Fruity Gumdrops are a fun and easy candy to make for the holidays! Made with unflavored gelatin, fruity-flavored Jello, and unsweetened applesauce, they’re bursting with bright flavor and soft, chewy texture. Perfect for adding a pop of color to your Christmas candy trays or packaging as homemade gifts, these gumdrops are as beautiful as they are delicious. This simple no-candy thermometer recipe is a must-try for your holiday candy collection. Week 6 of the 12 Weeks of Christmas Candy Series!
Watch the How to Make Homemade Fruity Gumdrops Video
COLORFUL, CHEWY, AND BURSTING WITH FRUIT FLAVOR-Watch the video for the easy step-by-step tutorial
More Gumdrop Options
- SNOWFLAKE BLUEBERRY GUMDROPS
- EASY TO MAKE HALLOWEEN BAT GUMDROPS
- HOMEMADE CHRISTMAS GUMDROPS
- CHRISTMAS SNOW GLOBE GUMDROP PLACE CARDS
- HOMEMADE CHRISTMAS GUMDROP CENTERPIECE
JEWELED GUMDROP CANDY INGREDIENTS LIST-full printable recipe below in recipe card
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1½ cups unsweetened applesauce
- 2 (3-ounce) boxes gelatin (Jello, any flavor)
- 2 envelopes unflavored gelatin
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
MIXED COLORED GUMDROPS INSTRUCTIONS
- Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan or dish with nonstick cooking spray, and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, add the sugar, applesauce, flavored gelatin, unflavored gelatin, and lemon juice.
- Cook on medium-high heat until the mixture starts to boil across its entire surface.
- Turn the heat down to medium and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour into the prepared dish.
- Place the baking dish or pan in the refrigerator for 3 hours, or until the gumdrops are set and firm.
- Use an offset spatula or blunt knife to release the sides and gently lift the gelatin from the dish. Place it on a cutting board with a piece of parchment paper.
- Pour more sugar into a rimmed cookie sheet.
- Spray a large knife with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cut the gel into ½-inch strips. Coat the gummy strips the sugar.
- Set aside until all the strips have been cut and coated with sugar.
- Cut strips into ½-inch squares, and roll the newly cut area in the sugar.
- Let the gummies sit submerged in the sugar overnight to form a skin and develop a crunch on the outside.
- TIP: FOR ENHANCED FLAVOR, WAIT UNTIL THE NEXT DAY TO SERVE
HOW TO ADD MORE FLAVOR TO YOUR GUMDROPS
How do you add more flavor to your gumdrops? The answer is simple…TIME. As the gumdrops sit, they develop more flavor. I tried them as soon as I cut them, and it was hard to taste the flavor. However, as time went on, the flavor became more intense, and by the next day, they were packed with flavor.
What does adding applesauce do in homemade gumdrops?
Applesauce is the secret ingredient that gives homemade gumdrops their perfectly chewy, tender texture. Here’s what it does:
- Adds body and volume: The natural pectin in applesauce helps the candy set up with a soft, gummy consistency — not too firm like gelatin alone.
- Balances sweetness: Applesauce adds mild fruit flavor and natural tartness that keeps the gumdrops from being overly sweet, even with sugar and Jell-O.
- Improves moisture: It helps retain a bit of moisture in the candy so the gumdrops stay pleasantly chewy instead of turning hard or rubbery.
- Enhances fruit flavor: As a neutral base, applesauce allows the Jell-O flavor to shine while adding depth — especially nice with fruity flavors like cherry, orange, or lemon.
Perfect for Christmas Treat Trays
These homemade fruity gumdrops aren’t just delicious; they’re stunning on dessert tables, candy buffets, or packaged as homemade gifts. Kids love helping with the cutting and sugar coating, making it a wonderful family activity for the holidays.
This is Week 6 of the 12 Weeks of Christmas Candy Series, so if you’ve been following along, you’re halfway through a season full of sweet traditions!
