Gumdrops are a unique candy, consisting of a gelatin texture that is somewhat similar to Jello, but a bit more dense. Gumdrops are typically flavored with fruits and spices and are most often eaten during the winter months. Festive and fun, a bag of gumdrops will typically include candy colors such as red, orange, purple, white, green and yellow.
National Gumdrop Day celebrates all things related to gumdrops, including its mysterious history, and hopes to encourage everyone to eat them and enjoy them on this day.
Learn About National Gumdrop Day
National Gumdrop Day is a day that we can all look forward to; an opportunity to indulge in as many tasty gumdrops as we wish! For those people who have never had a gumdrop before, it’s time to stop missing out! These candies are chewy, colorful, and best of all, tasty!
It’s possible to choose from a wide range of flavors as well. Made using gelatin which is then coated in sugar, gumdrop flavors are typically indicated by their corresponding colors. Most people tend to go for the fruity variety, but there are even spicy gumdrops too. While they taste great on their own, they are also ideal when used for decorating baked goods, gingerbread houses, and the like. With a sweet that is as exciting and versatile as this one, it is only right that there is a day when people all over the world can celebrate this yummy little confection!
History of National Gumdrop Day
So, what is the history behind the gumdrop and when did it start? Gumdrops were believed to be invented by Percy Trusdale in 1801, however, many still debate about the history of gumdrops and how they came to be.
Gumdrops, the brightly colored pectin candy shaped like domes, are also called spice drops for the variety of spices they contain, such as cinnamon and clove. The term “gumdrops” was first documented during the 1850s, when it appeared in the Illinois State Chronicle as it reported on a candy shop, owned by George Julier.
No matter who invented them, gumdrops are certainly delicious, and the most popular flavors for gumdrops are cherry, orange, lemon, grape, and licorice. Gumdrops are also a candy that’s typically seen during Christmas time due to its use of spices. Spices such as cinnamon, allspice, licorice, clove, and mint are typically used during this time.
What's your favorite flavor?
Back in the day mine was black licorice or Orange or Cherry. Funny how it goes full circle. I can't eat them now but all of a sudden I am now taking Metamucil gummies that totally look and taste just like a gumdrop.
