Can I use less sugar or a sugar substitute?

Stick with the full amount of regular granulated sugar—lowering it will ruin the texture and prevent the gummies from setting. Alternative sweeteners or low-sugar pectin aren’t suitable for this recipe.

Do I need to use a candy thermometer?

Absolutely! Reaching precisely 230°F is key to that chewy, bouncy gummy texture. Eyeballing isn’t reliable here.

Can I use gelatin instead of pectin?

For this particular shelf-stable, chewy candy, yes, you need the original pectin and technique as outlined. Gelatin makes a different, softer gummy (more like jello candies).

My gummies are sticky after coating—what did I do wrong?

This can happen if they’re undercooked or humidity’s high. Make sure they fully cool before rolling in sugar. If needed, let them air-dry on a rack for an hour before storing.

Homemade Sour Strawberry Gummies Recipe

Name: Homemade Sour Strawberry Gummies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces (300 g) fresh or frozen (and thawed) strawberries, pureed; 1⅔ cup (330 g) granulated sugar (do not reduce); 2 tablespoons (44 g) corn syrup; 1 box (48 g) regular fruit pectin (Sure Jell Original in the yellow box is recommended); ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ cup (120 g) filtered water; ¼ teaspoon powdered citric acid, dissolved in 1 tablespoon warm water (or 2 tablespoons lemon juice); ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon powdered citric acid

Get ready to fall in love with these Homemade Sour Strawberry Gummies! Imagine soft, tangy, intensely fruity bites that taste like summer itself—ready to brighten any busy day. This recipe lets you craft your own gummies right at home, and it only takes a handful of everyday ingredients. No specialty equipment required except a reliable saucepan and some silicone molds—or just a parchment-lined pan. In under an hour of hands-on time, you can whip up a whole batch that puts store-bought candies to shame. Whether for after-school snacks, party treats, or a sweet pop of nostalgia, these gummies are the perfect way to add homemade flair to your weeknight routine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Aside from cooling time, these gummies come together in under an hour with basic steps—no fancy skills needed.
Unbeatable Flavor: Using real strawberries means honest-to-goodness fruitiness in every bite, plus a punchy sour zing.
Homemade is Best: You control the ingredients and can tweak the flavor to suit your taste. Plus, it just feels great to make your own candy!
Fun for All Ages: The process is as enjoyable as the results, and the gummies are endlessly customizable for parties, gifts, or just a treat-yourself moment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get to know your ingredients—each one has a special job in making these gummies perfect!

Strawberries: Fresh or thawed frozen strawberries, pureed for full fruit flavor and gorgeous color. The riper, the tastier!
Granulated Sugar: Powers the sweetness and texture—don’t reduce it or your gummies won’t set. This is absolutely non-negotiable for candy.
Corn Syrup: Adds shine and keeps the gummies soft and chewy instead of gritty.
Fruit Pectin: The magic behind that “gummy” set—Sure Jell in the yellow box works great. Avoid low sugar pectin, it will not work here!
Baking Soda: Balances the pectin mixture and ensures a smooth consistency.
Filtered Water: Used to bloom the pectin and dissolve the citric acid.
Citric Acid or Lemon Juice: Brings that addictively tart, mouth-puckering sourness.
Coating Sugar: A mix of sugar with a dash of citric acid makes the perfect tart-sweet finish.

Note: Never reduce the sugar or use sweetener alternatives—candy making is science, and this recipe depends on the right sugar ratio for both taste and texture!

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

With a base this delicious, you’re only limited by your imagination. Try these variations:

Different Fruits: Swap strawberries for raspberries, blackberries, or a mix—just keep the amounts the same!
Tropical Vibes: Puree mango or pineapple for exotic gummies.
Super Sour: Double the citric acid in the coating for extra zing.
Fun Shapes: Use novelty silicone molds to make hearts, stars, or animal shapes—kids love these!
Vegan Option: Most fruit pectins are vegan, but always check the label just in case.

How to Make Homemade Sour Strawberry Gummies

Prep Your Molds or Pan

Set up your silicone molds (or a parchment-lined pan if you like cutting to size later) on a stable, heat-safe surface. The mixture gets hot—don’t put it on sensitive countertops!

Make the Strawberry Base

In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine strawberry puree, sugar, and corn syrup. Heat gently to a boil, stirring occasionally to make sure nothing sticks.

Prepare the Pectin Mixture

Meanwhile, in a small pot, combine pectin, baking soda, and water. Bring to a simmer; it’ll foam up (totally normal!). Once the foam subsides, pour this mixture into your strawberry pot.

Cook to the Right Temperature

Attach a candy thermometer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mix hits 230°F—this usually takes about 45 minutes. Stir more often as it approaches temperature so nothing scorches.

Add the Sour Punch & Pour

Remove from heat, stir in your dissolved citric acid (or lemon juice) quickly and carefully—it may bubble and steam. Pour immediately into your prepared molds or pan.

Cool and Cut

Let your gummies cool to room temperature, ideally for 2 hours or overnight. Once set, unmold or cut into squares (or use cookie cutters for fun shapes!).

Sugar Coat Them

Mix your coating sugar and citric acid together. Roll each gummy until fully coated in zingy, sparkly sugar.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use a reliable candy thermometer: temperature is everything—don’t guess!
Move fast when pouring into molds: the mixture thickens quickly as it cools.
Lightly oiling your mold can help with easy removal: especially for intricate shapes.
For super clear gummies: strain your fruit puree before starting.
Clean up sticky pans promptly with hot water: makes life MUCH easier.

How to Serve

Homemade sour strawberry gummies are party-ready straight from the bowl, but they also shine as:

Gift Bags: Box or bag them for holiday or birthday treats.
Party Platters: Pair with other homemade sweets and fresh fruit slices.
Dessert Garnish: Top ice cream, yogurt, or cupcakes for an extra special touch.
After-School Snack: Fuel up with a few gummies and a glass of cold milk (or sparkling water).

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep the gummies in an uncovered container at cool room temperature for up to 1 week. Want them to last longer? Store in the fridge—layered between parchment—for 2 weeks.

Freezing

Yes, these gummies freeze beautifully! Tuck them between parchment in a freezer-safe container and freeze up to 3 months.

Reheating

Not necessary! Just let chilled or frozen gummies come up to room temp before enjoying so they’re perfectly chewy.

FAQs

Can I use less sugar or a sugar substitute?

Stick with the full amount of regular granulated sugar—lowering it will ruin the texture and prevent the gummies from setting. Alternative sweeteners or low-sugar pectin aren’t suitable for this recipe.
Do I need to use a candy thermometer?

Absolutely! Reaching precisely 230°F is key to that chewy, bouncy gummy texture. Eyeballing isn’t reliable here.
Can I use gelatin instead of pectin?

For this particular shelf-stable, chewy candy, yes, you need the original pectin and technique as outlined. Gelatin makes a different, softer gummy (more like jello candies).
My gummies are sticky after coating—what did I do wrong?

This can happen if they’re undercooked or humidity’s high. Make sure they fully cool before rolling in sugar. If needed, let them air-dry on a rack for an hour before storing.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Sour Strawberry Gummies are pure magic: easy, quick, customizable, and bursting with real berry flavor. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for family, friends, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, they’re bound to bring a burst of joy. So grab those strawberries, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to amaze yourself with how simple and delicious homemade candy can be!