Are you looking for a fun and delicious homemade treat that’s perfect for parties or a special night in? Look no further! These boozy gummy bears are surprisingly easy to make, bursting with fruity flavor, and pack a delightful alcoholic kick. Forget store-bought sweets; this recipe lets you customize the flavors and alcohol to your liking, creating a truly unique and unforgettable dessert. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fruit juice (any flavor you prefer – we recommend cranberry, mango, or pineapple)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light corn syrup
- 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
- ¼ cup vodka or other liquor of your choice (optional, for a non-alcoholic version, simply omit)
- Pinch of salt
- Food coloring (optional, for vibrant gummy bears)
- Gummy bear molds (silicone molds are easiest to work with)
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Gummy Bear Mixture
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Bloom the gelatin: In a medium bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the fruit juice. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes to allow the gelatin to fully absorb the liquid and soften. This step is crucial for a smooth texture in your final product.
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Combine ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture comes to a gentle boil. This will take about 5-7 minutes, so keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
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Incorporate gelatin: Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully pour in the bloomed gelatin mixture, whisking continuously until it is completely incorporated. The mixture will become slightly thicker as the gelatin dissolves.
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Add alcohol (optional): If using alcohol, gently stir it into the mixture.
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Add food coloring (optional): If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to achieve your preferred shade. Be mindful not to add too much, or the color might be overpowering.
Filling the Molds and Setting the Gummy Bears:
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Pour into molds: Carefully pour the gummy bear mixture into your prepared molds, filling each cavity almost to the top. Avoid overfilling, as this can cause spillage and an uneven gummy bear shape.
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Refrigerate: Place the molds in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or until the gummy bears are completely set and firm. This setting time ensures the alcohol is properly incorporated into the candy and the gummy bear retains its shape.
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Remove gummy bears: Once set, gently remove the gummy bears from the molds. If using silicone molds, this should be easy; just gently push from the bottom. If using harder molds, you may need to run them under warm water for a few seconds to loosen the gummies.
Tips for Perfect Boozy Gummy Bears:
- Use fresh fruit juice: Freshly squeezed juice will give your gummies a more intense flavor.
- Don't overheat: Avoid burning the sugar syrup by keeping the heat on medium and stirring constantly.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to experiment with different fruit juices, extracts, and liquors to create unique flavor combinations.
- Use a double boiler (optional): For even more control over the heat and to minimize burning, consider using a double boiler to gently melt the sugar and corn syrup.
Variations:
- Spicy Gummy Bears: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Layered Gummy Bears: Pour different colored mixtures into the molds in layers for a visually stunning effect.
- Flavored Vodkas: Experiment with flavored vodkas, like vanilla or citrus, to complement your chosen fruit juice.
Nutritional Information (per gummy bear, approximate, varies based on ingredients):
- Calories: Around 20-30 calories
- Sugar: Around 5-7 grams
These boozy gummy bears are a fantastic homemade treat perfect for adults who enjoy a bit of a sweet and spirited indulgence. They’re easy to make, highly customizable, and are sure to impress your friends and family. Remember to drink responsibly. Enjoy!