Ghoulish gummies
These “gummy” candies are really nothing more than extra-firm gelatin molds — think Jell-O, but a lot less jiggly and with a great chewy texture. Simply make a thick gelatin base and pour into candy molds (you can find all manner of creepy molds in craft stores and online), then chill for a few hours or more until solid. 45 minutes, plus chilling time. Makes about 3 dozen candies, depending on size.
3 packages unflavored powdered gelatin
1¼ cups water, divided
2 cups sugar, plus extra for coating the candy Food coloring Flavoring extracts (such as mint, cherry, cinnamon or licorice)
1. In a wide bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over ½ cup water. Set aside to give the gelatin time to absorb the water, about 2 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine the remaining ¾ water with the sugar. Heat the mixture over high heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil to form a simple syrup. Remove from heat and add the syrup to the gelatin mixture, stirring until the gelatin is dissolved.
3. Divide the mixture into separate bowls, coloring and flavoring the mixture, a drop or two at a time, as desired. Pour the prepared mixture into molds, then refrigerate until firm, several hours and up to overnight.
4. Carefully remove the gummies from the molds (to loosen, gently cut away the edges at the top of the mold, then run the gummies (still in the molds) under warm water to loosen the gelatin; slowly pull away from the molds. If desired, toss with sugar to cover. To store, place the gummies on greased parchment in individual layers and refrigerate or keep at cool room temperature in an airtight container. The gummies will last, refrigerated, up to 1 week.