Classic Sugar-Coated Gumdrops

Nov 3, 2026 · By VanillaGoods

Dessert Candy confections Medium

Gumdrops are soft, chewy, fruit-flavored cubes of sugar and corn syrup set with gelatin, rolled in sugar for their familiar sparkle. They need a day to set and a day to dry. Makes 64 gumdrops in about 72 hr 25 min.

Prep 25 min

Cook 1440 min

Cooling 48 hr

Total 72 hr 25 min

Yield 64 gumdrops

Diet Dairy free, Gluten free

Ingredients

Adjust yield

gumdrops

3 tbsp (28 g)unflavored gelatin, about 4 envelopes
½ cup (120 ml)cold water, for the gelatin
2 cups (400 g)granulated sugar, for the candy
½ cup (120 ml)light corn syrup
½ cup (120 ml)water, for the syrup
1 tsp (5 ml)fruit flavoring or extract
½ tsp (2 ml)food coloring, a few drops
½ cup (100 g)granulated sugar, for rolling, for the coating

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Instructions

Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square pan with parchment and lightly oil it.
Sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water in a small bowl and let it bloom 5 minutes.
Combine the sugar, corn syrup and the second measure of water in a heavy saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then cook without stirring to 230 F (110 C) on a candy thermometer.
Remove from the heat, stir in the gelatin until fully dissolved and smooth, then stir in the flavoring and color.
Let the foam settle for a minute, skim it off and pour into the pan.
Let it set uncovered at room temperature for 24 hours until firm.
Turn out, cut into 3/4-inch (2 cm) cubes with an oiled knife and toss in sugar. Spread on a rack and let dry for another 24 hours, turning once, so the outsides become lightly crisp.

Tips

Skim the foam for clear, glossy candies.
Use a wet or oiled knife to cut cleanly.
Humid days slow the drying; a fan helps.
Sugar syrup reaches 230 F (110 C) and causes serious burns; handle carefully.

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Recipe FAQ

How long does it take to make classic sugar-coated gumdrops?

Plan on 25 minutes of prep and 24 hours of cooking, plus 48 hours to chill. The recipe makes 64 gumdrops.

How should I store classic sugar-coated gumdrops?

Store airtight at room temperature up to 2 weeks.

Can I make classic sugar-coated gumdrops ahead?

Yes. It needs time to chill and set, so it is a good one to make the day before you serve it.

Estimated · per serving

Nutrition

Per serving = 1 of 64 servings this recipe makes.

40 Calories / serving

0.0g Fat

8.3g Carbs

2.0g Protein

7.0g Sugar

Whole recipe (64 servings): ~2560 cal · 0g fat · 531g carbs · 128g protein · 448g sugar

Estimated values per serving, calculated from standard ingredient data. Not verified Nutrition Facts; actual values vary with brands, measurements, and preparation.