When it comes to festive treats that delight both kids and adults alike, Star Spangled Gumdrops are a winning choice. With their vibrant colors and chewy texture, these delightful confections are perfect for summer celebrations, picnics, or any gathering where fun is on the menu. They’re easy to make, and the best part is that you can customize them to fit your taste. Let’s dive into the world of Star Spangled Gumdrops and discover how to bring a splash of color and flavor to your next event!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

What makes Star Spangled Gumdrops a hit at any gathering? For starters, they are visually stunning with their patriotic red, white, and blue hues, making them a perfect addition to Fourth of July celebrations, Memorial Day picnics, or any occasion that calls for a bit of fun and festivity. Not only do they look great on a dessert table, but they also offer a delightful burst of flavor in every chewy bite. Plus, they are a great conversation starter and can be made in various flavors to cater to all tastes.

What Goes In

Creating Star Spangled Gumdrops requires just a few simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup granulated sugar, divided – This will sweeten the gumdrops and give them that classic sugary finish.
1 cup applesauce – I used natural, no sugar added applesauce for a healthier touch.
3 ounces JELLO – One package each of Cherry and Berry Blue to achieve that festive red and blue color.
1 envelope unflavored gelatin – Knox brand works best for the texture.
1 teaspoon lemon juice – I used bottled lemon juice for convenience; it adds a nice zing to balance the sweetness.

What’s in the Gear List

Before you start whipping up your Star Spangled Gumdrops, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Mixing bowl – A large bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients.
Whisk – To blend everything smoothly without lumps.
9×9 inch baking dish – This is where your gumdrops will set and take shape.
Sharp knife or pizza cutter – For cutting the set gumdrops into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking spray or parchment paper – To prevent sticking in the baking dish.

Build Star Spangled Gumdrops Step by Step

Creating your Star Spangled Gumdrops is a simple process. Follow these steps to ensure they turn out perfectly:

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Spray your 9×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This will help the gumdrops release easily once they’re set.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar, the JELLO packets, and the unflavored gelatin. Whisk together until well blended.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the applesauce and lemon juice. Gradually pour this mixture into the dry ingredients while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Heat the Mixture

Transfer the mixture to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Pour into the Dish

Once the mixture has thickened, pour it into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the gumdrops to set for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.

Step 7: Cut and Coat

Once set, remove the gumdrops from the dish. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice them into small squares. Roll the pieces in the remaining granulated sugar to coat them for that classic gumdrop finish.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Your Star Spangled Gumdrops are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them at your next gathering or gift them in cute bags to friends and family.

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

If you or someone you know has dietary restrictions, here are some easy swaps to make Star Spangled Gumdrops more allergy-friendly:

Applesauce – Substitute with pureed fruit like pear or bananas for a different flavor.
JELLO – Use plant-based gelatin or agar-agar for a vegetarian option.
Sugar – Opt for coconut sugar or a sugar substitute to reduce the glycemic index.
Lemon Juice – If citrus is a concern, you can skip it or use a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.

Mistakes That Ruin Star Spangled Gumdrops

Creating perfect Star Spangled Gumdrops is easy, but there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

Not Mixing Well – Inadequate mixing can lead to lumps in your gumdrops, so whisk thoroughly.
Overheating the Mixture – If you heat the mixture too long, it can become too thick and difficult to pour.
Skipping the Sugar Coating – Rolling the gumdrops in sugar not only adds sweetness but also prevents them from sticking together.
Not Allowing Enough Time to Set – Rushing the chilling process can result in a gummy texture instead of the desired chewiness.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

If you have leftover Star Spangled Gumdrops, here’s how to store them:

Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Freeze – For longer storage, you can freeze the gumdrops in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Reheat – There’s no need to reheat. Enjoy them straight from the fridge or freezer!

Quick Questions

Can I use different flavors of JELLO?

Absolutely! You can mix and match flavors to create your favorite combinations for your Star Spangled Gumdrops.

How long do these gumdrops last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Star Spangled Gumdrops can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator.

Can I make these gumdrops vegan?

Yes! By substituting the unflavored gelatin with agar-agar, you can easily make vegan Star Spangled Gumdrops.

What can I do with extra applesauce?

Extra applesauce can be used in baking, added to smoothies, or enjoyed as a healthy snack on its own!

Before You Go

It’s time to roll up your sleeves and start making these delightful Star Spangled Gumdrops. They’re not only a treat for the taste buds but also a joy to share with loved ones during celebrations. With their fun colors and irresistible chewiness, these gumdrops are sure to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to impress your guests with this festive and fun treat!

Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, a holiday gathering, or just want to indulge in a sweet snack, Star Spangled Gumdrops are the perfect choice. Happy cooking!