Jello Candy Melts: Sweet Treats Made Easy Recipe
Jello Candy Melts are colorful, sweet, and easy-to-make treats that combine flavored gelatin and sugar to create delightful homemade candies. Perfect for parties or a fun kitchen project, these melt-in-your-mouth candies can be customized with your favorite Jello flavors and decorated with sprinkles for an extra festive touch.
- Author: Rita
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 small candy pieces 1x
- Category: Candy
- Method: Boiling, Setting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Candy Melts:
- 1 package (3 oz) flavored Jello gelatin (any flavor)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup water
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon citric acid (optional, for a tangy flavor)
For Coating and Decoration:
- Powdered sugar or cornstarch (for dusting)
- Sprinkles (optional)
- Prepare the Molds: Lightly grease silicone candy molds or line a baking sheet with parchment paper if you plan to cut the candy into pieces later. This helps ensure the candy doesn’t stick when setting.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the flavored Jello, granulated sugar, water, and light corn syrup. Stir over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved to create a smooth mixture.
- Boil the Mixture: Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Insert a candy thermometer and continue boiling without stirring until the temperature reaches 250°F (121°C), the hard-ball stage, which guarantees the proper candy texture.
- Add Citric Acid (Optional): If you prefer a tangy flavor, carefully stir in the citric acid once the mixture reaches the desired temperature, blending it well.
- Pour into Molds: Pour the hot candy mixture carefully into the prepared silicone molds or spread it evenly over the lined baking sheet to your desired thickness for cutting later.
- Cool and Set: Let the candy cool completely at room temperature until firm and fully set. This can take about 1 to 2 hours depending on the thickness of the candy.
- Remove and Dust: Remove the candy from molds or cut the set candy on the baking sheet into shapes. Lightly dust the pieces with powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent sticking.
- Decorate (Optional): Before the candy fully sets, decorate with sprinkles by gently pressing them into the surface to add a fun, colorful finish.
- Serve: Store your Jello Candy Melts in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness, and enjoy these sweet, easy homemade treats!
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure accuracy when boiling sugar to the right stage.
- If using a baking sheet, spread the mixture evenly to make cutting easier.
- Citric acid is optional but adds a pleasant tartness that balances the sweetness.
- Make sure molds or surfaces are well-greased to avoid sticking.
- Store candies in a cool, dry place to prevent them from becoming sticky or melting.
- Experiment with different Jello flavors for variety and color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pieces (approx. 30g)
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Jello candy melts, homemade candy, gelatin sweets, easy candy recipe, colorful candy, party treats, sugar candy