Here is a speedy, crowd-pleasing candy idea that uses pantry staples to create a soft, chewy treat with a bright fruit flavor. While it shines for Valentine’s Day, this recipe travels well across holidays and seasons. It adapts easily for Christmas gatherings, Easter baskets, birthday celebrations, or simply as a playful sweet that brightens any afternoon. The approach is friendly for cooks in Canada and the United States, with ingredients and steps that many households already stock. The result is glossy gumdrops that hold their shape after chilling and can be dressed up with colored sugar for festive looks.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED:
- Two cups of granulated sugar, plus a little extra for rolling. The sugar helps form a sparkling, sweet coating as the gumdrops cool. Use standard granulated sugar for best texture; a touch of fine sugar dusted on the surface prevents sticking and creates a denser crust on the finished shapes.
- One and one third cups unsweetened applesauce. This provides moisture, body, and a gentle sweetness that balances the gelatin’s texture. For a smoother texture, whisk the applesauce before mixing; if a thicker texture is desired, a tablespoon or two of water can be added to adjust consistency. The applesauce keeps the flavor mild and kid friendly, making it easy to season later by adding natural fruit extracts or a dash of citrus zest if desired.
- Three packets of two ounce gelatin dessert mix in any color. The color choice lets one tailor the gumdrops to the season: red and white for Valentine, green and red for Christmas, pastel tones for spring, or bold hues for birthdays. The gelatin helps set the candy to a chewy bite.
- Two envelopes unflavoured gelatin. This additional unflavoured gelatin strengthens the set so the gumdrops keep their shape during storage and handling. It ensures the final candy is firm yet tender to bite, which is ideal for little hands and big appetites alike.
- A teaspoon lemon juice, plus a greased pan to set the mixture. The lemon brightens the flavor profile with a hint of citrus that cuts sweetness and adds liveliness to the chew. If preferred, lime juice or a splash of orange juice can be used instead. The greased pan ensures clean release after chilling.
HOW TO PREPARE:
- All ingredients are combined in a saucepan and allowed to stand briefly so flavors can mingle. If a child is helping, adult supervision is advised for stove use.
- The mixture is brought to a boil over medium heat, with constant stirring, and kept at a rolling boil for two minutes.
- The hot mixture is poured into the greased pan and placed in the refrigerator for about three hours until a firm sheet forms.
- Once firm, the sheet is lifted with a spatula and cut into shapes of choice. The pieces are then rolled in extra sugar to help the coating dry at a gentle pace.
- The finished gumdrops are allowed to dry briefly and are ready to be enjoyed.