Nara Smith's Homemade Strawberry Bubble Gum

Steps

1. 1

   Place 1/3 cup of gum base pellets into a microwave-safe glass bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the base is completely melted, fluid, and smooth. This typically takes 1.5 to 2 minutes total.

   Start 2-minute timer
2. 2

   To the melted gum base, add 2 tablespoons of light corn syrup, 1 teaspoon of vegetable glycerin, 1/2 teaspoon of strawberry extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of citric acid. Add 1-2 drops of red food coloring if desired.

3. 3

   Stir the mixture vigorously with a metal spoon or silicone spatula until the liquids are fully incorporated into the gum base. The mixture will become very thick, sticky, and elastic.

4. 4

   Sift approximately 1/2 cup of powdered sugar onto a clean work surface or a silicone baking mat. Create a well in the center of the sugar mound.

5. 5

   Carefully pour the hot gum mixture into the center of the powdered sugar well. Use a bench scraper or spatula to fold the sugar from the edges into the center of the gum.

6. 6

   Once the gum has cooled enough to handle but is still warm, begin kneading it with your hands. Gradually incorporate the remaining 1/2 cup of powdered sugar as you knead.

7. 7

   Continue kneading for 5-10 minutes until the gum has absorbed the sugar and is no longer sticky. It should have a smooth, uniform consistency and hold its shape.

   Start 5-minute timer
8. 8

   Roll the gum into long, thin ropes about 1/2 inch in diameter on a surface lightly dusted with powdered sugar.

9. 9

   Use kitchen shears or a sharp knife to cut the ropes into bite-sized pieces. Toss the pieces in a bowl with a little extra powdered sugar to prevent them from sticking together.

10. 10

    Wrap individual pieces in small squares of wax paper or parchment paper for storage. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.