These were actually insane!

These were actually insane! is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by Patrick Zeinali on YouTube.

Prep: 24 hrs 5 min | Cook: 3 hrs | Total: 27 hrs 15 min

Cost: $4.67 total, $1.17 per serving

Ingredients

  • 200 g Gummy Bears (regular fruit‑flavored gummy bears, unopened package)
  • 2 cups Carbonated Lemon‑Lime Soda (room‑temperature, any clear lemon‑lime soda works best)

Instructions

  1. Gather and Measure Ingredients

    Measure 200 g of gummy bears and pour 2 cups of lemon‑lime soda into a mixing bowl.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Combine and Rest

    Stir the gummy bears into the soda until they are evenly coated, then transfer the mixture to an airtight container and seal tightly. Let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours so the gummies absorb the soda.

    Time: PT24H

    Temperature: 20‑22°C

  3. Freeze the Gummies

    Place the sealed container in the freezer and freeze for about 3 hours, or until the gummies are firm to the touch.

    Time: PT3H

    Temperature: 0°F

  4. Serve

    Remove the container from the freezer, let it sit for 2‑3 minutes to make removal easier, then pop the frozen soda gummies into serving bowls or directly onto plates.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
120
Protein
0 g
Carbohydrates
30 g
Fat
0 g
Fiber
0 g

Dietary info: Gluten‑Free, Contains Gelatin

Allergens: Gelatin

Last updated: April 19, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

These were actually insane!

Recipe by Patrick Zeinali

A fun, two‑ingredient snack that turns ordinary gummy bears into oversized, fizzy frozen treats. Soak gummy bears in carbonated soda for 24 hours, then freeze for a few hours for a refreshing, bite‑size dessert.

EasyAmericanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
27h 10m
Prep
0m
Cook
3h 16m
Cleanup
30h 26m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.67
Total cost
$1.17
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Allow the gummy bears to soak in soda for a full 24 hours to fully absorb the carbonation.
  • Freeze the soaked gummies for at least 3 hours to achieve a solid, bite‑size texture.

Safety Warnings

  • Consume in moderation – the snack is high in sugar.
  • If using a glass container, handle with care when moving it to the freezer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of frozen gummy bear snacks in American candy culture?

A

While gummy bears originated in Germany in the 1920s, American snack innovators have turned them into novelty treats. Freezing them after soaking in soda is a recent internet‑driven trend that blends the love of candy with the popularity of frozen desserts, especially among teens and party‑goers.

cultural
Q

What regional variations exist for soda‑infused gummy treats in the United States?

A

In the U.S., home cooks experiment with different sodas—cola, root beer, or fruit‑flavored sparkling water—to match regional flavor preferences. Some Southern cooks add a splash of sweet tea soda, while West Coast versions often use citrus‑heavy sodas like grapefruit or lime.

cultural
Q

How are frozen soda gummies traditionally served at gatherings in American party culture?

A

They are usually presented on a chilled platter or in individual cups as a bite‑size, refreshing palate cleanser. Hosts often pair them with other frozen treats like ice‑cream sandwiches or fruit sorbets for a playful dessert bar.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations are frozen gummy bears commonly associated with in the United States?

A

These fizzy frozen gummies are popular at birthday parties, summer barbecues, and movie‑night gatherings because they are quick to make, visually striking, and appeal to both kids and adults.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are required for frozen gummy bears, and what are acceptable substitutes?

A

The authentic recipe uses plain gummy bears (gelatin‑based) and a clear carbonated lemon‑lime soda. Substitutes include any gummy candy and any carbonated beverage such as club soda with fruit juice, orange soda, or flavored sparkling water.

cultural
Q

What other American snack dishes pair well with frozen soda gummies?

A

They pair nicely with creamy desserts like vanilla ice cream, fruit‑based sorbets, or even salty snacks like pretzel bites for a sweet‑salty contrast. A simple fruit platter or a bowl of popcorn also complements the fizzy candy.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making frozen gummy bears at home?

