These homemade fruit juice gummies are soft, chewy little bites bursting with real fruit flavor. You can customize them with your favorite juices, colors, and even add a little tartness for that classic gummy candy zing. They’re fun to make with kids, perfect for lunchboxes, or just a lighter sweet treat when you’re craving candy. Use simple molds for fun shapes, or pour into a pan and cut them into cubes or strips. Once chilled, they’re easy to pop out and enjoy all week long.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups fruit juice (avoid pineapple, kiwi, and papaya)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup gelatin powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or honey to taste)
- Food coloring (optional)
- 1 teaspoon citric acid (optional, for tartness)
- Additional granulated sugar for coating (optional)
Directions
- Lightly grease your gummy molds or a shallow pan with neutral oil or non-stick spray and set aside.
- In a small saucepan, combine the fruit juice and water, then sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the top and let it sit for a few minutes to bloom until thickened.
- Place the pan over medium-low heat and stir constantly until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth; do not let it boil.
- Add the sugar and stir until fully dissolved; if using honey instead, remove the pan from the heat first, then stir in the honey.
- Stir in food coloring and citric acid if using; you can divide the mixture into separate bowls and color or flavor each one differently.
- Carefully pour or use a dropper to transfer the mixture into the prepared molds or pan.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the gummies are fully set and firm.
- If using a pan, cut the set gummies into desired shapes; if you like, roll the pieces in granulated sugar or a sugar–citric acid mix for a sweet or sour coating.
- Store the gummies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 150 minutes
Kcal: 80 kcal | Servings: 8
Tips
If your mixture feels too soft or loose before chilling, you can sprinkle in a little extra gelatin and warm gently again to dissolve it, which helps the gummies set firmer and chewier.
For best texture and freshness, keep the gummies chilled in a single layer or with parchment between layers; they’re great for prepping ahead and using as a fun, colorful treat in lunchboxes or snack trays.
