The kitchen buzzes with excitement as I pull out the vibrant Jello packets, ready to create a holiday tradition that’s sure to bring joy. Homemade Christmas gumdrops are not just a treat; they are a nostalgic experience that transforms simple ingredients into colorful, chewy candies perfect for sharing. With only five ingredients—Jello, unsweetened applesauce, sugar, and gelatin—these delightful sweets are quick to whip up, making them an ideal project for the family. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to add a personal touch to your holiday gifting or festive gatherings. As we mix, cut, and coat them in sugar, I can already imagine their sweet fruitiness lighting up our celebrations. Are you ready to dive into this fun and easy candy-making adventure?
Why Make Homemade Christmas Gumdrops?
Simplicity: With only five ingredients, this recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Engage your little ones in the kitchen—cutting, coating, and tasting gumdrops is a delightful shared experience!
Versatile Flavors: Choose from classic Jello flavors like lime or cherry, or mix it up with seasonal variations to match your holiday spirit.
Perfect for Gifting: These colorful candies make charming gifts, beautifully presented in jars or gift baskets. Check out our ideas for Making Christmas Crack or Fun Christmas Candy to complement your sweet treats.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Their vibrant colors and chewy texture are sure to impress everyone at your holiday gatherings!
Christmas Gumdrops Ingredients
• Make these delightful treats with just five simple ingredients!
For the Gumdrops
- Granulated Sugar – Primary sweetener that gives gumdrops their delightful texture; divide for cooking and coating.
- Unsweetened Applesauce – Provides moisture and a chewy consistency; can be swapped with pureed fruits like pear for variation.
- Jello (flavored gelatin) – Infuses vibrant color and flavor; choose any fun flavor like lime or cherry for your Christmas gumdrops.
- Unflavored Gelatin – Ensures a classic chewy texture; look for popular brands like Knox to guarantee stability.
For Coating
- Additional Granulated Sugar – Use this to roll your cut gumdrops, adding a sweet, sugary finish that enhances their festive appeal.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Gumdrops
Step 1: Prepare Your Dish
Start by spraying an 11×7 or 9×13 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to ensure your Christmas gumdrops release easily later. Set the greased dish aside while you gather your ingredients and begin mixing the delightful gumdrop mixture.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large saucepan, combine 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 2 ounces of flavored Jello, and 2 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin. Let the mixture sit for 1 minute to allow the gelatin to bloom, absorbing some moisture before you heat it, which helps create the perfect chewy texture.
Step 3: Heat the Mixture
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture constantly with a wooden spoon until it comes to a gentle boil, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Once boiling, continue to stir and maintain the boil for 1 minute to ensure all ingredients are well combined and dissolved, giving your gumdrops their vibrant color and flavor.
Step 4: Set the Mixture
Carefully pour the hot gumdrop mixture into the prepared baking dish. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes, which makes handling easier. After cooling slightly, transfer the dish to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours or until the gumdrops are firm to the touch—this is crucial for that perfect chewy bite.
Step 5: Cut the Gumdrops
Once chilled and set, remove the gumdrop slab from the refrigerator. Use a metal spatula to gently loosen the edges from the dish before transferring it to a clean, sugar-coated cutting board. With mini cookie cutters or a knife, cut the slab into your desired shapes, whether festive stars or classic squares.
Step 6: Coat the Gumdrops
Roll each piece of cut gumdrop in the remaining granulated sugar until evenly coated. This step adds a lovely sparkle and sweetness, making your Christmas gumdrops even more irresistible! Arrange the coated gumdrops on a cookie sheet or platter to let them set.
Step 7: Final Setting
For the best texture, let the coated gumdrops sit at room temperature overnight. This allows them to develop a slightly firmer chewiness while keeping their delightful sweetness. Your homemade Christmas gumdrops will now be ready to share and enjoy during the holiday celebrations!
Christmas Gumdrops Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize your Christmas gumdrops with these fun ideas, adding your own twist to the flavors and textures!
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Flavor Swap: Use bold new flavors like orange or raspberry Jello for a refreshing change. Each flavor offers a unique fruity profile that can brighten your holiday spreads.
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Healthier Option: Swap out sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup to create a slightly different taste. While this may alter the texture a bit, the flavors remain delightful.
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Fruit Puree Variations: Substitute unsweetened applesauce with other fruit purees like mango or banana for creative flavor profiles. Each option will bring its own sweetness and texture to the gumdrops.
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Extract Boost: Add a splash of flavored extract, such as almond or peppermint, to deepen the taste of your gumdrops. A little goes a long way with these extracts, enhancing the holiday spirit in every bite!
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Coconut Coating: For a tropical twist, roll your gumdrops in shredded coconut instead of granulated sugar. This adds a chewy texture and a hint of coconut flavor.
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Add Heat: Infuse a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mixture for a sweet-spicy surprise. This unexpected kick will make your gumdrops stand out at any holiday gathering.
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Juice-Based Gumdrops: For a fruity spin, try replacing some of the water with freshly squeezed juice like cranberry or apple. This not only adds flavor but also contributes to a beautiful color.
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Decorative Touch: Get festive by adding edible glitter or colorful sprinkles to your gumdrops after coating them in sugar. These will add a whimsical touch to your holiday treats!
