Chef Mitchell preparing Festive Candy Cane Gummies
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the joy of making gummies during a holiday baking session with my family. Experimenting with different flavors led me to perfect this festive candy cane version. It quickly became a holiday staple, bringing smiles and deliciousness to our gatherings. I love sharing this recipe as it captures the essence of the season."

As a chef with over a decade of experience in American cuisine, I specialize in creating delightful dessert recipes. My passion lies in blending traditional flavors with modern techniques to create memorable treats. I've crafted over a thousand recipes, focusing on seasonal and festive delights.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Festive Candy Cane Gummies served on a plate

Why This Festive Candy Cane Gummies Recipe Works

This recipe combines simple ingredients and easy techniques to create homemade gummies that are as fun to make as they are to eat. The balance of flavors from peppermint and vanilla captures the essence of the holiday season, making each gummy a delightful treat.

Using gelatin allows for a perfect chewy texture, while the vibrant colors elevate the festive appeal. The addition of crushed candy canes adds a crunchy contrast, making every bite even more enjoyable.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, ensure that your gelatin is fully bloomed before melting it into the mixture. This will help achieve the right texture for your gummies. Also, let them cool completely in the fridge to set properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can make these gummies several days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They taste even better after a day or two as the flavors meld beautifully.

If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, you can use agar-agar instead of gelatin. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, so be sure to follow the instructions for blooming and setting.

The gummies are ready when they have set completely and feel firm to the touch. They should not be sticky and should easily release from the molds. This usually takes about 4 hours in the refrigerator.

Freezing gummies is not recommended as it can change their texture. They are best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a couple of weeks. If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator instead.

These gummies are perfect on their own, but you can serve them alongside hot cocoa or holiday cookies for a delightful dessert platter. They also make great gifts when packaged in festive boxes.

When stored in an airtight container, these gummies can last for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep them away from moisture to maintain their chewy texture.

Absolutely! These gummies can be made days in advance, making them a great option for holiday prep. Just ensure they are stored properly to maintain freshness before serving.

Gummies should not be reheated as it alters their texture. Instead, enjoy them at room temperature. If they feel too firm, let them sit out for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your gummies turn out too dry, it may be due to overcooking the mixture.

Solution: To avoid this, ensure you do not heat the mixture too long after the gelatin is added. A gentle heat is key to maintaining moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the exterior of your gummies isn't crispy, it may be due to excess moisture during storage.

Solution: Dust them lightly with more powdered sugar and cornstarch before storing to help absorb any moisture.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Gummies can become tough if overcooked during the heating process.

Prevention: Monitor the heat carefully and remove from the stove as soon as the mixture is clear and all ingredients are dissolved.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the gummies is still gooey, they may not have set long enough.

Recovery: Simply return the gummies to the fridge for an additional hour to fully set. Ensure they are in a single layer as they cool.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the gummies have a burnt taste, it could be from overheating the sugar mixture.

Prevention: Always monitor the heat and stir continuously to prevent sticking or burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the gummies are too sweet, consider adding a touch more lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: For an overly salty taste, reduce the amount of salt next time or omit it altogether.

Bland: If the flavor is bland, increase the amount of peppermint and vanilla extracts to enhance the taste profile.

Fresh ingredients for Festive Candy Cane Gummies

Essential Ingredients for Festive Candy Cane Gummies

The key ingredients for these gummies include gelatin, sugar, and flavorings. Gelatin gives them their characteristic chewy texture, while sugar provides sweetness. The peppermint and vanilla extracts are crucial for achieving that festive flavor.

Using high-quality extracts and fresh ingredients will ensure the best flavor. Don't skimp on the candy canes for decoration; they add not only flavor but a beautiful presentation.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Gelatin Powder: Choose a high-quality gelatin powder for the best texture in your gummies. Ensure it's unflavored, as flavored varieties may alter the taste.
  • Peppermint Extract: Use pure peppermint extract for a strong and authentic flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, start with less and adjust according to your preference.
  • Candy Canes: Opt for fresh, high-quality candy canes for the best crunch and flavor. Crush them just before using to maintain their freshness.
Cooking process for Festive Candy Cane Gummies

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Creating these gummies involves simple steps that anyone can follow. The key is to bloom the gelatin properly and ensure the sugar mixture is heated just right to dissolve completely without burning.

Patience is essential when allowing the gummies to set. A well-chilled mixture will yield the perfect texture, so don't rush the refrigeration time.

Key Technique for Perfect Festive Candy Cane Gummies

The most important technique in this recipe is ensuring the gelatin is fully dissolved before pouring into molds. This guarantees that the gummies have a smooth, consistent texture without any lumps.

Festive Candy Cane Gummies

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup sugar
    Granulated
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
    Unsweetened
  • 1/4 cup milk
    Whole milk preferred
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    Pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups water
    For gelatin mixture
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
    For sweetness
  • 3 tablespoons gelatin powder
    For structure
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
    For holiday taste
  • Red food coloring
    For coloring
  • Green food coloring
    For coloring
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
    For dusting
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
    For dusting
  • Candy cane pieces for decoration
    For garnish
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    For acidity
  • 1/2 cup glucose syrup
    For consistency
  • Pinch of salt
    To enhance flavor

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Gelatin

    In a bowl, mix the gelatin powder with 2 cups of cold water and let it sit for 10 minutes to bloom.

  2. Heat the Mixture

    In a saucepan, combine sugar, glucose syrup, and lemon juice. Heat over medium until sugar dissolves.

  3. Combine Ingredients

    Add the bloomed gelatin to the saucepan and stir until fully dissolved.

  4. Add Flavorings

    Remove from heat, then add vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.

  5. Color the Mixture

    Divide the mixture into two bowls. Color one with red food coloring and the other with green.

  6. Pour into Molds

    Grease candy molds lightly and pour the red mixture into half the molds, then the green mixture into the other half.

  7. Chill and Set

    Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until gummies are completely set.

  8. Dust and Unmold

    Mix powdered sugar and cornstarch. Dust the gummies with this mixture, then carefully unmold them.

  9. Decorate

    Garnish with crushed candy cane pieces for a festive touch.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store gummies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. They should maintain their texture and flavor for up to two weeks. Keep them away from moisture to prevent stickiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these festive gummies on a holiday dessert table, or package them in decorative bags as party favors. They pair wonderfully with hot chocolate or coffee.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different flavor extracts, such as almond or chocolate. You can also add a splash of citrus juice for a fresh twist, or use different colors to suit other holidays.