A

Common errors include shortening the 24‑hour soak, which prevents the gummies from absorbing enough soda, and over‑freezing, which makes them rock‑hard. Also, sealing the container too tightly during the soak can cause pressure buildup and burst the lid.

technical
Q

Why does this frozen gummy bear recipe use a 24‑hour soak instead of a shorter marination time?

A

The long soak allows the carbonation and flavor of the soda to fully penetrate the gelatin matrix of the gummy bears. A shorter time results in minimal absorption, leaving the gummies unchanged in size and texture.

technical
Q

Can I make frozen gummy bears ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes, you can prepare the gummy‑soda mixture up to two days in advance, keep it sealed at room temperature for the soak, then freeze just before serving. Store the finished frozen gummies in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the frozen gummy bears are done?

A

The gummies should appear slightly swollen, with a glossy surface, and feel firm but not rock‑hard when pressed. They retain their original color, and the soda may give them a subtle sheen.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Patrick Zeinali specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Patrick Zeinali focuses on quick, experimental food hacks and snack‑centric recipes that often use minimal ingredients and simple kitchen tools, appealing to busy home cooks and curious food enthusiasts.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Patrick Zeinali's approach to snack creation differ from other cooking channels?

A

Patrick Zeinali emphasizes ultra‑simple, two‑ingredient experiments and visual transformations, whereas many other channels provide more elaborate, multi‑step dishes. His style is fast‑paced, with a focus on surprising results that can be made with pantry staples.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Chef James FORCED Me to React to These INSANE Chef Showdowns
5

Chef James FORCED Me to React to These INSANE Chef Showdowns

A step‑by‑step guide to making a classic Beef Wellington, inspired by Gordon Ramsay, featuring a rich chestnut‑mushroom duxelles, Parma ham, and golden puff pastry. Perfect for a festive dinner or special occasion.

1 hr 46 minServes 4$27
British
Are These Viral Egg Hacks Actually Good? (Taste Test)
3

Are These Viral Egg Hacks Actually Good? (Taste Test)

A quick keto‑friendly breakfast series that tests three viral fried‑egg hacks: a salty feta‑topped egg on a low‑carb tortilla, a spicy chili‑crisp egg, and a tangy dill‑pickle‑brine egg. Each version is served with sliced avocado for extra creaminess. Perfect for a low‑carb, high‑fat start to the day.

19 minServes 1$19
American (Keto)
These Cottage Cheese Bowls Are Actually Delicious (42g Protein)
19

These Cottage Cheese Bowls Are Actually Delicious (42g Protein)

A trio of high‑protein, low‑carb cottage cheese bowls perfect for keto dieters. One savory hot‑honey garlic chicken bowl, one bright Mediterranean lemon‑herb chicken bowl, and a sweet Japanese cheesecake‑style bowl made with cottage cheese and keto‑friendly extracts.

1 hr 5 minServes 3$42
American (Keto Fusion)
These spicy RICE PAPER chili noodles are INSANE!
4

These spicy RICE PAPER chili noodles are INSANE!

A quick, spicy Asian‑fusion noodle bowl that uses soft rice‑paper sheets as a fun texture contrast. Perfect for using leftovers, this dish combines thin wheat noodles, a garlicky chili sauce, and briefly‑soaked rice paper for a satisfying bite.

30 minServes 2$3
Asian Fusion
These Beefy Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings Are Insane
4

These Beefy Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings Are Insane

Crispy onion rings stuffed with seasoned ground beef and pepper jack cheese, wrapped in two slices of bacon, and served with a tangy buttermilk ranch dip. Made in an air fryer for a quick, low‑carb, keto‑friendly appetizer that feels indulgent yet simple.

58 minServes 4$13
American
Do These Viral Air Fryer Recipes Actually Work?
4

Do These Viral Air Fryer Recipes Actually Work?

A fluffy, high‑protein, flourless and gluten‑free ricotta cake made in the air fryer. With just six simple ingredients—ricotta, eggs, cornstarch, lemon zest, honey, and a pinch of salt—this quick dessert is lightly sweetened, lemon‑bright, and perfect for a low‑carb treat.

45 minServes 4$4
Italian‑American