12 Weeks of Christmas Candy
Sweet Traditions for the Holidays
Step back into a simpler time where homemade candies filled every kitchen with the scent of sugar, spice, and Christmas cheer. Each week brings you a new vintage-inspired treat from creamy fudge and chewy caramels to sparkling gumdrops and buttery toffees. Whether you’re making them for gift-giving, party trays, or simply to enjoy with family, these classic recipes are sure to become part of your own sweet holiday traditions. So tie on your favorite apron, dust off the candy thermometer, and let’s create a season filled with old-fashioned charm one delicious week at a time!
12 Weeks of Christmas Candy
Festive Gumdrop Holiday Display
Nothing says “Christmas cheer” quite like a colorful gumdrop holiday display! These little jewel-toned candies aren’t just tasty, they’re the perfect way to add a pop of color and whimsy to your dessert table or holiday décor. Whether you’re hosting a party, creating edible gifts, or decorating your kitchen for the season, homemade fruity gumdrops bring a nostalgic, old-fashioned touch that everyone loves.
Arrange your gumdrops in clear glass jars, vintage candy dishes, or tiered trays for a festive centerpiece that sparkles with color. Mix different Jello flavors for a rainbow of reds, greens, yellows, and oranges, or stick to classic Christmas colors like red and green for a more coordinated look. You can even shape your gumdrops with small cookie-cutter stars, trees, and hearts to add an extra touch of holiday magic.
For a playful twist, scatter gumdrops around gingerbread houses, use them to decorate cakes or cupcakes, or line them along a dessert buffet for a bright, cheerful accent. Wrap small assortments in cellophane bags tied with ribbon to give as party favors or stocking stuffer. Everyone loves a homemade candy gift!
Your gumdrop holiday display will instantly transform your dessert table into a festive wonderland, sparkly, sweet, and full of Christmas spirit. It’s a simple yet stunning way to showcase your homemade treats and celebrate the joy of candy-making during the holidays.
The Nostalgia of the Gumdrop Tree Display
WHO REMEMBERS THESE? The nostalgia of the gumdrop tree display comes from a mid-20th-century tradition of having a festive, edible decoration, often a clear plastic tree or a thorny branch, that children would decorate with gumdrops and eat from throughout the holiday season. This tradition is associated with memories of family gatherings, sensory experiences, and the simple joy of a treat that was an integral part of the Christmas decorations.
Packaging Homemade Gumdrops for Gifting
Homemade gumdrops make adorable edible gifts that are as fun to give as they are to receive! Their bright colors and sparkling sugar coating make them look like little jewels, perfect for Christmas baskets, party favors, or hostess gifts.
For a classic presentation, place an assortment of gumdrops in clear cellophane treat bags and tie them with festive ribbon or baker’s twine. Add a small gift tag with the flavor or a simple holiday greeting, such as “Sweet Christmas Wishes” or “Handmade with Love.”
If you’re putting together holiday gift boxes or cookie trays, tuck the gumdrops into mini candy cups or small mason jars, separating them with a layer of parchment paper to keep them fresh and crisp. For a rustic touch, decorate jars with gingham fabric, raffia bows, or mini ornaments.
You can even create themed assortments by pairing gumdrops with other homemade candies from your 12 Weeks of Christmas Candy series, ike marshmallows, caramels, or pecan clusters, for a truly thoughtful and festive gift.
With a little creativity, your packaged gumdrops will look just as beautiful as any store-bought candy, only these are made with love and full of homemade holiday charm.
How to Store Homemade Gumdrops
To keep your homemade fruity gumdrops fresh and chewy, proper storage is key. After coating them in sugar, let the gumdrops sit out at room temperature for about an hour to allow the sugar coating to set. Then, transfer them to an airtight container lined with parchment paper.
Store your gumdrops at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to two weeks. If you live in a humid area, add a small piece of wax paper or parchment between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
Avoid storing gumdrops in the refrigerator, as moisture can cause the sugar coating to dissolve and the candies to become sticky. For long-term storage, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to two months, though the texture may soften slightly once thawed.
With the right storage, your homemade gumdrops will stay vibrant, sweet, and ready to enjoy all season long, making them perfect for snacking, decorating, or gifting.
