Homemade Gummy Vitamins: Batch Turned to Goo – Help!
Hey all! So I tried making my own gummy vitamins with vitamin C powder and gelatin, but they came out like a sticky mess. I used 1 tbsp gelatin, 1/4 cup water, and 2 tsp vitamin C powder. I heated the water and dissolved gelatin, then added powder, poured into molds, and let set in fridge overnight. They never firmed up – just goo. Any tips? Did I need more gelatin or maybe use agar?
Yo, I've been there! Gelatin can be finicky. For 1/4 cup liquid, you might need 2-3 tbsp of gelatin. Also, did you bloom the gelatin in cold water first? That's key – soak it for 5-10 mins, then heat gently. And make sure you don't boil it, that breaks down the structure. I usually do 2 tbsp per 1/4 cup and they set fine. Also, vitamin C powder can mess with gelling – try adding it after the gelatin melts, and maybe use less liquid.
From a retired nurse perspective, I'd also watch the temperature. If it's too hot, it can ruin the gelatin. And don't forget to stirring well – lumps cause weak spots. Also, check the pH – acidic stuff like vitamin C can hinder setting. Maybe add a pinch of baking soda? Or use agar if you want a firmer set – but then you need to boil it. Last time I used agar, I did 1 tsp per cup of liquid, but it's different. For gelatin, I usually do 2 tbsp per 1/4 cup, but that's for a firm gummy. Also, maybe let them set at room temp instead of fridge – sometimes too cold can make them gooey? Actually no, fridge helps, but maybe your molds were too small? Just a thought.
Thanks for the tips! I didn't bloom the gelatin – just tossed it in hot water. I'll try that next time with more gelatin. Also, I used fresh kiwi juice for flavor – I heard that can break down gelatin? Should I skip that? I'm aiming for a soft gummy, but not too soft. Maybe I'll try without kiwi and just use vitamin powder and a bit of honey.
Oh yeah, kiwi has enzymes that destroy gelatin! Pineapple too. Avoid those or cook them first. That's probably your main issue. Try using flavors like strawberry or orange, or just stick with the powder. Also, if you want a softer chew, you can reduce gelatin a bit. But bloom it first! And let me know how it goes!