We Tried Frozen Gummy Bears
We Tried Frozen Gummy Bears is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by Allrecipes on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 6 hrs | Total: 6 hrs 15 min
Cost: $42.28 total, $10.57 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Assorted Red and Green Gummy Bears (soft candy, preferably fruit‑flavored)
- 0.5 cup Lifesaver Gummies (adds a different texture and flavor)
- 2 cups Cranberry‑Flavored Sprite (holiday soda; can substitute any clear, lightly flavored soda)
Instructions
Prepare Gummies
Place the assorted red and green gummy bears and Lifesaver gummies into a large mixing bowl.
Time: PT2M
Add Holiday Soda
Pour the cranberry‑flavored Sprite over the gummies, ensuring they are fully submerged.
Time: PT1M
Refrigerate to Infuse
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight.
Time: PT8H
Transfer to Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon, scoop the soaked gummies onto the sheet, spacing them in a single layer.
Time: PT5M
Freeze Until Solid
Place the baking sheet in the freezer and freeze for at least 6 hours, or until the gummies are completely solid.
Time: PT6H
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the frozen gummy bears from the freezer, let them sit for a minute, then pop them onto a plate and enjoy immediately.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 120
- Protein
- 0g
- Carbohydrates
- 30g
- Fat
- 0g
- Fiber
- 0g
Dietary info: Gluten‑Free, Nut‑Free, Vegetarian‑Friendly (contains gelatin)
Allergens: Gelatin
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Assorted Red and Green Gummy Bears: Other gummy bear colors, Fruit‑flavored gummy worms
- Instead of Lifesaver Gummies: Other hard candy gummies, Jolly Rancher gummies
- Instead of Cranberry‑Flavored Sprite: Cranberry soda, Lemon‑lime soda, Club soda with a splash of cranberry juice
Equipment Needed
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Plastic Wrap
- Parchment Paper
- Baking Sheet
- Spoon or Small Ladle
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Refrigerate to Infuse
- Freeze Until Solid
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a clear, lightly flavored soda for the best visual effect.
- Add a splash of fresh lemon juice to the soda for extra zing.
- For a festive look, use holiday‑themed gummy shapes or add a few red sprinkles before freezing.
Troubleshooting
Gummies did not swell or absorb the soda.
Make sure the gummies are completely covered with soda and refrigerate for the full 8‑hour period or longer.
Gummies stick together after freezing.
Separate them on parchment paper before freezing and ensure they are spaced apart.
Gummies become too hard and difficult to bite.
Let the frozen gummies sit at room temperature for 1‑2 minutes before eating to soften slightly.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days; texture will soften.
Freezer: Can be kept frozen for up to 1 month.
Room temperature: Not recommended; gummies will melt and become sticky.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the gummy‑soda mixture a day ahead and keep it refrigerated before freezing.
- Freeze gummies in silicone molds for fun shapes and easier removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of frozen gummy bears in American holiday celebrations?
Frozen gummy bears are a modern, internet‑driven twist on classic candy, popularized on social media during the holiday season as a playful, bite‑size treat that mimics the look of tiny ice crystals. While not rooted in traditional holiday cuisine, they reflect the American love for novelty sweets and DIY festive snacks.
How do frozen gummy bears fit into the broader American dessert tradition?
They join a lineage of easy, no‑bake desserts like ice cream sandwiches and frozen fruit pops, offering a quick, portable sweet that can be made with pantry staples. Their bright colors and frosty texture make them a fun addition to holiday dessert tables alongside cookies and pies.
What are traditional regional variations of frozen gummy bear treats in the United States?
While the basic concept is the same nationwide, some regions add local twists—such as using regional sodas (e.g., Mountain Dew in the West) or incorporating seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice in the Midwest. The core idea of soaking candy in soda and freezing remains consistent.
What occasions or celebrations are frozen gummy bears traditionally associated with in American culture?
They are most popular during winter holidays—Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and holiday parties—because the frosty appearance matches the season. They also appear at birthday parties and summer barbecues as a novelty frozen treat.
What authentic traditional ingredients are used in frozen gummy bears versus acceptable substitutes?
The authentic recipe calls for fruit‑flavored gummy bears, Lifesaver hard candies, and a clear, lightly flavored soda such as cranberry Sprite. Substitutes include any gummy candy, other hard candies, and any clear soda or sparkling water flavored with fruit juice.
What other American holiday desserts pair well with frozen gummy bears?
They pair nicely with classic holiday cookies, peppermint bark, and hot chocolate. Their bright, icy bite offers a contrast to richer desserts like pumpkin pie or pecan tart.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making frozen gummy bears?
Common errors include not fully submerging the gummies in soda, refrigerating for too short a time, and freezing them on a crowded sheet which causes them to stick together. Follow the soaking and spacing steps carefully for best results.
Why does this frozen gummy bear recipe use refrigeration overnight before freezing instead of freezing immediately?
Refrigerating allows the gummies to absorb the soda and swell, creating a softer interior that stays chewy after freezing. Freezing immediately would trap air bubbles and result in a hard, less flavorful bite.
Can I make frozen gummy bears ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can prepare the soda‑soaked mixture a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. After freezing, store the solid gummies in an airtight container or zip‑top bag in the freezer for up to one month.
What does the YouTube channel Allrecipes specialize in?
The YouTube channel Allrecipes specializes in a wide range of home‑cooking tutorials, from quick weeknight meals to seasonal treats, offering step‑by‑step videos that cater to cooks of all skill levels.
How does the YouTube channel Allrecipes' approach to holiday candy recipes differ from other cooking channels?
Allrecipes focuses on accessible, ingredient‑light recipes that use everyday pantry items, emphasizing clear visuals and concise instructions. Their holiday candy videos often highlight viral trends and provide practical tips for home cooks, unlike channels that may use more specialized equipment or exotic ingredients.
Last updated: September 1, 2026
