Gumdrop facts for kids
Fruit flavored gumdrops
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| Type | Confectionery |
|---|---|
| Main ingredients | pectin, granulated sugar, flavoring |
| Variations | Spice drops |
Gumdrops are a type of chewy, colorful candy. They are often shaped like small domes. Many gumdrops are coated in sugar. They come in many fruit and spice flavors. The ones with spice flavors are sometimes called spice drops.
The Sweet History of Gumdrops
Gumdrops first appeared in the United States in the 1800s. Some people say they were around as early as 1801. Back then, they might have been small, hard sweets. These early candies were also made from fruit gelatin.
The name "gumdrop" was first seen in print in 1859. It was in an advertisement for a candy shop. This shop was owned by George Julier in Decatur, Illinois. By that time, gumdrops were chewy candies. They were similar to the gummy candies we know today. Some were also made with potato starch.
One of the oldest types of gumdrops still made are "spice" gumdrops. They use traditional spices for flavor. These include clove, anise, cinnamon, and spearmint.
How Are Gumdrops Used?
Gumdrops are often used in baking. They are great for decorating cakes. Around Christmas, people use them to decorate gingerbread houses. They add a colorful, sweet touch to holiday treats.
Gumdrops in Pop Culture
Gumdrops have appeared in many fun places!
The Apollo 9 Command Module was nicknamed "Gumdrop." This was the part of the spacecraft where the astronauts lived.
The popular board game Candy Land features gumdrops. Players can travel through "Gumdrop Pass." They can also visit "Gumdrop Mountain."
The phrase "goody gumdrops" is an excited expression. It was first written in a 1959 novel. The book was called Strike Out Where Not Applicable. It was written by Nicolas Freeling.
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