Homemade Brach Abra CaBubble Bubble Gum Filled Candy Balls Cherry Flavored Candy Individually Wrapped Bulk Bag Recipe: A Healthier, Customizable Delight

Category: Candy

Introduction

Brach's Abra CaBubble Bubble Gum Filled Candy Balls are a beloved treat known for their vibrant colors, burst of cherry flavor, and the surprise of bubble gum at the center. These individually wrapped candies have been a favorite for decades, offering a fun and tangy experience. However, many of us wish for a version that's healthier, customizable, and free from some of the preservatives found in commercial products. This recipe allows you to create these iconic candies at home with natural ingredients, reduced sugar, and the flexibility to adapt flavors and textures to your liking. Plus, it’s a fun project that can involve the whole family!

Why Make It at Home?

Making candies at home offers several advantages. Not only can you control the ingredients, but you can also customize the flavors and colors to suit your preferences. This homemade version reduces the sugar content and avoids artificial preservatives, making it a healthier alternative. Additionally, it's cost-effective and allows for creative experimentation, such as adding different flavors or using natural food colorings.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the thrill of discovering Brach's Abra CaBubble candies as a child. The surprise of biting into a sweet, chewy shell and finding a piece of bubble gum inside was pure magic. As an adult, I wanted to recreate that magic for my kids but with healthier ingredients. After several trials and errors, I perfected a recipe that not only tastes like the original but is also better for you. My kids love helping me make these, and it's become a special bonding activity in our household.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:30 minutes
• **Cook Time:10 minutes
• **Total Time:40 minutes
• **Yield:20-25 pieces

Ingredients

Candy Shell:

• 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa for less sugar)
• 1/4 cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp (5g) cherry flavor extract
• 1/4 tsp (1.25g) red food coloring (natural or artificial)
• 1 tsp (5g) coconut oil

Bubble Gum Center:

• 1 envelope (0.25 oz/7g) unsweetened gelatin
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60g) light corn syrup
• 1/2 tsp (2.5g) bubble gum flavor extract
• 1/4 tsp (1.25g) pink food coloring
• 1 tbsp (15g) glycerin (optional, for chewiness)

Coating:

• Confectioners' sugar, for dusting

Instructions

• Prepare the Bubble Gum Centers:

• In a small bowl, bloom the gelatin in cold water for 5 minutes until it softens.

  • In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup (60ml) water. Heat on medium until sugar dissolves, then bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until dissolved.
  • Add bubble gum extract and pink food coloring. Pour into a lined or greased candy mold.
  • Let set at room temperature for 20-25 minutes until firm. Cut into small pieces for the centers.

• Prepare the Candy Shell:

• Melt chocolate in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.

  • Stir in powdered sugar, cherry extract, and red food coloring until well combined.

• Assemble the Candies:

• Dip each gum center into the melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool, tapping off excess.

  • Place on parchment-lined baking sheets. Let harden at room temperature or in the fridge for 10 minutes.

• Finish and Store:

• Once set, dust with confectioners' sugar and wrap individually if desired.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Use natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol.
• Vegan Option: Replace gelatin with agar-agar and use vegan chocolate.
• Different Flavors: Try blue raspberry or orange flavors for variety.

Pro Tips

• Use high-quality molds for smooth candy shells.
• Experiment with natural flavor extracts for unique tastes.
• For a glossy finish, temper the chocolate before coating.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use natural food coloring? Yes, beet juice works well for red.
• How long do they last? Up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.
• Can I make them vegan? Yes, with agar-agar and vegan chocolate.
• What if the chocolate seizes? Re-melt gently and re-dip.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect for parties, gifts, or as a sweet treat.
• Use as decorations for cakes or cupcakes.

Conclusion

This recipe brings back childhood memories with a healthier twist. Enjoy the fun of making your own Abra CaBubble candies, knowing they're better for you and customizable to your taste. Share your creations and enjoy the delight of homemade goodness!