Homemade Gummy Bears Recipe
Want chewy, fruity candy without junk? This Homemade Gummy Bears Recipe uses 4 simple ingredients. Kids go wild for them! Healthier than store-bought.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup fruit juice grape, berry, or pomegranate—no pineapple!
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 4 tablespoons unflavored gelatin powder
- 1/4 cup cold water
Instructions
Bloom the Gelatin
- Sprinkle gelatin powder over cold water in small bowl. Let sit 5 minutes. It absorbs water and thickens. Don't stir yet. Magic starts here.
Heat the Juice Base
- Pour fruit juice and honey into saucepan. Warm over low-medium heat. Stir until honey dissolves. Just before simmer. Hot but not boiling.
Dissolve the Gelatin
- Add bloomed gelatin to warm juice. Whisk vigorously 1-2 minutes. Gelatin melts completely. No lumps! Smooth liquid ready for molding.
Fill the Gummy Molds
- Place silicone molds on baking sheet. Use dropper or squeeze bottle. Fill each bear cavity carefully. Overfill slightly—they shrink.
Chill to Set
- Carry baking sheet to fridge. Chill 2 hours minimum. Bears firm up beautifully. Patience creates perfect chew texture.
Unmold and Enjoy
- Pop bears from molds gently. Roll in sugar if desired. Store in airtight container. Ready for snacking heaven!
Notes
- No pineapple/kiwi juice—enzymes prevent setting.
- Grass-fed gelatin best for gut health.
- Warm juice gently—boiling kills gelatin.
- Variation: Jello mix for color/flavor bursts.
- Vegan: Agar powder instead of gelatin.
- Adult version: Add 1 tsp vodka or wine.
- Bigger gummies: Use ice cube trays.