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#### Instructions:
The process of making **Pioneer Woman Gumdrops** is relatively easy, with only a few basic steps. Here is a detailed guide on how to prepare and make these delightful, chewy treats.
1. **Prepare Your Molds**:
– Start by preparing the molds or pans in which you’ll set your gumdrops. You can use a silicone candy mold for fun, shaped gumdrops or simply line a small baking dish with parchment paper if you want to make squares or cubes.
– If you are using a baking dish, lightly coat the surface with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. **Bloom the Gelatin**:
– In a small bowl, combine the **unflavored gelatin** with **1/4 cup of cold water**. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This process is called “blooming” the gelatin and it allows the gelatin to dissolve evenly in the final candy mixture.
3. **Cook the Syrup**:
– In a saucepan, combine **1 1/4 cups of sugar**, **1/2 cup of corn syrup**, and **1/2 cup of fruit juice**. Stir the ingredients over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved, and the mixture comes to a simmer.
– Add the bloomed gelatin mixture to the saucepan and stir it until the gelatin has completely dissolved into the sugar syrup. This will give the gumdrops their chewy texture.
– Add a pinch of **salt** and **vanilla extract** to the syrup for flavor.
4. **Pour into Molds**:
– Once the gelatin mixture has dissolved and the syrup is well combined, pour the mixture into your prepared molds. If you’re using a baking dish, simply pour the mixture in and use a spatula to spread it evenly.
5. **Set the Gumdrops**:
– Let the gumdrop mixture cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer the molds to the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours, or until the gumdrops have fully set. The mixture should be firm and gelatinous by the time it’s ready.
6. **Cut and Coat in Sugar**:
– Once the gumdrops have set, remove them from the molds. If you used a baking dish, turn the entire slab of gumdrops onto a cutting board and cut them into small squares or rectangles using a sharp knife.
– To finish, roll each gumdrop in granulated sugar. This gives the gumdrops their characteristic sugar coating and prevents them from sticking together.
7. **Store the Gumdrops**:
– Once coated in sugar, store your gumdrops in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for several days and are perfect for gifting, parties, or just indulging yourself.
### Tips for Success
To ensure your gumdrops turn out perfect every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
– **Use fresh juice**: The flavor of the fruit juice you choose plays a big role in the final taste of your gumdrops. Freshly squeezed juice or high-quality store-bought juice will provide the best flavor.
– **Temperature control**: Make sure to follow the setting times. If you don’t let the gumdrops cool and set completely, they may be too soft or sticky. Allow them to chill for a few hours in the refrigerator to achieve the right consistency.
– **Experiment with flavors**: While Ree Drummond’s recipe calls for fruit juice like orange or cranberry, feel free to experiment with other flavors such as apple, pineapple, or pomegranate juice. You can even create a mix of flavors for a colorful variety of gumdrops.
– **Shape options**: You don’t have to stick to traditional square or rectangular gumdrops. Use cookie cutters or silicone molds in fun shapes like stars, hearts, or holiday-themed designs to make your gumdrops even more festive.
### Creative Ways to Use Gumdrops
While **Pioneer Woman Gumdrops** are perfect on their own as a treat, there are many other creative ways to use them:
#### 1. **Decorate Holiday Desserts**:
Gumdrops are often used to decorate gingerbread houses, cakes, or cookies, adding color and texture to these festive treats. Simply chop them into smaller pieces and use them as a topping.
#### 2. **Add to Trail Mix**:
For a fun twist on traditional trail mix, toss some homemade gumdrops into the mix along with nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate chips.
#### 3. **Gumdrop Cookies**:
Crush gumdrops into smaller pieces and fold them into your cookie dough for a chewy, fruity addition to your favorite cookie recipe.
#### 4. **Gift Them**:
Homemade gumdrops make a thoughtful gift. Package them in decorative jars or boxes for a sweet, personalized present that anyone would appreciate.
### Conclusion
The **Pioneer Woman Gumdrop Recipe** is a delightful and fun twist on a traditional candy that’s perfect for all ages. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe offers a chance to create a nostalgic treat that’s bursting with flavor and color. Whether enjoyed as a standalone treat or incorporated into other holiday desserts, these homemade gumdrops are sure to be a hit with friends and family.
Ree Drummond’s gumdrop recipe is more than just a candy—it’s a sweet tradition that brings joy and creativity into the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy
the process of making these chewy, sugar-coated confections that will bring a smile to your face and a little extra sweetness to your day.
