All About Gumdrops & Recipe
A Nostalgic Christmas History
Gumdrops first appeared in the early 19th century in America—some references date back to around 1801, with the term “gumdrop” first printed in 1859 in an Illinois candy shop advertisement. In 1915, Ohio confectioner Percy Truesdell, affectionately known as The Gumdrop King, perfected the modern gumdrop recipe, giving them the soft, smooth texture we know today. By the early 20th century, gumdrops had become staples of Christmas celebrations—their bright colors and fruity or spicy flavors graced candy bowls, gingerbread houses, and holiday desserts, cementing their place in festive traditions.
Classic Gumdrops & Modern Favorites
Gumdrops are cheerful, sugar-coated confections shaped like little domes or cones. Popular mainstream brands include: Brach’s, Dots, and Sweet Candy Company. Traditional fruity or spicy gumdrops, widely available at grocery stores, Walmart, Target, Walgreens, and online retailers like Amazon and CandyWarehouse. Sunkist Fruit Gems by Jelly Belly made with non-GMO ingredients, naturally colored using fruit and vegetable juices, and free from artificial dyes. Black Forest Organic Gummy Bears, while not gumdrops, they’re a clean, natural alternative using organic ingredients and plant-based colors, stocked in most grocery chains.
Where to Buy Gumdrops
You can find gumdrops almost anywhere: Local supermarkets (Target, Walmart, Kroger, Publix, Safeway), Pharmacies (Walgreens, CVS), Online: Amazon, CandyWarehouse, Nuts.com, and specialty candy shops. Seasonal aisles in big-box stores during the holidays
Homemade All-Natural Gumdrop Recipe
Ingredients: - 1 cup 100% fruit juice (cranberry, mango, or grape for natural coloring) - 3 tbsp unflavored gelatin (or agar-agar for vegan option) - 1/3 cup organic cane sugar or honey (adjust sweetness to taste) - Optional: sugar for coating Instructions: 1. Pour juice into a saucepan and sprinkle gelatin on top. Let bloom for 5 minutes. 2. Warm gently on low heat, stirring until dissolved. Add sweetener—do not boil. 3. Pour into a silicone mold. Refrigerate for 2–3 hours. 4. Pop from molds; roll in sugar if desired. 5. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Pro Tip: Use naturally vibrant juices or turmeric, spirulina, or butterfly pea flower for stunning, dye-free colors.