Homemade Gummy Bear Recipe

Name: Homemade Gummy Bear Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 30 gummy bears
Ingredients: 1 cup fruit juice (any flavor); 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup; 2 tablespoons gelatin powder; 1 teaspoon citric acid (optional, for sourness); Food coloring (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Make your own delicious gummy bears at home with this easy recipe. Perfect for kids and adults alike!

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2025-12-18T16:00:44.436Z

These homemade gummy bears are not just a treat; they are a fun project for the whole family. Using natural fruit juices and gelatin, you can create colorful, chewy candies that are healthier than store-bought versions. Customize them with your favorite flavors and colors!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Customizable flavors to suit your taste
Made with natural ingredients for a healthier treat
A fun activity to do with kids
Perfect for parties or as a sweet snack

      

The Joy of Homemade Treats

There's something truly special about creating your own treats at home. Making gummy bears is not only a fun culinary project but also a way to control the ingredients, ensuring that you know exactly what's going into your snacks. By using natural fruit juices and sweeteners, you can craft a delicious treat that aligns with your dietary preferences and health goals. Plus, the satisfaction of crafting these colorful candies from scratch is unmatched!

This gummy bear recipe provides a fantastic opportunity for creativity. Experimenting with different fruit juices allows you to explore a wide range of flavors, from classic grape and orange to unique combinations like mango-pineapple or tart cherry. You can also adjust the sweetness to suit your palate, making it a versatile recipe that can cater to any taste preference!

A Fun Family Activity

Making gummy bears is an engaging activity for the whole family. Kids will love pouring the juice, mixing the ingredients, and watching the transformation as the mixture sets into cute bear shapes. Involving children in the kitchen fosters their creativity and builds their cooking skills, all while having a great time together. This hands-on experience not only creates lasting memories but also teaches valuable lessons about food preparation and nutrition.

You can turn this gummy bear-making session into an educational opportunity by discussing the different fruits used, their health benefits, and the science behind gelatin. It’s a delightful way to combine learning and fun, making it an excellent choice for a rainy day or a weekend project. Plus, you’ll have a tasty reward at the end!

Perfect for Any Occasion

These homemade gummy bears are not just for kids; they are a delightful treat for adults as well! Whether you are hosting a birthday party, a movie night, or simply want a sweet snack, gummy bears can be a hit among guests of all ages. Their vibrant colors and fruity flavors can brighten up any gathering and make for an appealing addition to party favors or dessert tables.

Additionally, gummy bears can be customized for special occasions. For Halloween, you might want to add a touch of spooky food coloring, while for holidays, festive flavors and shapes can be incorporated. The possibilities are endless, making homemade gummy bears a versatile treat that can be enjoyed year-round!

Ingredients

Gummy Bear Ingredients

1 cup fruit juice (any flavor)
2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
2 tablespoons gelatin powder
1 teaspoon citric acid (optional, for sourness)
Food coloring (optional)

Make sure to choose your favorite fruit juice for a delicious flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a saucepan, combine the fruit juice and honey. Heat gently over medium heat until warm but not boiling.

Add Gelatin

Sprinkle the gelatin over the warm juice mixture, whisking continuously until fully dissolved. If using, add food coloring and citric acid at this stage for extra flavor.

Mold the Bears

Pour the mixture into gummy bear molds, filling each cavity. Tap the molds gently to remove any air bubbles.

Chill and Set

Refrigerate the molds for about 10-15 minutes or until the gummy bears are firm to the touch.

Unmold and Enjoy

Carefully remove the gummy bears from the molds and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Enjoy your homemade gummy bears as a delightful snack!

Storage Tips

Once your gummy bears are ready and fully set, it's important to store them properly to maintain their delightful texture and flavor. Place the gummy bears in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you're planning to enjoy them later, it's best to refrigerate them, as this will help preserve their chewiness and prevent any stickiness that might occur at room temperature.

Make sure to separate layers of gummy bears with parchment paper to avoid them sticking together. If you find that they start to become a bit sticky, a light dusting of cornstarch can help keep them from clumping. Homemade gummy bears can last for about a week in the fridge, making them a perfect treat to have on hand!

Customization Ideas

One of the best parts about making gummy bears at home is the endless customization options. You can experiment with an array of fruit juices, from sweet apple and peach to tangy cranberry or pomegranate. Mixing different juices can create unique flavors that set your gummy bears apart from store-bought versions. Don't hesitate to get creative with combinations!

For an added twist, consider incorporating flavor extracts such as vanilla or almond to enhance the taste. You can also adjust the amount of sweetener based on your preference for sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a bit of spice, like a pinch of cinnamon or ginger, to give your gummy bears an unexpected kick!

Healthier Alternatives

If you're looking for a healthier alternative to traditional gummy candies, this homemade gummy bear recipe is the way to go. By using natural fruit juices and sweeteners like honey or agave syrup, you can significantly reduce the amount of refined sugars and artificial ingredients typically found in store-bought gummies. This makes them a guilt-free snack option that you can feel good about sharing with family and friends.

Moreover, you can boost the nutritional profile of your gummy bears by using superfood juices like beet or carrot, which are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. This way, you can enjoy a fun treat while also benefiting from the nutritious properties of the ingredients used. It's a win-win for both your taste buds and your health!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of juice?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different fruit juices like apple, grape, or berry.

→ How long do these gummy bears last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they can last up to two weeks.

→ Is there a vegan alternative to gelatin?

Yes, you can use agar-agar as a plant-based substitute for gelatin.

→ Can I make sour gummy bears?

Absolutely! Just add citric acid to the mixture for that tangy flavor.