Homemade Bubble Gum

Have you ever dreamed of making Homemade Bubble Gum right in your own kitchen? This nostalgic, chewy treat isn’t just fun to eat—it’s even more fun to make! With simple ingredients and a step-by-step guide, this recipe lets you craft your own flavorful bubble gum in any color or taste you like. It’s perfect for parties, creative family projects, or reliving childhood memories.

A Sweet Flashback

When I was little, my grandmother always had a stash of old-fashioned gum hidden in the kitchen drawer. The flavors were simple—cherry, peppermint, maybe lemon on a wild day—but there was nothing more magical than that first sweet chew. Years later, I discovered that homemade bubble gum is not only possible but incredibly rewarding. This recipe brings together all the joy of that childhood treat, with the added bonus of total customization.

Ingredients for Homemade Bubble Gum

Makes about 30 servings

For the Base:

• 2 cups white granulated sugar
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ½ cup water (divided)

For the Texture:

• 1 tablespoon plain, unflavored gelatin powder
• ½ teaspoon fine salt

Optional Add-Ins:

• Food coloring (choose any color to match your flavor)
• Flavor extracts (e.g., cherry, lemon, peppermint)

For Kneading:

• Powdered sugar (as needed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin

In a small bowl, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of unflavored gelatin over ¼ cup of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to fully bloom. This will give your gum that classic chewy stretch.

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Base

In a medium saucepan, combine:

• 2 cups of sugar
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• Remaining ¼ cup of water

Heat over medium, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns clear.

Step 3: Reach the Right Temperature

Attach a candy thermometer to your saucepan. Increase the heat and let the mixture boil until it reaches 300°F (hard-crack stage). This is crucial for achieving that signature chewy texture.

Step 4: Mix in the Magic

Remove the pot from heat and quickly stir in:

• The bloomed gelatin
• Salt
• Your chosen food coloring
• A few drops of flavor extract

Mix until fully combined and smooth.

Step 5: Cool Slightly

Pour the mixture onto a silicone baking mat or into a greased heatproof bowl. Allow it to cool for 20–30 minutes until it thickens to a taffy-like consistency.

Knead and Shape the Bubble Gum

Step 6: Dust and Knead

Dust a clean surface with powdered sugar. Transfer your gum base and knead until smooth and pliable, adding more powdered sugar if it sticks.

Step 7: Shape It

Roll the gum into ropes or balls, or flatten into sheets and cut into squares. Use wax paper to wrap each piece, or store in an airtight container.

Tips for Success

• Be quick but careful: The hot sugar mixture sets fast once it starts cooling, so be ready to work.
• Use gloves if needed: Kneading warm sugar can be sticky business.
• Try a gum mold: Want fun shapes? Use silicone candy molds before the mixture cools completely.

Flavor & Color Ideas

Here are a few flavor combos to try:

• Pink + Cherry Extract
• Yellow + Lemon Extract
• Green + Mint Extract
• Blue + Cotton Candy Flavor

Mix and match for a rainbow pack of bubble gum everyone will love!

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Homemade Bubble Gum recipe makes for:

• Party favors
• Kids’ activities
• Holiday gifts
• DIY candy bars

Make it ahead, store it in decorative jars, or set up a gum-making station at your next birthday party!

Storage Instructions

Keep your bubble gum in an airtight container at room temperature. Wrapped individually in wax paper, each piece will stay soft and chewy for about 2 weeks—if it even lasts that long!

Final Thoughts

Once you make your first batch of Homemade Bubble Gum, you’ll be hooked. With just a few ingredients and a little kitchen magic, you can create a chewy, flavorful treat that’s better than anything store-bought. Try this recipe today and bring a little sweet fun into your home!

The Goods