Homemade Sour Patch kids

Homemade Sour Patch kids are a delightful treat that brings the fun of sour, chewy candies right into your kitchen. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a sweet snack, these candies are not only delicious but also customizable to your favorite fruit flavors. With a zesty coating and a chewy texture, they are sure to impress. Plus, making them at home means you can avoid artificial ingredients and control the flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Tangy: The combination of fresh fruit juice and citric acid creates a mouth-popping sweetness with an exciting sour kick.
• Customizable Flavors: You can experiment with different fruit juices to create your own unique candy flavors.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up these delicious treats.
• Fun for All Ages: Making these candies can be a fun activity for kids and adults alike; everyone can join in on the fun!
• Perfect for Gifting: Package them in cute jars to give as gifts or party favors that friends and family will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather all the necessary tools to ensure a smooth candy-making experience. Having everything ready will make the process more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Candy molds
• Small saucepan
• Syringe or squeeze bottle
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Candy molds: These allow you to create fun shapes and sizes for your homemade candies.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for heating ingredients without burning them, ensuring even cooking.
• Syringe or squeeze bottle: Perfect for filling molds neatly without any mess.

Ingredients

To make your Homemade Sour Patch kids, gather the following ingredients:

For the Sour Coating

• 1/2 Cup of Granulated Sugar
• 1 TBSP of Citric Acid

For the Candy Base

• 4 Tbsp of Fresh squeezed Lemon Or Lime Juice
• 3 Tbsp of Pectin
• 5 Tbsp of Granulated Sugar
• 2 Tbsp of Water + 1 Tbsp of Unflavored Gelatin
• 1/8 Tsp of Salt
• 4 Tbsp of fresh fruit juice
• 3 Tbsp of Pectin
• 3 Tbsp of Granulated Sugar
• 1 TBSP of Water
• 2 Tbsp of cold water + 1 TBSP of Unflavored Gelatin

How to Make Homemade Sour Patch kids

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

In a small bowl, combine the unflavored gelatin powder with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir well and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it blooms.

Step 2: Prepare Fruit Mixture

In a small saucepan over medium-low heat:
1. Add the fresh fruit juice and granulated sugar.
2. Stir occasionally until the mixture begins to simmer.

Step 3: Combine Pectin

Once at a simmer:
1. Add in the pectin while stirring continuously.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Add Bloomed Gelatin

When boiling gently:
1. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
2. Cook until thickened, then turn off the heat.

Step 5: Fill Molds

Using a syringe or squeeze bottle:
1. Carefully fill your candy molds with the gelatin mixture.

Step 6: Set in Fridge

Place filled molds in the fridge:
– Let them set for about 2-3 hours.

Step 7: Dehydrate Candies

After setting:
1. Remove candies from molds.
2. Leave them uncovered in the fridge overnight to dehydrate for a firmer chew.

Step 8: Coat with Sour Mixture

In a small bowl:
1. Mix together 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of citric acid.
2. Toss your candies in this mixture until well coated, shaking off any excess.

These delightful Homemade Sour Patch kids are ready to enjoy! Store them uncovered in the fridge for optimal texture.

How to Serve Homemade Sour Patch kids

Homemade Sour Patch kids are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance your snacking experience or share them with friends and family.

As Party Favors

• Create small bags filled with your Homemade Sour Patch kids for guests to take home. This adds a personal touch to any celebration.

With Movie Night

• Pair these chewy candies with popcorn for a fun movie night treat. The sweet and sour contrast will keep everyone entertained!

On Dessert Platters

• Include your Homemade Sour Patch kids on dessert platters alongside other sweets. They add a vibrant color and unique flavor that complements cookies and brownies.

As Gifts

• Package the candies in decorative jars or boxes as gifts for birthdays or holidays. Handmade gifts are always appreciated!

In Snack Mixes

• Toss your Homemade Sour Patch kids into a mix of nuts, pretzels, and chocolate pieces for an exciting snack blend. The sourness balances the richness of chocolate.

How to Perfect Homemade Sour Patch kids

To achieve the best results with your Homemade Sour Patch kids, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh fruit juice: Freshly squeezed juice enhances flavor compared to bottled alternatives. It makes your candies taste vibrant and natural.

• Mind the temperature: Cook the mixture at medium-low heat to prevent burning while allowing proper thickening. This ensures a smooth texture.

• Allow time to set: Be patient after pouring into molds; letting them set in the fridge overnight helps improve texture and firmness.

• Experiment with flavors: Try different fruit juices like strawberry or raspberry for unique tastes. Mixing flavors can make your candies even more exciting!

