Description
Craving a quirky, tangy treat that’s sure to surprise and delight? Say hello to Dill Pickle Gummy Worms! These unique gummies combine the bold, briny flavor of dill pickles with the chewy texture of gummy candy, creating a conversation-starting snack that’s perfect for adventurous eaters. Ideal for parties, prank treats, or just a fun kitchen experiment, these gummy worms are as easy to make as they are unforgettable.
Ingredients
For the Gummy Mixture
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Dill Pickle Juice (1 cup, from a jar of pickles): Provides the tangy, briny base flavor that defines the gummies.
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Granulated Sugar (¼ cup): Balances the tartness with a touch of sweetness.
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Unflavored Gelatin (2 tbsp): Sets the gummies, giving them their chewy texture.
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Dill Weed (1 tsp, finely crushed): Enhances the pickle flavor with herbal notes.
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Garlic Powder (½ tsp): Adds a subtle savory depth, mimicking classic pickle seasoning.
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Green Food Coloring (optional): Intensifies the gummy worms’ pickle-like appearance.
For Shaping
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Gummy Worm-Shaped Candy Molds: Create the fun, wiggly shape; small silicone molds work if worm molds are unavailable.
Substitutions and Variations
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Pickle Juice: Use juice from spicy pickles for a kick or sweet pickle juice for a milder flavor.
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Sugar: Omit for a fully savory gummy, or increase to ⅓ cup for a sweeter taste.
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Gelatin: Use agar-agar (2 tbsp) for a vegan version, adjusting cooking time per package instructions.
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Dill Weed: Replace with ½ tsp dried dill or omit for a simpler pickle flavor.
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Food Coloring: Skip for a natural, pale green hue, or use natural food coloring like spirulina.
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Molds: Use any small silicone mold (like stars or hearts) if gummy worm molds are unavailable.
Instructions
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Prepare the Gelatin Base:
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In a small saucepan, sprinkle 2 tbsp unflavored gelatin evenly over 1 cup dill pickle juice.
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Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom, allowing the gelatin to soften and absorb the liquid to prevent clumping.
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Heat the Mixture:
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Place the saucepan over low heat and stir continuously with a whisk or spoon until the gelatin is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth (about 2–3 minutes).
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Add ¼ cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp finely crushed dill weed, ½ tsp garlic powder, and a few drops of green food coloring (if using).
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Stir until the sugar dissolves and the ingredients are well combined, about 1–2 minutes. Do not boil.
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Fill the Molds:
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Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly (1–2 minutes) to make pouring easier.
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Using a small dropper, syringe, or spoon, carefully pour the warm gummy mixture into gummy worm-shaped candy molds.
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Tap the molds gently on the counter to release air bubbles and ensure even filling.
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Set the Gummies:
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Place the filled molds in the refrigerator and chill for 1–2 hours, or until the gummies are firm and fully set.
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Test by gently pressing; they should feel solid and pop out easily.
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Store and Serve:
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Gently pop the gummy worms out of the molds.
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
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Serve chilled for a tangy, chewy treat that’s sure to spark conversation.
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Cooking Tips
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Even Gelatin Bloom: Sprinkle gelatin evenly over the pickle juice to avoid clumps; don’t stir until it’s bloomed.
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Low Heat: Heat gently to prevent scorching or degrading the gelatin’s setting ability.
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Clean Molds: Lightly spray molds with non-stick spray if sticking is a concern, though silicone molds typically release easily.
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Quick Pouring: Work quickly when filling molds, as the mixture begins to set as it cools.