Homemade Bubble Gum Recipe
Introduction
Making homemade bubble gum is a fun and rewarding kitchen project that lets you customize flavors and colors. This easy recipe uses gum base and a few simple ingredients to create chewy, flavorful gum right at home.
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup gum base pellets (available online or in candy supply stores)
- ¾ cup powdered sugar plus extra for dusting
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon glycerin (optional, for softness)
- ¼ teaspoon citric acid (optional, for tartness)
- ½ teaspoon bubble gum or fruit flavoring
- A few drops of food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine gum base pellets, corn syrup, glycerin, and citric acid. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
- Step 2: Stir in the bubble gum or fruit flavoring along with food coloring if using. Mix until evenly combined.
- Step 3: Gradually add powdered sugar, stirring with a spoon or spatula until a dough forms. When cool enough to handle, transfer to a surface dusted with powdered sugar.
- Step 4: Knead the dough until smooth and pliable, dusting with more powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- Step 5: Roll the gum into a log shape, then cut into small pieces or shape as desired.
- Step 6: Wrap each piece in wax paper and store in an airtight container.
Tips & Variations
- Use glycerin for a softer, more pliable gum texture.
- Try different flavor extracts like mint or berry for unique tastes.
- Dusting with extra powdered sugar helps keep the gum from sticking while working with it.
Storage
Store your homemade bubble gum wrapped individually in wax paper in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to two weeks. If the gum hardens, knead it gently to soften before chewing.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I substitute the gum base with something else?
Gum base is essential for chewiness and texture; substitutes won’t give the same results. It’s best to purchase gum base pellets from specialty stores or online.
Is it safe to microwave the gum base?
Yes, microwaving in short bursts with stirring ensures even melting and prevents burning. Always use a microwave-safe bowl and monitor closely.
Print
Homemade Bubble Gum Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30 small pieces 1x
Description
This homemade bubble gum recipe allows you to create your own classic bubble gum from scratch using gum base pellets, powdered sugar, corn syrup, and flavoring. It is a fun and easy method to make soft, chewable gum with customizable flavor and color, perfect for candy enthusiasts and DIY lovers.
Ingredients
Gum Base Mixture
- ⅓ cup gum base pellets (available online or in candy supply stores)
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon glycerin (optional, for softness)
- ¼ teaspoon citric acid (optional, for tartness)
Flavor & Sweetener
- ¾ cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
- ½ teaspoon bubble gum or fruit flavoring
- A few drops of food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Melt Gum Base: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the gum base pellets, corn syrup, glycerin, and citric acid. Microwave the mixture in 30-second increments, stirring thoroughly between each burst, until the gum base is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Add Flavor & Color: Stir in your chosen bubble gum or fruit flavoring along with any desired food coloring. Mix well until the flavor and color are evenly distributed throughout the melted gum base.
- Add Sugar: Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar by stirring it in using a spoon or spatula. Continue adding and mixing until the mixture starts to form a dough-like consistency. When the mixture cools enough to handle safely, transfer it to a surface dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- Shape Gum: Knead the gum dough on the powdered sugar-dusted surface until the dough becomes smooth, pliable, and elastic. Once ready, roll the dough into a log shape and use a knife or cutter to slice it into small gum pieces or shape them as you desire.
- Wrap & Store: Wrap each piece of gum individually in wax paper to prevent sticking. Store all wrapped pieces in an airtight container to maintain freshness and chewiness.
Notes
- Glycerin is optional but recommended for softer gum texture.
- Citric acid adds a slight tartness to balance sweetness; omit if preferred.
- Use powdered sugar for dusting and kneading to prevent stickiness.
- Experiment with different flavorings and colorings to customize your gum.
- Store gum in a cool, dry place to prevent melting or drying out.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes (microwaving time)
- Category: Candy
- Method: Melting (Microwave Melting and Kneading on Surface)
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: homemade bubble gum, DIY bubble gum, gum base recipe, candy making, flavored gum, sweet treats
