Chef Mitchell preparing Festive Candy Cane Gummies
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I stumbled upon this recipe while experimenting with homemade candies during the holiday season. After several trials, I perfected the balance of flavors and textures, resulting in these delightful candy cane gummies. They’ve since become a staple at my family gatherings and a favorite among friends, celebrating the festive spirit in every chewy bite."

As a chef specializing in American cuisine, I have a passion for creating desserts that evoke nostalgia and joy. My experience in culinary arts, combined with a love for seasonal flavors, drives me to continually innovate and share delightful recipes. I believe desserts are about creating memorable experiences.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Festive Candy Cane Gummies served on a plate

Why This Festive Candy Cane Gummies Recipe Works

These Festive Candy Cane Gummies stand out for their delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of real fruit juice gives them a natural sweetness, while the peppermint extract adds a refreshing twist, making them a perfect treat for the holidays. Additionally, the candy cane sprinkles not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a fun crunch.

The technique of blooming gelatin ensures a perfect consistency and chewiness in the gummies. By controlling the heating process, we can create a smooth texture, making each gummy a delightful experience. This recipe allows for customization with different fruit juices and extracts, making it versatile for any occasion.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, use high-quality fruit juice and ensure that the gelatin is fully dissolved before pouring into molds. Also, allowing the gummies to set overnight will enhance their texture and flavor. Dusting them with confectioners' sugar keeps them from sticking together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Festive Candy Cane Gummies can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. They will maintain their texture and flavor for up to one week. Just be sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

If you want to reduce sugar, consider using honey or a sugar substitute like agave syrup. However, keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly, so adjust the amount of gelatin accordingly to maintain firmness.

The gummies are done when they are firm to the touch and have set properly. After chilling in the refrigerator, they should hold their shape and feel slightly tacky but not wet. A good test is to gently pull one out of the mold.

Freezing is not recommended for gummies as it can change their texture. They may become grainy or lose their chewy quality. It's best to store them in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.

These gummies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of cocoa or a festive holiday punch. They also make great gifts when packaged in decorative boxes or bags, adding a sweet touch to your holiday celebrations.

Properly stored in an airtight container, these gummies can last up to one week in the refrigerator. After that, they may start to lose their texture and flavor, so it's best to enjoy them fresh.

Absolutely! In fact, making them a day or two in advance allows the flavors to develop further. Just keep them properly sealed in the fridge until you're ready to serve.

Gummies should not be reheated as it can ruin their texture. If they become too firm, just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before enjoying.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The gummies may have been overcooked or not enough liquid was used.

Solution: To remedy this, make sure to follow the recipe measurements closely and avoid cooking the mixture for too long. Adding a splash more juice can help balance the texture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The outer layer may lack a crunchy coating.

Solution: To achieve a crispy exterior, ensure you cover the gummies with enough candy cane sprinkles immediately after cutting them. Letting them sit for a bit can help create a firmer crust.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the gummies have a rubbery texture, they may have been overcooked.

Prevention: Prevent this by keeping an eye on the cooking time and ensuring not to exceed the recommended heat levels.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The center of the gummies may be too soft or mushy.

Recovery: Ensure they are fully set in the fridge for the recommended time. If they still seem undercooked, you can put them back in the fridge for a few more hours.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The sugar may have caramelized too much during cooking if the exterior is burnt.

Prevention: To avoid a burnt exterior, cook over medium heat and stir frequently to prevent sticking. Lower the heat if necessary.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If too sweet, add a splash of lemon juice or more citric acid to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If too salty, consider adding more fruit juice to dilute the saltiness.

Bland: If the gummies taste bland, increase the amount of peppermint extract slightly or add a pinch of salt.

Fresh ingredients for Festive Candy Cane Gummies

Essential Ingredients for Festive Candy Cane Gummies

The key ingredients in this recipe include high-quality fruit juice, gelatin, and peppermint extract. Using real fruit juice enhances the gummies' natural flavors, while gelatin provides the perfect chewy texture. The addition of peppermint extract gives these gummies their signature holiday taste.

For the best results, choose fresh, organic ingredients when possible. This ensures a more vibrant flavor in your gummies and a healthier treat overall. Avoid using artificial flavorings, as they can lead to a less satisfying taste experience.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Gelatin: Use unflavored gelatin for the best texture. Ensure it is bloomed properly by letting it sit in liquid for a few minutes before heating it. This step is crucial for achieving that classic gummy consistency.
  • Fruit Juice: Opt for fresh-pressed fruit juice whenever possible. This adds a natural sweetness and vibrant flavor to your gummies. Avoid juices with added sugar for a more authentic taste.
  • Peppermint Extract: Choose a high-quality peppermint extract for the best flavor. A little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preference.
Cooking process for Festive Candy Cane Gummies

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for these gummies is straightforward and fun. Begin by preparing your ingredients, ensuring everything is measured and ready to go. The key to success is heating the mixture gently, allowing the gelatin to dissolve completely while not boiling the mixture.

Achieving the perfect consistency relies on patience and precision. Pour the mixture into molds carefully to avoid spills, and let them set undisturbed in the refrigerator. This will help the gummies firm up properly and develop that chewy texture we're all after.

Key Technique for Perfect Festive Candy Cane Gummies

The most important technique for making these gummies is the proper blooming of the gelatin. This step ensures that the gummies will have the right texture, so take your time with this process. Also, controlling the cooking temperature is essential to avoid overcooking, which can lead to undesirable textures.

Festive Candy Cane Gummies

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup sugar
    Granulated
  • 1 cup heavy cream
    Fresh
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
    Pure
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups fruit juice
    Choose your favorite juice
  • 1/2 cup sugar
    Adjust for sweetness
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup
    For added sweetness and texture
  • 3 tablespoons gelatin powder
    Unflavored
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
    For flavor
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    To enhance flavor
  • Red and white candy cane sprinkles
    For decoration
  • 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
    For dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Gelatin

    In a small bowl, combine the fruit juice and gelatin powder. Let sit for about 5 minutes until the gelatin blooms.

  2. Combine Ingredients

    In a saucepan, combine the bloomed gelatin, sugar, corn syrup, peppermint extract, and salt. Heat over medium until melted and smooth.

  3. Add Flavoring

    Stir in the lemon juice, citric acid, and food coloring until well mixed.

  4. Pour Mixture

    Pour the mixture into silicone molds or a greased pan, spreading evenly.

  5. Chill Gummies

    Refrigerate the gummies for at least 4 hours or until fully set.

  6. Cut and Shape

    If using a pan, cut the gummies into squares or desired shapes. Dust with confectioners' sugar to prevent sticking.

  7. Decorate

    Sprinkle candy cane bits over the gummies for a festive look.

  8. Serve and Enjoy

    Serve these delightful gummies at your holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store Festive Candy Cane Gummies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain their texture and flavor. If they start to dry out, you can briefly soak them in a little fruit juice to revive them.

Serving Suggestions

These gummies are perfect for serving at holiday parties alongside other festive treats. Consider pairing them with hot chocolate or a selection of holiday cookies for a delightful dessert table.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different fruit juices or extracts to customize the flavor of your gummies. You can also use different shapes for your molds or omit the candy cane sprinkles for a simpler look.