Here's a simple step-by-step recipe to make homemade gummy bears:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) fruit juice (choose your favorite: apple, orange, mixed berry, etc.)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) honey or agave syrup (adjust for sweetness)
  • 3 tablespoons (21 g) unflavored gelatin powder
  • Optional: Food coloring and flavor extracts for enhanced color and flavor

Equipment:

  • Silicone gummy bear molds
  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Dropper or spoon for filling molds

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Molds:

    • Place your silicone gummy bear molds on a flat surface or a baking sheet to make it easy to transfer to the fridge later.
  2. Combine the Ingredients:

    • Pour 1 cup of fruit juice into a small saucepan.
    • Add 2 tablespoons of honey (or sweetener of choice) to the juice.
    • Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin over the juice mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the gelatin to bloom (absorb liquid).
  3. Heat the Mixture:

    • Set the saucepan over medium-low heat and stir continuously with a whisk.
    • Heat until the gelatin dissolves completely and the mixture is smooth, but do not let it come to a boil (this can affect the texture).
    • If desired, add a few drops of food coloring or flavor extracts to enhance the look and taste.
  4. Fill the Molds:

    • Once the mixture is smooth and lump-free, remove it from heat.
    • Use a dropper or spoon to carefully fill each cavity in the gummy bear molds. Work quickly as the mixture can start to set.
  5. Refrigerate:

    • Transfer the filled molds to the refrigerator and let them set for at least 1-2 hours, or until firm.
  6. Remove the Gummy Bears:

    • Once set, gently pop the gummy bears out of the molds.
  7. Store and Enjoy:

    • Store the gummy bears in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 1-2 weeks.

Tips:

  • If you want a vegan version, substitute gelatin with agar-agar powder. Keep in mind, agar-agar sets differently, so adjust quantities as needed (start with 1 to 1.5 tablespoons).
  • Adjust the sweetness by tasting the mixture before it sets and adding more honey if needed.

Enjoy your homemade gummy bears!