Gumdrop Balls
Delightful gumdrop balls coated in coconut, offering a chewy, nutty treat with colorful fruity flavors. Perfect for parties, holidays, or a sweet snack anytime.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour the contents of the can of condensed milk into the top of a double boiler.
- Add salt and cook until thickened.
- Add corn flakes, finely crushed (measure before crushing).
- Add gumdrops, nuts, and flavoring.
- Take out by teaspoonful and roll in coconut.
- Let stand on waxed paper until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter flavor, you can substitute the nuts with chocolate chips or dried fruit. If you're looking for a crunchier texture, consider using Rice Krispies instead of corn flakes. When cooking the condensed milk, keep stirring to prevent sticking and burning. Adjust the amount of gumdrops based on your preference for sweetness. This recipe is reminiscent of American recipes like Nestle'S Congo Squares.
Serving Suggestions
Serve gumdrop balls as a festive treat at parties or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with coffee or hot chocolate, making them a delightful addition to dessert trays. For a fun twist, consider drizzling them with melted chocolate or adding a sprinkle of colored sugar for a festive look. They also make a great snack for kids.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gumdrop balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To refresh their texture, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as it can alter their consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gumdrop Balls contains roughly 1428 calories, with 24g protein, 183g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (49% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 788mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cereal instead of corn flakes?
Yes, you can substitute corn flakes with other cereals like Rice Krispies or Cheerios for different textures. Just make sure to crush them before adding to the mixture to maintain the right consistency. Each cereal will impart its unique flavor, making your gumdrop balls a little different each time.
What can I use instead of condensed milk?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use coconut milk or a vegan condensed milk alternative made from cashews. Just ensure it's thick enough to bind the ingredients well. This substitution can also enhance the flavor profile, making it a great option for those following vegetarian recipes.
How can I make these gumdrop balls less sticky?
To reduce stickiness, you can lightly coat your hands with powdered sugar or cooking spray before rolling the mixture into balls. Additionally, chilling the mixture in the fridge for about 30 minutes before rolling can help firm it up, making it easier to handle while shaping into balls.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).