• Store properly: Keep your candies uncovered in the fridge to maintain their chewiness. Covering them may lead to sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Sour Patch kids

If you’re looking to complement your Homemade Sour Patch kids, here are some delightful side dishes that pair well with their sweet and tangy flavors.

1. Popcorn: Lightly salted popcorn offers a crunchy contrast to the chewy candy.
2. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: Sweet and salty pretzels work well together, creating a fun snacking experience.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits will balance out the sweetness of the candies.
4. Cheese Platter: Add some mild cheeses like brie or gouda for an elegant touch that contrasts nicely with the candy’s sourness.
5. Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Crisp veggies provide crunch while hummus adds creaminess—perfect for balancing sweetness!
6. Mini Cupcakes: Sweet cupcakes topped with frosting can create a delightful dessert spread alongside your candies.
7. Trail Mix: Combine nuts, seeds, and dried fruits for a healthy yet satisfying side that complements the sour flavors.
8. Smoothies: A fruity smoothie can refresh your palate while enjoying these delightful candies!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Homemade Sour Patch kids, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure your candy turns out perfectly.

• Ignoring the Blooming Process: Failing to properly bloom the gelatin can lead to a gummy texture. Always allow it to sit for the recommended time before using.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Candy making requires precision. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you get the right proportions for a successful outcome.
• Skipping the Dehydration Step: Removing the candies from molds too early can yield a sticky texture. Allow them to set uncovered in the fridge overnight for best results.
• Using Too Much Heat: Cooking the mixture at too high a temperature can cause it to burn or become overly thick. Stick to low to medium heat, stirring gently.
• Neglecting Flavor Variations: Some may stick to one flavor, but experimenting with different fruit juices can enhance your Homemade Sour Patch kids experience. Don’t hesitate to mix things up!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Homemade Sour Patch kids in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Homemade Sour Patch kids

• Place candies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are completely cool before freezing.

Reheating Homemade Sour Patch kids

• Oven: Preheat to a low temperature and place candies on a baking sheet for a few minutes if they become hard.
• Microwave: Use short bursts of heat, about 5-10 seconds, until soft, but do not overheat as they may melt.
• Stovetop: Place candies in a non-stick pan over low heat, stirring gently until slightly softened.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Homemade Sour Patch kids.

Can I use other types of juice?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with various fruit juices like orange, grape, or berry blends for unique flavors.

How do I make my candies more sour?

To increase sourness, simply add more citric acid into your sugar coating mixture before tossing the candies.

What is the best way to store these candies?

Keep your Homemade Sour Patch kids in an airtight container in the refrigerator for optimal freshness and texture.

How long does it take for them to set?

After pouring into molds, they typically need about 2-3 hours in the fridge followed by overnight dehydration for best texture.

Final Thoughts

Making Homemade Sour Patch kids is not only fun but also allows you to customize flavors and textures according to your preference. Enjoy experimenting with different fruit juices and share these delightful treats with family and friends!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Homemade Sour Patch kids

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 20 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful world of homemade candy with this easy recipe for Homemade Sour Patch kids. Bursting with vibrant fruit flavors and a tangy coating, these chewy treats are perfect for parties, movie nights, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Unlike store-bought versions, you can control the ingredients, ensuring they are free from artificial additives. The customizable nature of this recipe allows you to experiment with your favorite fruit juices, making every batch unique. Easy to make and fun for all ages, these candies will impress family and friends alike. Get ready to enjoy a chewy, zesty snack that’s both delicious and satisfying!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 Tbsp of Fresh squeezed Lemon Or Lime Juice
• 3 Tbsp of Pectin
• 5 Tbsp of Granulated Sugar
• 2 Tbsp of Water + 1 Tbsp of Unflavored vegan gelatin
• 1/8 Tsp of Salt
• 4 Tbsp of fresh fruit juice
• 3 Tbsp of Pectin
• 3 Tbsp of Granulated Sugar
• 1 TBSP of Water
• 2 Tbsp of cold water + 1 TBSP of Unflavored vegan gelatin
• 1/2 Cup of Granulated Sugar
• 1 TBSP of Citric Acid

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Instructions

1. Bloom the vegan gelatin by mixing it with 2 tablespoons of water and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine fresh fruit juice and granulated sugar until simmering.
3. Stir in pectin and bring to a gentle boil.
4. Add the bloomed vegan gelatin and stir until fully dissolved; cook until thickened.
5. Fill candy molds with the mixture using a syringe or squeeze bottle.
6. Refrigerate molds for 2-3 hours until set; then dehydrate overnight uncovered in the fridge.
7. Toss the candies in a mixture of granulated sugar and citric acid.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Candy Making
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5 pieces
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg