Description
These Candy Cane Fireball Gummies are a festive and fun treat that combines the fiery kick of Fireball whiskey with the cool, refreshing taste of peppermint. Perfect for holiday parties or a unique homemade gift, these gummies are surprisingly easy to make and offer a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and minty flavors. The optional candy cane garnish adds a beautiful, seasonal touch.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Fireball whiskey
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Red and white food coloring (optional)
- Candy cane pieces for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Heat: In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar over low heat.
Step 2: Dissolve Sugar: Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar dissolves completely. Ensure there are no sugar granules left.
Step 3: Bloom the Gelatin: Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin evenly over the warm mixture.
Step 4: Dissolve Gelatin: Whisk the gelatin into the mixture until it is fully dissolved. This step is crucial to avoid grainy gummies, so ensure the gelatin is completely incorporated.
Step 5: Flavor: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the Fireball whiskey and peppermint extract. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
Step 6: Color (Optional): If desired, divide the mixture into two separate bowls. Add red food coloring to one bowl and leave the other as is for a candy cane swirl effect.
Step 7: Prepare Molds: Lightly grease silicone molds (candy cane shapes are ideal!) or a small baking dish with cooking spray or a neutral oil.
Step 8: Pour: Pour the mixture into the prepared molds or baking dish. If using both red and white mixtures, alternate pouring colors to create a visually appealing swirl.
Step 9: Chill: Refrigerate the molds or baking dish for at least 2-3 hours, or until the gummies are firm and set.
Step 10: Serve: Once firm, pop the gummies out of the silicone molds. If using a baking dish, cut the gummies into small squares. Sprinkle crushed candy cane pieces on top of the gummies for a festive finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These gummies are a delightful twist on traditional holiday treats. They offer a unique combination of flavors that’s both exciting and comforting. They’re also incredibly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and can be customized with different colors and garnishes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a festive treat at holiday parties.
- Package in small bags as homemade gifts.
- Pair with other holiday desserts for a varied dessert platter.
- Garnish with extra crushed candy canes or edible glitter for added flair.
Tips
- Use high-quality gelatin for the best texture.
- Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved to avoid grainy gummies.
- Lightly grease the molds for easy removal.
- Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to suit your taste.
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace Fireball with cinnamon-flavored syrup.
- Store the gummies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and flavor.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 5 minutes Total Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling)
Nutrition Information (Note: Nutritional information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.)
- Calories: Approximately 30-40 per gummy
- Protein: Less than 1g per gummy
- Sodium: Minimal
Conclusion
Candy Cane Fireball Gummies are a fun, festive, and flavorful treat that’s perfect for adding a little kick to your holiday celebrations. With their easy preparation and delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and minty flavors, these gummies are sure to be a hit with adults who enjoy a boozy twist on classic holiday sweets. Enjoy responsibly and have a happy holiday season!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I make these gummies without alcohol? A: Yes, you can! Simply replace the Fireball whiskey with an equal amount of cinnamon-flavored syrup or apple cider. This will give you a similar flavor profile without the alcohol content.
Q2: How long do these gummies last? A: These gummies will last for about 5-7 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep them chilled to maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming too sticky.
Q3: Can I use a different type of alcohol? A: While Fireball provides a specific cinnamon flavor that complements the peppermint, you can experiment with other liquors like spiced rum or cinnamon vodka. Keep in mind that this will alter the flavor of the gummies.
Q4: What kind of molds are best for this recipe? A: Silicone molds are ideal for making gummies because they are flexible and make it easy to remove the finished product. Candy cane-shaped molds or other festive holiday shapes are a great choice, but any small silicone mold will work.
Q5: How can I prevent the gummies from being too sticky? A: Ensuring that the gelatin is fully dissolved and using the correct ratio of ingredients is key to preventing stickiness. Also, make sure to store the gummies in an airtight container in the refrigerator, as humidity can make them sticky.
