Homemade Bubble Gum Recipe

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup gum base
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup corn syrup
• 1/2 tsp flavoring (bubblegum or fruit-flavored, depending on your preference)
• 1/4 cup warm water (for easier mixing)
• Extra powdered sugar (for dusting and preventing stickiness)

Instructions

1. Melt the gum base: Start by placing the gum base into a microwave-safe bowl. The gum base is the foundation of your bubble gum, and it’s what gives it that chewy texture. Microwave it in 10-second intervals, stirring in between, until it has completely melted. This process should take about 30 seconds to 1 minute in total, depending on the strength of your microwave. Be careful not to overheat the gum base, as it can become too stiff and difficult to work with. The gum base should be soft and pliable when fully melted.
2. Add the corn syrup and warm water: Once the gum base is melted, stir in the corn syrup and warm water. The corn syrup adds sweetness and helps give the gum its chewy consistency, while the warm water helps make the mixture more manageable. Stir until everything is well combined. If the mixture becomes too thick to stir, you can microwave it for an additional 10-15 seconds to soften it slightly, but be sure not to overheat it again.
3. Incorporate the powdered sugar: Gradually sift in the powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, stirring after each addition. The powdered sugar will help thicken the gum and give it the structure it needs to become a solid, moldable mass. Be patient during this step and mix thoroughly to prevent clumps from forming. As you add the sugar, the texture will begin to change from a sticky liquid to a more dough-like consistency.
4. Flavor your gum: Once your mixture has thickened, add the flavoring of your choice. You can use bubblegum flavoring for a classic taste or experiment with fruit flavors such as cherry, strawberry, or watermelon. Add 1/2 teaspoon of flavoring to the mixture, and stir well to distribute the flavor evenly throughout the gum. If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a few extra drops, but keep in mind that a little goes a long way.
5. Knead the gum: Once the gum mixture has thickened and the flavor is evenly mixed in, it’s time to knead it. Dust a clean surface with powdered sugar to prevent the gum from sticking. Turn the gum mixture onto the surface and begin kneading it with your hands. The gum will still be quite warm, so be careful not to burn yourself. Knead it for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the gum is too sticky, dust it with more powdered sugar, but be careful not to add too much, as it can make the gum too stiff.
6. Shape and cut the gum: Once the gum is kneaded to a smooth, stretchy consistency, divide it into 12 equal portions (or more, depending on your desired size). Roll each portion into a small ball or log, then flatten it slightly with your hands. If you prefer, you can roll the gum out on a surface and use a knife to cut it into strips. Each piece should be small enough to fit comfortably in your mouth, and the texture should be firm yet chewy.
7. Let the gum cool: Place the shaped pieces of bubble gum on a clean sheet of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking to anything. Allow them to cool and set for about 30 minutes. This step ensures that the gum firm up to its final, chewy texture.
8. Enjoy your homemade bubble gum: Once the gum has cooled and firmed up, it’s ready to enjoy! You can store the pieces in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 1-2 weeks. If you plan to give them as a gift or share with friends, wrap each piece individually in wax paper for easy handling and a professional look.
   

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