Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup light corn syrup
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/2 cup prepared food-grade gum base
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, plus 2 tablespoons for dusting
- 1/2 teaspoon food-grade bubble gum flavoring
- 2 drops gel food coloring (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for dusting)
- 1 sheet parchment paper, 12 inches by 16 inches
- 1 sheet wax paper, cut into 24 pieces about 3 inches by 4 inches
- 1 medium heavy saucepan, 2-quart size
- 1 wooden spoon or heat-resistant silicone spatula
- 1 candy thermometer
- 1 silicone baking mat or 1 rimmed baking sheet, 9 inches by 13 inches
- 1 small bowl, 2-cup size
- 1 teaspoon measuring spoon
- 1 pair food-safe disposable gloves (optional)
- 1 clean kitchen towel, medium size
- 1 heat-safe work surface or trivet
Instructions
- Cover the table with a clean kitchen towel or another washable cloth.
- Measure out the sugar, corn syrup, water, gum base, powdered sugar, cornstarch, flavoring, and food coloring.
- Prepare the dusting mixture by stirring powdered sugar with cornstarch in a small bowl.
- Spread half of the dusting mixture over the parchment-lined baking mat or baking sheet.
- Warm the gum base in a medium saucepan over low heat until it softens.
- In a second saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir until sugar dissolves.
- Attach the candy thermometer and cook until the syrup reaches 235°F to 240°F (soft-ball stage).
- Remove the syrup from heat and stir in the softened gum base, powdered sugar, flavoring, and food coloring.
- Spread the warm mixture onto the prepared parchment and dust with remaining mixture.
- Let cool for 30 to 45 minutes until the surface is warm.
- Dust hands or gloves with the reserved mixture and knead the gum for 5 to 8 minutes.
- Shape the gum into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut into about 24 pieces, each close to 1/2 inch wide.
- Wrap each piece in wax paper and let them rest for 2 hours at room temperature.
Notes
Keep children away from the hot saucepan until the gum cools enough to touch. Use food-grade ingredients only and discard any spoiled pieces.
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