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Homemade Fruity Gumdrops Made with Jell-O — FAQ
What kind of Jell-O works best for gumdrops?
Regular gelatin dessert mix (like Jell-O brand) works perfectly. Choose any flavor you love, cherry, lime, orange, or lemon, which are especially festive for the holidays. Avoid sugar-free gelatin since it doesn’t set up as firmly, and the texture won’t be as chewy.
Can I make gumdrops in different shapes?
Absolutely! Pour the mixture into a parchment-lined pan for easy cutting into cubes, or use small silicone molds for fun shapes, such as stars, hearts, or Christmas trees. Be sure to lightly coat the molds with cooking spray so the candies release cleanly.
How long do homemade gumdrops take to set?
They’ll need about 8 hours or overnight to firm up at room temperature. For optimal results, store them in a cool, dry place, uncovered. If your kitchen is humid, refrigerate them briefly to help the candy set.
How do I keep the gumdrops from sticking together?
Once set, cut the gumdrops and roll them in granulated sugar to coat all sides. This not only keeps them from sticking but also gives that classic sparkle. Store them in layers, separating each layer with wax paper.
What does adding applesauce do in homemade gumdrops?
Applesauce is the secret to that soft, chewy candy-shop texture. The natural pectin gives the candy body and helps it set with the perfect bite. It also balances the sweetness, adds gentle fruit flavor, and keeps the gumdrops from drying out or becoming rubbery. The result is a tender, juicy gumdrop that tastes as good as it looks.
What happens if I don’t add applesauce to the recipe?
If you skip the applesauce, your gumdrops will still firm up, but they’ll be denser, stiffer, and slightly rubbery. The flavor will be much sweeter and more artificial since there’s no natural fruit base to balance the sugar. In short, you’ll lose that old-fashioned candy texture that makes these homemade gumdrops so special.
How long will homemade gumdrops last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a month. Just bring them to room temperature before serving for the best chewy texture.
Can I mix flavors or colors?
Definitely! Try layering two flavors in the same pan (let the first layer set before adding the next). Or pour small batches of different Jell-O flavors into separate pans for a rainbow assortment.
Are these good for gifting?
Homemade gumdrops make adorable edible gifts! Package them in cellophane bags, small jars, or vintage candy tins. Add a festive ribbon and gift tag; they’re perfect for holiday treat boxes or party favors.
LATEST POSTS
Bring a splash of color and a touch of nostalgia to your holiday candy tray with these simple, chewy, fruity gumdrops. They’re the kind of treat that reminds us why homemade is always worth it — bright flavors, soft texture, and that irresistible old-fashioned sparkle. I hope this recipe inspires you to try new flavors, share a few with friends, and maybe even start a sweet new tradition of your own. Ready to make a batch? Grab your favorite Jell-O flavor and let the candy making begin! ❤️Sheryl
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How to Make Homemade Fruity Gumdrops
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1½ cups unsweetened applesauce
- 2 (3 ounce) boxes gelatin (Jello-any flavor)
- 2 envelopes unflavored gelatin
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Spray a 9x13-inch baking pan or dish with nonstick cooking spray, and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, add the sugar, applesauce, flavored gelatin, unflavored gelatin, and lemon juice.
- Cook on medium-high heat until the mixture starts to boil across its entire surface.
- Turn the heat down to medium and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour into the prepared dish.
- Place the baking dish or pan in the refrigerator for 3 hours, or until the gumdrops are set and firm.
- Use an offset spatula or blunt knife to release the sides and gently lift the gelatin from the dish. Place it on a cutting board with a piece of parchment paper.
- Pour more sugar into a rimmed cookie sheet.
- Spray a large knife with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cut the gel into ½-inch strips. Coat the gummy strips the sugar.
- Set aside until all the strips have been cut and coated with sugar.
- Cut strips into ½-inch squares, and roll the newly cut area in the sugar.
- Let the gummies sit submerged in the sugar overnight to form a skin and develop a crunch on the outside.
- TIP: FOR ENHANCED FLAVOR, WAIT UNTIL THE NEXT DAY TO SERVE
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