Gumdrop Squares

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin (5 minutes) - In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the cold water. Let it stand for at least 5 minutes to soften.

Step 2: Create the Sugar Syrup (20 minutes) - In a medium saucepan, bring 3/4 cup of water to a boil over medium heat. Gradually stir in the 2 cups of granulated sugar and continue stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once dissolved, allow the mixture to boil gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Combine and Boil (20 minutes) - Add the bloomed gelatin mixture to the boiling sugar syrup. Stir well to ensure the gelatin is fully incorporated. Reduce the heat slightly to maintain a gentle boil and continue cooking for 15 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Flavor and Color (15 minutes) - Lightly dampen three small, shallow pans or baking dishes with cold water (this will help with unmolding later). Divide the hot gelatin mixture evenly among three heat-proof bowls. Flavor one bowl with peppermint extract and tint it with green food coloring. Flavor the second bowl with lemon extract and tint it with yellow food coloring. Flavor the third bowl with cinnamon oil and tint it with red food coloring. Stir each bowl thoroughly to distribute the flavor and color evenly.

Step 5: Set and Chill (8 hours) - Pour each colored and flavored mixture into its prepared pan. Let the gumdrop mixtures rest at room temperature until slightly cooled, then cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 6-8 hours) to allow them to set completely.

Step 6: Cut and Coat (15 minutes) - Once the gumdrops are firm, turn them out onto a cutting board generously sprinkled with the 3/4 cup of granulated sugar. Use a sharp knife to cut the gumdrops into small squares. Roll each square in the sugar to coat all sides.

Step 7: Final Set (1 hour) - Place the coated gumdrop squares on a wire rack and let them stand for at least an hour to allow the sugar coating to dry and firm up.