Making the Viral Frozen Gummy Bears
Making the VIRAL FROZEN GUMMY BEARS! is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 100 calories per serving. Recipe by Anna Avocado on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 14 hrs 30 min | Total: 14 hrs 55 min
Cost: $3.50 total, $0.88 per serving
Ingredients
- 200 g Gummy Bears (regular fruit‑flavored gummy bears, uncoated)
- 240 ml Sprite (regular lemon‑lime soda, room temperature)
Instructions
Arrange Gummy Bears
Lay the gummy bears in a single, evenly spaced layer on the freezer‑safe tray so they don’t touch each other.
Time: PT5M
Add Sprite
Pour the Sprite over the gummy bears until they are just covered, about 1‑2 mm of liquid above the bears.
Time: PT5M
Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the tray tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours (overnight) to let the gummy bears absorb the soda.
Time: PT12H
Temperature: 4°C
Freeze the Bears
After the refrigeration period, remove the plastic wrap, let any excess liquid drain, and transfer the tray to the freezer. Freeze for 2‑3 hours until the bears are solid.
Time: PT2H30M
Temperature: -18°C
Serve
Remove the tray from the freezer, let the bears sit for about 2 minutes to soften slightly, then enjoy straight from the tray or transfer to a serving plate.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 100
- Protein
- 0 g
- Carbohydrates
- 25 g
- Fat
- 0 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Contains gelatin (not vegetarian), Contains added sugar
Allergens: Gelatin, Food coloring
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Gummy Bears: Fruit‑flavored gummy worms, Other gummy candy
- Instead of Sprite: 7 Up, Club Soda with a splash of lemon‑lime juice
Equipment Needed
- Freezer‑Safe Tray
- Plastic Wrap
- Spoon or Small Ladle (optional)
- Refrigerator
- Freezer
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Adding the correct amount of Sprite so the bears are just covered.
- Refrigerating overnight to allow full absorption.
- Freezing for the proper 2‑3 hours to set the bears without freezer burn.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For a lower‑sugar version, substitute half the Sprite with sparkling water and add a splash of natural fruit juice.
- If you want a more intense flavor, add a few drops of food‑grade flavor extract (e.g., raspberry) to the soda before pouring.
Troubleshooting
Gummy bears did not expand.
Make sure the bears were fully submerged with Sprite and refrigerated for at least 8 hours. A shorter soak will limit absorption.
Bears are too soggy after freezing.
Use less Sprite next time—just enough to cover the bears. Drain excess liquid before moving to the freezer.
Bears develop freezer burn or icy crystals.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. Avoid opening the freezer frequently during the 2‑3 hour freeze.
Storage
Refrigerator: Not recommended; gummy bears will become soggy.
Freezer: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Room temperature: Consume within 1 hour after removal; they melt quickly.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare multiple trays at once and freeze them in separate zip‑top bags for easy grab‑and‑go snacks.
- Use flavored sodas (e.g., cherry or orange) for different taste variations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of gummy bears in American candy culture?
Gummy bears were invented in Germany in the 1920s but became a staple in American snack aisles after the 1970s, symbolizing playful, bite‑size candy that appeals to both kids and adults. Their chewy texture and bright colors have made them a pop‑culture icon featured in movies, TV shows, and novelty recipes like frozen gummy bears.
How did the frozen gummy bear trend start in the United States?
The trend began on social media platforms where home cooks experimented with soaking gummy bears in soda before freezing them, creating a larger, juicier version that looks like a mini‑ice pop. The visual “before and after” effect quickly went viral, inspiring channels like Anna Avocado to share step‑by‑step tutorials.
What occasions or celebrations are frozen gummy bears traditionally associated with in American snack culture?
Frozen gummy bears are popular at summer barbecues, movie nights, birthday parties, and as a whimsical addition to holiday dessert tables. Their bright colors and easy‑grab format make them a crowd‑pleasing novelty treat for both kids and adults.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for frozen gummy bears versus acceptable substitutes?
The authentic recipe uses regular fruit‑flavored gummy bears and a clear lemon‑lime soda such as Sprite. Acceptable substitutes include other gummy candy shapes and alternative carbonated drinks like 7 Up, club soda with citrus juice, or flavored sparkling water for a lower‑sugar version.
What other American snack dishes pair well with frozen gummy bears?
Frozen gummy bears pair nicely with popcorn, ice‑cream sundaes, or as a topping for frozen yogurt. They also work as a fun side to a candy‑themed dessert platter that includes chocolate‑covered pretzels and marshmallow treats.
What makes frozen gummy bears special or unique in American snack cuisine?
They transform a familiar chewy candy into a frozen, bite‑size treat that combines texture contrast—crisp on the outside, juicy inside—and a subtle soda flavor infusion, offering a novel sensory experience that isn’t found in traditional candy.
How does the YouTube channel Anna Avocado specialize in snack‑focused, no‑cook recipes?
Anna Avocado’s channel focuses on quick, minimal‑equipment snack ideas that often involve simple ingredient swaps, visual transformations, and playful presentations. The channel’s style emphasizes bright visuals, step‑by‑step narration, and approachable techniques for home cooks of all skill levels.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making frozen gummy bears?
Common mistakes include using too much soda, which makes the bears soggy; not covering the bears tightly, leading to freezer burn; and insufficient refrigeration time, which prevents the bears from fully expanding. Follow the measured amounts and timing for best results.
Why does this frozen gummy bear recipe use Sprite instead of plain water?
Sprite adds both carbonation and a subtle lemon‑lime flavor that infuses the gummy bears during the overnight soak, enhancing sweetness and creating a slightly fizzy mouthfeel once frozen. Plain water would not provide the same flavor boost or texture change.
Can I make frozen gummy bears ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can prepare a full batch a day in advance. After freezing, keep the bears in an airtight container or zip‑top bag inside the freezer. They stay fresh for up to two weeks; bring them out only when you’re ready to serve.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the frozen gummy bears are done?
The bears should be solid and slightly translucent, with a glossy surface that shows they have absorbed the soda. When you bite into them, they should feel firm on the outside but release a juicy, slightly fizzy interior.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
