Homemade Gummy Bear Recipe

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Make your own delicious gummy bears at home with this easy recipe! Perfect for kids and adults alike, these chewy treats can be customized with your favorite flavors.

Delilah Spencer

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2025-12-19T13:35:57.597Z

This homemade gummy bear recipe is a fun and creative way to enjoy a childhood favorite. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make delicious gummy bears in any flavor you like!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Customizable flavors to suit your taste
  • Fun and engaging activity for kids
  • Healthier alternative to store-bought candy

The Joy of Making Gummy Bears at Home

Making gummy bears at home is not just a fun activity; it’s a delightful experience that brings everyone together. Whether you’re crafting these chewy treats with your kids or hosting a candy-making party, the process fosters creativity and encourages bonding. Kids love getting involved in the kitchen, and this recipe provides an excellent opportunity for them to learn about measuring, mixing, and even the science behind gelatin.

Moreover, you can tailor the gummy bears to suit your preferences. Want a burst of tropical flavor? Opt for pineapple or mango juice. Prefer something tangy? Lemon or lime juice can do the trick. The customization options are endless, allowing everyone to create their perfect gummy bear blend.

Healthier Candy Option

Store-bought gummy candies are often loaded with artificial flavors, high fructose corn syrup, and preservatives. By making your own gummy bears, you control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier treat for you and your family. Using natural fruit juice and sweeteners like honey or agave syrup gives you a guilt-free indulgence that can satisfy your sweet tooth without the excess sugar.

Additionally, these homemade gummy bears can be a fun way to sneak in some nutrients, especially if you opt for juices rich in vitamins. The gelatin itself is also a source of protein, which can be beneficial to your diet. A little creativity in flavor combinations can turn these gummies into a playful yet nutritious snack.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Homemade gummy bears are versatile treats suitable for various occasions. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, a holiday, or simply enjoying a movie night, these chewy delights can be themed to match any event. Use seasonal fruits and colors to create festive variations, or add sprinkles for a party-ready batch.

They also make fantastic party favors or additions to gift baskets. Imagine the joy on your friends’ faces when they receive a personalized bag of homemade gummy bears! Plus, the unique flavors and shapes can spark conversations and create memorable experiences.

Ingredients

Gummy Bear Ingredients

  • 1 cup fruit juice (your choice)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
  • 2 tablespoons gelatin powder
  • 1 teaspoon citric acid (optional, for sourness)
  • Silicone gummy bear mold

Make sure to use high-quality fruit juice for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the mixture

In a small saucepan, combine the fruit juice and honey. Heat over medium-low heat until warmed, but not boiling.

Add gelatin

Sprinkle the gelatin powder over the warm juice mixture and whisk until fully dissolved.

Add citric acid

If using citric acid, add it to the mixture and stir until combined.

Mold the gummy bears

Pour the mixture into the silicone gummy bear molds. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes until set.

Unmold and enjoy

Carefully remove the gummy bears from the mold and enjoy your homemade treats!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips for the Best Gummy Bears

To achieve the best texture for your gummy bears, be sure to use high-quality gelatin. Brands vary in strength, so reading the package instructions is essential. If you find your gummy bears are too soft or too firm, adjust the gelatin amount in your next batch. A little experimentation can lead to the perfect chewiness.

Also, consider adding small pieces of fruit or other flavorings to elevate your gummy bears. Chunks of real fruit can add a delightful surprise, while a splash of flavored extracts like vanilla or mint can enhance the overall taste. Just make sure not to overdo it to maintain the gummy consistency.

Storage and Shelf Life

Once your gummy bears are set and removed from the molds, it's important to store them properly to maintain freshness. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They can last for up to two weeks, but they are usually consumed much quicker because of their delicious taste!

If you want to store them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use sugar instead of honey?

Yes, you can substitute sugar for honey, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ How long do these gummy bears last?

They can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator if stored properly.

→ Can I make them vegan?

Yes, use agar-agar instead of gelatin for a vegan version.

→ What kind of fruit juice works best?

Any 100% fruit juice works well; popular choices include apple, orange, and berry juices.

Homemade Gummy Bear Recipe

Make your own delicious gummy bears at home with this easy recipe! Perfect for kids and adults alike, these chewy treats can be customized with your favorite flavors.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time20 minutes

Created by: Delilah Spencer

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 30 gummy bears

What You'll Need

Gummy Bear Ingredients

  1. 1 cup fruit juice (your choice)
  2. 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
  3. 2 tablespoons gelatin powder
  4. 1 teaspoon citric acid (optional, for sourness)
  5. Silicone gummy bear mold

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a small saucepan, combine the fruit juice and honey. Heat over medium-low heat until warmed, but not boiling.

Step 02

Sprinkle the gelatin powder over the warm juice mixture and whisk until fully dissolved.

Step 03

If using citric acid, add it to the mixture and stir until combined.

Step 04

Pour the mixture into the silicone gummy bear molds. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes until set.

Step 05

Carefully remove the gummy bears from the mold and enjoy your homemade treats!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 60 kcal
  • Total Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 5mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 12g
  • Protein: 1g