These Tootsie Donut Fruitcake Gummies are pure fun in candy form! They’re chewy, colorful, and bursting with nostalgic flavors—sweet fruity notes mixed with little hints of chocolatey donut goodness. This is one of those recipes that instantly becomes a kid favorite, especially because it feels like a treat you’d find at a candy shop but is made right at home. I love making these with families because kids can help stir, pour, and (of course) taste-test along the way. They’re perfect for holidays, party favors, or just a playful weekend kitchen project 🍬✨

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🛒 What You’ll Need

• 1 cup fruit juice (cherry or mixed berry works best)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup mini fruitcake-style mixed fruit (cherries, pineapple, orange peel)
• ¼ cup mini chocolate donut pieces (or chocolate cake crumbs)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for dusting molds, optional)

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👩‍🍳 Pro Tips

1. Use silicone molds – Gummies pop out easily and are perfect for little helpers.
2. Bloom the gelatin properly – This ensures smooth, bouncy gummies.
3. Tiny mix-ins matter – Chop fruit and donut pieces small so gummies set evenly.
4. Kid-friendly flavors – Cherry or berry juice gives that classic candy vibe kids love.
5. Light oil spray – Lightly oil molds if skipping the sugar dusting.

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🧰 Tools You’ll Need

• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Silicone gummy or donut molds
• Spoon or small pouring cup

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🔄 Substitutions & Variations

• No donut pieces? Use chocolate chips or brownie crumbs.
• Different flavor: Swap juice for apple, grape, or orange juice.
• Holiday twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
• Vegan option: Use agar-agar (note texture will be firmer).

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⏱ Make-Ahead Tips

• Gummies can be made 2–3 days ahead.
• Keep chilled until ready to serve.
• Great for prepping party treats in advance.

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🍬 How to Make Tootsie Donut Fruitcake Gummies

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

Pour fruit juice and lemon juice into a saucepan. Sprinkle gelatin evenly over the liquid and let sit for 5 minutes.

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Step 2: Heat the Mixture

Place saucepan over low heat. Whisk gently until gelatin dissolves completely. Do not boil.

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Step 3: Sweeten and Flavor

Whisk in honey and vanilla extract until fully combined.

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Step 4: Add the Mix-Ins

Remove from heat. Stir in mini fruitcake mixed fruit and mini chocolate donut pieces.

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Step 5: Fill the Molds

Lightly dust molds with sugar if desired. Spoon mixture into silicone molds.

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Step 6: Chill and Set

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set. Gently pop gummies out of molds.

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🥡 Leftovers & Storage Tips

• Store gummies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking.
• Keep chilled for best texture.

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💖 Final Thoughts

These Tootsie Donut Fruitcake Gummies are whimsical, chewy, and guaranteed to bring smiles—especially from kids who love candy with a story behind it. I hope you have so much fun making (and eating!) them together. If you give them a try, leave a comment and tell me how they turned out or what flavors you used. Happy gummy-making! 🍭😊