Table of Contents: Homemade Christmas Gumdrops
Homemade Christmas Gumdrops
Thereβs something magical about the holiday season that calls for timeless traditions, and nothing says βChristmasβ quite like homemade gumdrops. These festive, bite-sized candies are a nostalgic treat that will transport you back to childhood holidays filled with warmth and joy. Whether youβre looking to create a handmade gift for loved ones or simply want to add a touch of whimsy to your dessert table, this Old Fashioned Gumdrop Recipe is your ticket to holiday bliss. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, these gumdrops are a festive must-have that everyone will adore.
Introduction: HOMEMADE CHRISTMAS GUMDROPS
The holiday season is all about creating memories, and what better way to do that than with a batch of Homemade Christmas Gumdrops? These delightful candies are a nod to simpler times, where families gathered in the kitchen to craft sweet treats from scratch. This recipe is perfect for those who cherish the flavors of the past but want a modern, fuss-free approach.
Made with simple ingredients and a dash of holiday spirit, these gumdrops are a versatile treat. Theyβre ideal for holiday parties, family gatherings, or even as thoughtful handmade gifts. Plus, with this Easy Homemade Gumdrops recipe, you donβt need to be a candy-making expert to get it right. Itβs a fun and rewarding project thatβs sure to bring smiles to faces of all ages.
This recipe also includes a Spice Gumdrops variation, which adds a warm, festive flavor thatβs perfect for the season. Whether youβre a seasoned baker or a beginner, these gumdrops are a delightful way to celebrate the holidays. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and letβs make some holiday magic!
Alternate Names & Variations
Homemade gumdrops go by many names, depending on the region and the era. You might hear them called βspiced gumdrops,β βjelly gumdrops,β or even βholiday gumdrops.β If youβre searching for similar recipes, try looking for βOld Fashioned Gumdrop Recipeβ or βSpice Gumdrops Recipe.β
For a fun twist, consider adding different flavor extracts like peppermint, lemon, or even a dash of rum for a grown-up treat. You can also experiment with food coloring to create a vibrant array of gumdrops thatβll look stunning on your holiday table.
Ingredients: HOMEMADE CHRISTMAS GUMDROPS

Homemade Christmas Gumdrops
Hereβs what youβll need to make these festive candies:
- β 2 cups granulated sugar
- β 1 cup water
- β 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- β 2 packets unflavored gelatin (or 1 tablespoon)
- β 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- β 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for Spice Gumdrops variation)
- β 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional, for extra spice)
- β 3β4 drops food coloring (red, green, or your favorite holiday hues)
- β 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan: Lightly grease an 8Γ8-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/2 cup of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
3. Make the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and remaining 1/2 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil and cook for 1 minute without stirring.
4. Combine Gelatin and Syrup: Remove the syrup from heat and gently whisk in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Stir in the vanilla extract and spices (if using). Add a few drops of food coloring and mix well.
5. Pour and Set: Carefully pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Let it cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for 3β4 hours or until set.
6. Cut and Coat: Once set, lift the gelatin block out of the pan using the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife or cookie cutters to cut into bite-sized pieces. Toss the gumdrops in granulated sugar to coat.
Chefβs Tip: For a fun holiday twist, use festive cookie cutters like stars, trees, or snowflakes to shape your gumdrops.
Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time, with an additional 4 hours for setting. It yields approximately 36 gumdrops, each with around 45 calories. Perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or packaging as gifts!
Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips
This Homemade Christmas Gumdrops recipe is a winner because itβs simple, nostalgic, and customizable. The combination of gelatin and syrup creates a soft, chewy texture thatβs irresistible, while the spices and colors add a festive flair.
For best results, use a candy thermometer to ensure the syrup reaches the right temperature (235Β°F). If youβre short on time, you can skip the coating step, but the sugar adds a delightful crunch and keeps the gumdrops from sticking together.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
Store your gumdrops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. To prevent sticking, separate layers with parchment paper. These candies freeze wellβjust place them in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
People Also Ask: HOMEMADE CHRISTMAS GUMDROPS

Homemade Christmas Gumdrops
What are homemade gumdrops made of?
Homemade gumdrops are typically made from a mixture of sugar, water, corn syrup, and gelatin. Flavorings like vanilla extract or spices can be added for extra taste, while food coloring creates vibrant hues.
How long does it take for homemade gumdrops to set?
Once the gumdrop mixture is poured into the pan, it takes about 1 hour to cool at room temperature and an additional 3β4 hours in the refrigerator to fully set.
Why are my homemade gumdrops sticky?
Sticky gumdrops are often caused by insufficient coating of sugar or high humidity. Make sure to toss them generously in granulated sugar and store them in a cool, dry place.
How do you store homemade gumdrops?
Store homemade gumdrops in an airtight container at room temperature. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Conclusion: HOMEMADE CHRISTMAS GUMDROPS
Thereβs nothing quite like the joy of creating something special from scratch, and these Homemade Christmas Gumdrops are a perfect way to celebrate the season. Whether youβre making them for family, friends, or yourself, theyβre sure to bring a little extra sweetness to your holidays.
Weβd love to hear about your gumdrop-making adventures! Share your results, tips, or photos in the comments below. And donβt forget to pin this recipe for laterβitβs a holiday classic youβll want to revisit year after year.
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Homemade Christmas Gumdrops
- Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 60 gumdrops 1x
Description
Festive and fruity Homemade Christmas Gumdrops made from scratch with simple ingredients β perfect for gifting or holiday snacking.
Ingredients
- 2 Β½ cups granulated sugar, divided
- 1 Β½ cups unsweetened applesauce
- 2 (3 oz) boxes of flavored gelatin (cherry, lime, etc.)
- 2 envelopes unflavored gelatin
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Butter or nonstick spray for greasing
- Extra sugar for coating
Instructions
- Grease a 9Γ13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray and set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine 1 Β½ cups sugar, applesauce, flavored gelatin, unflavored gelatin, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 1 minute while continuing to stir.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and refrigerate uncovered for at least 3 hours or until fully set.
- Once set, loosen the edges and invert the gumdrop slab onto a cutting board sprinkled with Β½ cup sugar.
- Cut into small squares or festive shapes using cookie cutters.
- Roll each gumdrop in the remaining sugar until well coated.
- Let the gumdrops sit at room temperature for 1 hour to firm up slightly.
- Store in an airtight container with layers of wax paper between them.
Notes
Use different gelatin flavors for a colorful variety. These gumdrops make great edible gifts when wrapped in clear bags with ribbons.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 gumdrop
- Calories: 30
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: gumdrops, homemade candy, Christmas treats, gelatin candy, holiday sweets