Homemade Allan Sour Watermelon Slice Gummy Candy Recipe: A Healthier, Customizable Treat

Category: Candy

Introduction

Allan Candy's Sour Watermelon Slice Gummies are a beloved treat known for their vibrant green color, tangy coating, and chewy texture. Originating from the renowned Allan Candy company in Canada, these gummies have captured the hearts of many with their signature watermelon flavor. Making them at home offers the advantage of using healthier ingredients and customizing the taste to your preference. This recipe not only reduces sugar content but also avoids artificial preservatives, making it a great alternative for health-conscious candy lovers. Imagine enjoying the same delightful sourness and chewiness with the satisfaction of knowing exactly what goes into your candy.

Why Make It at Home?

Crafting your own gummies at home allows for several benefits. You can adjust the sugar content, intensity of sourness, and even experiment with different flavors. Additionally, homemade gummies often have fewer additives and preservatives compared to store-bought versions, making them a healthier choice. The process is fun and rewarding, offering a sense of accomplishment with each delicious batch.

Personal Anecdote

As a child, I was enchanted by the tangy burst of Allan's Sour Watermelon Gummies. They were a staple in my lunchbox, bringing joy to each school day. Years later, my nostalgia led me to recreate them at home. After several trials, I successfully crafted a version that not only tastes like the original but is also healthier. This journey inspired me to share my recipe, hoping it brings the same delight to others.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:10 minutes
• **Total Time:30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 40-50 gummies (depending on mold size)

Ingredients

Gummy Base:

• 1 cup (240 ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60 g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60 g) light corn syrup
• 1.5 tsp (7.5 g) unflavored gelatin
• 1/2 tsp watermelon extract
• A few drops green food dye (adjust to desired color)

Sour Coating:

• 1/4 cup (60 g) citric acid (available at most pharmacy or candy-making supply stores)
• 1/4 cup (60 g) granulated sugar

Instructions

• Prepare Molds: Lightly spray watermelon slice molds with cooking spray to ensure easy removal.

• Bloom Gelatin: In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup (60 ml) of cold water with gelatin. Let sit for 5 minutes to bloom.

• Create Gummy Base: Combine remaining 3/4 cup (180 ml) water, sugar, and corn syrup in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Bring to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes.

• Add Gelatin: Remove from heat and stir in bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.

• Flavor and Color: Stir in watermelon extract and add green food dye until desired color is achieved.

• Pour into Molds: Pour mixture into prepared molds. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for about 20 minutes to set.

• Apply Sour Coating: In a bowl, mix citric acid and sugar. Once gummies are set, pop them out and toss in the sour mixture until evenly coated.

• Enjoy: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Storage Instructions

Keep gummies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and chewiness. They can be stored for up to two weeks.

Variations & Customization

• Low-Sugar Version: Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a healthier alternative.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili powder to the sour coating for a spicy kick.
• Vegan Option: Replace gelatin with pectin or agar-agar, though texture may vary slightly.

Special Equipment

• Watermelon slice candy mold
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Pro Tips

• Perfect Gelatin Bloom: Ensure gelatin blooms properly for the right texture.
• Temperature Control: Avoid overheating the mixture to prevent a rubbery texture.
• Even Coating: Toss gummies gently in the sour mixture for an even coat.

Nutritional Comparison (Per Serving)

FAQ

• Can I adjust sourness? Yes, modify citric acid to your taste.
• What if too sticky? Lightly dust with cornstarch.
• Can I use fresh watermelon? For accuracy, extracts are recommended, but fresh puree can be tried for a different flavor profile.
• How to scale? Double or halve ingredients as needed.
• Alternative molds? Use silicone ice cube trays if watermelon molds aren't available.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a sweet and sour snack on its own.
• Add to lunchboxes for a fun surprise.
• Use as decorations for cakes or cupcakes.
• Mix into trail mix for a tangy twist.

Conclusion

This recipe offers a healthier, customizable alternative to store-bought gummies, capturing the essence of Allan's Sour Watermelon Slices with less sugar and no artificial preservatives. The process is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy your favorite treat with the added benefit of knowing every ingredient. Share your creations and the joy of homemade candies with friends and family!