Homemade 12 Brach Original Jelly Beans 11 Ounce Bags Recipe: A Healthier, Customizable Candy Classic

Category: Candy

Introduction

Brach's Original Jelly Beans have been a beloved treat for generations, known for their vibrant colors, variety of fruit flavors, and iconic chewy texture. First introduced by Emil J. Brach in 1904, Brach's candies quickly became a staple in American confectionery. The original jelly beans offer a delightful burst of fruit flavors, making them a favorite at parties, holidays, and everyday snacking. While store-bought jelly beans are convenient, making them at home allows for customization, reduced sugar content, and the use of higher-quality ingredients, ensuring a treat that's both delicious and better for you.

Making jelly beans at home might seem daunting, but with the right techniques and ingredients, you can create a product that rivals the original. This recipe not only captures the authentic taste of Brach's Jelly Beans but also offers the flexibility to tweak flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether you're looking to reduce sugar, use natural colors, or experiment with unique flavors, this recipe is your gateway to creating personalized jelly beans that are as healthy as they are tasty.

Why Make It at Home?

Crafting your own jelly beans at home offers several advantages:

• Customization: Tailor flavors, colors, and even shapes to your liking.
• Healthier Ingredients: Use natural sweeteners, reduce sugar content, and opt for organic ingredients.
• Cost-Effective: Making in bulk can be more economical than purchasing multiple store-bought bags.
• Fun Project: Engage in a fun and educational cooking project that's perfect for families or hobbyists.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the thrill of discovering Brach's Jelly Beans as a child—the excitement of diving into a bag and never knowing which flavor I'd get next. As I grew older, my appreciation for these little candies only deepened, but so did my awareness of the ingredients used in commercial products. This led me on a journey to recreate them at home, using healthier alternatives without sacrificing that iconic taste and texture. The result? A recipe that not only mirrors the original but offers a more wholesome option for enjoying this childhood favorite.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:60 minutes
• **Cook Time:30 minutes
• **Total Time:90 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 ounces (340g) of jelly beans

Ingredients

Jelly Bean Centers:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unflavored gelatin
• 1/4 cup (60ml) light corn syrup (or honey/maple syrup for a healthier option)
• Food coloring (natural options like beet juice for red)
• Flavor extracts (cherry, orange, lemon, lime, grape, pineapple)

Coating:

• 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30g) cornstarch
• Natural food coloring for coating (optional)

Instructions

• Prepare the Gelatin: In a small bowl, bloom the gelatin in 1/4 cup of cold water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.

• Cook the Sugar Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

• Add Gelatin and Flavor: Remove from heat, stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Add a few drops of flavor extract and coloring. Pour into a lined baking dish and let set at room temperature for 30 minutes.

• Shape the Jelly: Once set, cut into small bean shapes. Use a toothpick or small cookie cutter to create the desired shape.

• Dry the Jelly Beans: Let the shaped jelly beans air dry for 24-48 hours to develop their chewy texture.

• Coat the Beans: In a bowl, mix powdered sugar and cornstarch. Toss the dried jelly beans in the mixture until evenly coated.

• Cure the Coating: Let the coated beans sit for 24 hours to allow the coating to set.

Storage Instructions

Store your homemade jelly beans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 months.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Replace granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol.
• Vegan Option: Use agar-agar instead of gelatin for a plant-based version.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Special Equipment

• Candy Thermometer
• Silicone Candy Molds (optional)
• Food Dehydrator (optional)

Pro Tips

• Humidity Control: Ensure the environment is not too humid to prevent the jelly beans from becoming sticky.
• Even Coating: Toss beans in small batches for an even coating.
• Natural Colors: Experiment with natural dyes like turmeric for yellow or spirulina for green.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh fruit juice for flavor? Yes, but reduce the amount to avoid excess moisture.
• How do I fix sticky jelly beans? Dust them with more powdered sugar.
• Can I make them vegan? Yes, use agar-agar as a gelatin substitute.
• How long do they last? Up to 2 weeks at room temperature or 2 months refrigerated.
• Can I scale the recipe? Easily scale by adjusting ingredient quantities.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a sweet snack on its own.
• Use as decorations for cakes or cupcakes.
• Mix into homemade trail mix for a sweet and salty blend.

Conclusion

This recipe offers a healthier and customizable way to enjoy the classic taste of Brach's Jelly Beans. With natural ingredients and reduced sugar, you can indulge guilt-free. Share your creations and enjoy the process of crafting your own candy at home!