No matter which variations you choose, these homemade Christmas gumdrops are sure to spark joy in your celebrations! For more delightful holiday ideas, check out our tips for Making Christmas Crack or try out our Fun Christmas Candy.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Gumdrops
Room Temperature: Keep your Christmas gumdrops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain their chewy texture and delightful sweetness.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can store the gumdrops in the refrigerator for an extended freshness. They will last up to 10 days, but note they may become slightly firmer.
Freezer: To freeze, arrange the gumdrops in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: If you prefer a softer gumdrop, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying!
Helpful Tricks for Christmas Gumdrops
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Constant Stirring: Ensure you stir continuously while heating the mixture to prevent it from burning and to achieve the right consistency for your gumdrops.
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Heat Cookie Cutters: Dip your cookie cutters in warm water before slicing the gumdrops. This trick helps them cut through the sticky mixture more easily, preventing any tearing.
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Coating Techniques: Use granulated sugar for coating; it’s essential for that sweet finish and helps prevent the gumdrops from sticking together.
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Storage Essentials: Keep your Christmas gumdrops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain their delightful chewiness and flavor.
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Patience is Key: Let the gumdrops set overnight for the best texture. This additional time allows them to achieve that luscious chewiness everyone loves!
What to Serve with Homemade Christmas Gumdrops?
The joy of making homemade Christmas gumdrops is only enhanced when you think about what delightful companions to add to your festive spread.
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Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of rich hot cocoa provides a cozy, chocolatey contrast that perfectly complements the sweet and fruity gumdrops.
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Cheese Board: Add a variety of cheeses like sharp cheddar and creamy brie—this savory touch balances the sweetness and elevates your holiday platter.
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Sugar Cookies: Serve alongside freshly baked sugar cookies for a nostalgic, whimsical holiday treat that kids and adults will adore.
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Mixed Nuts: A bowl of spiced or candied nuts adds a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the chewy gumdrops, creating a varied texture experience.
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Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like apples or pears bring a refreshing vibe that not only looks beautiful but also provides a healthy balance to the sweet confections.
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Sparkling Water: Offer some fizzy drinks, like sparkling water infused with berries, to cleanse the palate while emphasizing the festive colors of your gumdrops.
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Peppermint Bark: Layer your holiday treats with homemade peppermint bark, marrying creamy chocolate with a minty twist, carrying festive flavors throughout your gathering.
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Holiday Cupcakes: Light, fluffy cupcakes topped with festive buttercream will delight guests and pair beautifully with the chewy candy for a sweet ending.
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Mulled Wine: A warm glass of spiced mulled wine can add a festive spirit to your gathering, creating a delightful aromatic experience alongside your sugary bites.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas gumdrops are a fantastic treat for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the gumdrop base up to 3 days in advance; simply follow the recipe instructions through to step 4 and refrigerate the mixture until firmly set. Once firm, cut and coat the gumdrops in sugar, then allow them to set at room temperature overnight for that perfect chewy texture. To maintain quality, store the finished gumdrops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This way, you’ll have delicious homemade Christmas gumdrops ready to brighten up your festive gatherings without the last-minute rush!
Christmas Gumdrops Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Christmas gumdrops?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients for Christmas gumdrops, focus on the quality of the applesauce. Opt for fresh, unsweetened applesauce without any added sugars or preservatives. If you’re using homemade applesauce, ensure it’s smooth and free of any large chunks for the best texture. For the Jello, you can choose your favorite flavors, but make sure to pick packets that are not expired for optimal flavor and color.
How should I store homemade Christmas gumdrops?
Very! Store your Christmas gumdrops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you want them to last a bit longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 10 days. Just keep in mind that refrigeration might make them slightly firmer in texture. Make sure to keep them in a dry space, as moisture can cause them to become sticky.
Can I freeze Christmas gumdrops? If so, how?
Of course! To freeze your Christmas gumdrops, first, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until they are solid, typically around 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before indulging!
What if my gumdrops are too sticky?
Ah, the joys of candy-making! If your gumdrops are sticking together or feel too sticky after cutting, don’t worry! You can lightly dust them with extra granulated sugar to help separate them and create that lovely outer coating. If they are too soft, make sure they’ve set for enough time, ideally overnight, to achieve that perfect chewy texture. If they are still too soft after this, consider adjusting your ingredient ratios on your next attempt for a firmer finish.
Are Christmas gumdrops safe for pets or people with allergies?
It’s essential to be cautious! Homemade Christmas gumdrops contain ingredients like sugar and applesauce, which are not recommended for pets, particularly dogs. If you’re making these with potential allergies in mind, double-check that the applesauce is free of added sugars, cinnamon, or any preservatives, as these can cause digestive upset. Additionally, be careful with flavored Jello, as some flavors may contain allergens; always read labels to ensure they are suitable for your guests. Enjoy your gumdrop-making adventure!
Delicious Homemade Christmas Gumdrops for Festive Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Spray an 11x7 or 9x13 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, combine 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 2 ounces of flavored Jello, and 2 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin. Let sit for 1 minute.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it comes to a gentle boil (about 4-5 minutes). Maintain the boil for 1 minute.
- Carefully pour the hot mixture into the prepared dish and let cool for about 15 minutes. Then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
- Once firm, use a metal spatula to loosen edges, transfer to a sugar-coated cutting board, and cut into desired shapes.
- Roll each piece in additional granulated sugar until evenly coated.
- Let coated gumdrops sit at room temperature overnight for best texture before enjoying.
