Christmas Gumdrops

By:

Sarah

Published:

November 1, 2025

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Creating Christmas gumdrops is such a fun way to celebrate the festive spirit! When the holiday season rolls around, the joy of making sweet treats stands out. Christmas gumdrops bring vibrant colors and delightful flavors, making them perfect for sharing or enjoying while watching your favorite holiday movies. The chewy texture and delicious taste will transport you back to childhood, filling your home with the warm memories of family gatherings. In this recipe, you’ll find all the steps to make your own gumdrops at home. Whether you end up gifting them to your loved ones or simply savoring them during cozy nights in, these gumdrops will surely spark a smile and spread holiday cheer!

Why This Recipe Works

Creating Christmas gumdrops is not only about following steps; it’s about harnessing the joy and spirit of the festive season. The combination of flavored gelatin and unflavored gelatin creates a chewy texture that melts in your mouth, while the vivid colors and vibrant flavors evoke holiday cheer.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Gumdrops

These Christmas gumdrops are more than just a treat—they’re a delightful way to bring family together during the holidays. Easy to make and utterly charming, these candy creations are perfect for gifting, sharing with friends, or savoring alongside a cozy festive movie.

Ingredients

5 cups sugar, divided
2 ⅓ cups applesauce, divided
6 ounces strawberry gelatin (2 packages, 3 ounces each)
6 ounces lime gelatin (2 packages, 3 ounces each)
4 envelopes unflavored gelatin, divided

Preparing the Strawberry Gumdrops

Combine Ingredients for Strawberry Gumdrops

In a large saucepan, stir together 2 cups of sugar, 1 ⅓ cups of applesauce, 2 packages of strawberry gelatin, and 2 envelopes of unflavored gelatin. Let this mixture sit for 1 minute.

Heat Mixture to Boil

Put the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Allow it to boil for one minute.

Pour into Pan

Immediately pour the mixture into a greased 11×7 or 9×13 pan, ensuring an even layer.

Preparing the Lime Gumdrops

Combine Ingredients for Lime Gumdrops

In a separate saucepan, repeat the process using 2 cups of sugar, 1 ⅓ cups of applesauce, 2 packages of lime gelatin, and 2 envelopes of unflavored gelatin.

Heat Mixture to Boil

Again, bring the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly, and allow it to boil for one minute.

Pour into Pan

Pour this mixture into another greased pan, similar to the previous step.

Setting and Cutting the Gumdrops

Refrigerate

Place both pans in the refrigerator for approximately 3 hours, allowing the mixtures to set completely.

Cut Into Squares

Once set, use a metal spatula to cut the mixtures into squares. Carefully transfer the squares onto wax or parchment paper.

Shape With Cookie Cutters

Using mini Christmas cookie cutters, cut the squares into festive shapes and place them on a parchment-lined tray.

Drying the Gumdrops

Allow to Dry

Let the candies dry at room temperature for at least 8 hours or overnight to achieve the perfect texture.

Coat With Sugar

After drying, take the remaining cup of sugar and dip each gumdrop, coating them thoroughly for a sweet finish.

Serving Suggestions

Present these colorful Christmas gumdrops on a festive platter as a delightful centerpiece during your holiday gatherings. They also make wonderful gifts when packaged in clear bags with a ribbon.

Tips for Success

Ensure that the pans are well greased to prevent sticking.
Experiment with different gelatin flavors to create a variety of gumdrop colors and tastes.
Allow enough drying time to create a firmer texture.

Variations

Consider using flavored extracts to enhance the gumdrop flavor.
Experiment with adding a touch of citric acid for a tart twist.
Use food coloring to enhance the vibrancy of the gumdrops.

Storage Tips

Store your Christmas gumdrops in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to two weeks, but that’s if they last that long!

Pairing Ideas

Enjoy these gumdrops with a warm cup of spiced cider or hot chocolate. They also make a cheerful addition to any holiday cookie platter.

FAQs

1. Can I use different flavors of gelatin?
Yes, you can create various flavors by using different types of gelatin, such as orange, cherry, or grape.

2. How do I prevent sticking?
Grease your pans well and be sure to dust the finished gumdrops with sugar before storing them.

3. Can I freeze these gumdrops?
While not recommended, freezing may change the texture. It’s best to store them at room temperature.

4. How long do these gumdrops last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to two weeks.

5. Can kids help with this recipe?
Absolutely! Kids will love helping to mix, cut, and coat the gumdrops—making it a fun family activity.

This Christmas gumdrop recipe invites a wave of festive spirit into your home. Share the joy of the holiday season by making these delightful treats, perfect for all ages. Their colorful appearance and bright flavors will undoubtedly spread cheer not only among family but also friends and neighbors. Enjoy making these connections through a shared, delicious experience that will remind everyone of the magic of Christmas sweetness.