Homemade Lemon Gum Drops
Gum Drop Recipe - Candy Recipe

In a large heavy saucepan over medium-low heat, add the orange juice, fruit pectin, and baking soda.

Bring just to a boil (the mixture will foam up vigorously), then reduce heat to low (do not let the mixture boil again), and keep on the low heat.

 

In a medium-size saucepan over medium-high heat, combine sugar and corn syrup, stirring constantly, and bring to a boil. Once the mixture comes to a boil, stop stirring, and let it boil until it reaches 280 degrees F. (soft-crack stake) on your candy or cooking thermometer.

This is the type of cooking thermometer that I prefer and use in my cooking. I get many readers asking what cooking thermometer that I prefer and use in my cooking and baking. I, personally, use the Thermapen Thermometer shown in the photo on the right. Originally designed for professional users, the Super-Fast Thermapen Thermometer is used by chefs all over the world.

If you don't have a cooking thermometer, you can test the candy by dropping a small amount of the candy mixture into cold water. The candy is ready when it separates into hard threads that are not brittle.
 

Carefully and slowly pour the hot sugar/corn syrup mixture into the the hot juice mixture, stirring constantly (this will take a couple of minutes). When the two mixtures are combined, remove from heat and add the food colorings (if using). Let the mixture stand for 2 minutes, then skim off any foam (if there is any) from the surface. Pour the candy mixture into the prepared pan.
 

Let sit at room temperature, uncovered, for at least 12 hours or overnight.

Lift aluminum foil from the pan and remove foil from the sides. Cut the gumdrops into 3/4-inch squares with a knife dipped into sugar. Roll gumdrop squares in sugar. NOTE: They will be sticky. I ended up having to roll them in my hands and then in the sugar.

Let stand uncovered at room temperature for 1 hour. If desired, roll in additional sugar. NOTE: As they still were a little sticky, I placed them in the refrigerator.

Store gumdrops in an airtight container.

Makes about 50 gumdrops.
 

Variation Ideas: