Sour Watermelon Fruit Chews (Printer-Friendly)

Chewy, tangy watermelon treats with a sour sugar coating—perfect for sharing or enjoying as a sweet snack.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fruit Base

01 - 1 cup seedless watermelon, pureed and strained
02 - 2 tablespoons lemon juice
03 - 1/4 cup light corn syrup

→ Gelling & Sweetening

04 - 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin powder
05 - 2/3 cup granulated sugar

→ Sour Coating

06 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
07 - 1 tablespoon citric acid powder

# How to Make It:

01 - Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the surface to prevent sticking.
02 - In a small saucepan, mix watermelon puree, corn syrup, and lemon juice. Stir thoroughly to combine all liquids.
03 - Sprinkle gelatin powder evenly over the mixture. Let stand for 5 minutes to allow the gelatin to hydrate and bloom.
04 - Add granulated sugar to the saucepan. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until gelatin and sugar completely dissolve. Do not allow the mixture to boil.
05 - Pour the hot mixture into the prepared baking pan. Smooth the surface with a spatula and let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.
06 - Refrigerate the pan uncovered for 2 hours or until the candy is completely set and firm to the touch.
07 - In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup granulated sugar and citric acid powder. Mix well to distribute evenly.
08 - Cut the set candy into small squares using a sharp knife. Roll each piece in the sour sugar mixture, pressing gently to coat all sides evenly.
09 - Place finished chews in an airtight container, separating layers with wax paper to prevent sticking.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The combination of real watermelon puree and citric acid creates an authentic sweet tart experience you cant buy in stores
  • These chews have that perfect bounce between soft candy and chewy taffy that keeps you reaching for more
02 -
  • If you don't strain your watermelon puree thoroughly, youll end up with weird fibrous bits in your chews
  • Letting the gelatin bloom properly is non negotiable, or youll get grainy candy
03 -
  • Coat the chews immediately after cutting while theyre still slightly tacky
  • Work quickly once you start coating, as the sugar mixture clumps if it sits too long