Ingredients
- 1/3 cup gum base pellets or chopped food-grade gum base
- 1 tablespoon corn syrup
- 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin, food grade
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar, plus up to 2 additional tablespoons for kneading
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon food-grade liquid flavoring, such as peppermint, fruit, or vanilla
- 1 to 3 drops gel food coloring, optional
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar for the work surface
- 1 small microwave-safe bowl, 8-ounce size
- 1 small silicone spatula or sturdy spoon
- 1 small measuring cup or set of measuring spoons
- 1 sheet parchment paper, about 12 by 16 inches
- 1 sheet wax paper, about 12 by 16 inches
- 1 clean work surface or cutting board, at least 12 by 16 inches
- 1 pair food-safe disposable gloves, optional for kneading
- 1 kitchen timer, optional but helpful
- 1 airtight container, 16-ounce size, for resting or storing the gum
- 1 clean pair of kitchen scissors, for cutting parchment or wrappers
Instructions
- Cover your table with parchment or a clean washable mat before you begin.
- Measure the gum base, corn syrup, and vegetable glycerin into the 8-ounce microwave-safe bowl.
- Warm the gum base mixture in the microwave for 20 seconds. Stir carefully, then continue in 10-second bursts until the base looks soft and glossy.
- Stir in the powdered sugar and cornstarch while the mixture remains warm.
- Add the food-grade flavoring and gel food coloring, if using them.
- Dust the parchment-covered work surface with 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar. Turn the warm gum mixture onto the surface.
- Let the mixture stand for 1 to 2 minutes to become easier to touch. Put on gloves if using and lightly dust with powdered sugar.
- Knead the gum for 5 to 8 minutes. Add remaining powdered sugar in small pinches only when the gum keeps sticking.
- Shape the gum into a short rope about 1 inch thick and use kitchen scissors to cut it into about 20 pieces.
- Place the pieces on a clean sheet of parchment with space between them. Let them rest uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Cut the wax paper into small rectangles about 3 by 4 inches. Place one gum piece in the center of each rectangle and wrap.
- Set the wrapped pieces in the airtight container and let them rest for at least 2 hours before chewing.
Notes
You can substitute honey for the corn syrup, though the flavor will be more noticeable. If you can't find food-grade vegetable glycerin, add an extra teaspoon of corn syrup.
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
