DIY Kool-Aid Licorice Ropes Recipe

Save this recipe on:

Bright, chewy, and bursting with flavor, these DIY Kool-Aid Licorice Ropes are a colorful twist on a childhood classic. Made with just a few ingredients and endless flavor options, they’re a fun treat to make for parties, holidays, or anytime you want to brighten someone’s day with a pop of color and fruity sweetness.

With their eye-catching swirl and tangy sugar coating, these homemade licorice ropes not only taste amazing but also look like they came straight from a candy shop. Whether you’re crafting them for gifts or a weekend project with the kids, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles.

---

What Kind of Kool-Aid Should I Use?

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can use any unsweetened Kool-Aid flavor you like—grape, cherry, orange, blue raspberry, lemon-lime, or strawberry. Each flavor lends its own vibrant hue and tangy-sweet punch to the ropes. Want a custom flavor combo? Mix and match the powders for unique blends.

---

Ingredients for the DIY Kool-Aid Licorice Ropes Recipe

• Gelatin – Essential for that firm, chewy licorice texture.
• Sugar – Provides the sweetness and forms the candy base.
• Corn syrup – Adds a smooth, glossy finish and prevents crystallization.
• Unsweetened Kool-Aid powder – For color and bold fruity flavor.
• Water – Used to hydrate the gelatin and bring the mixture together.
• Citric acid (optional) – Enhances the tartness and gives a tangy candy-shop edge.
• Powdered sugar or granulated sugar – To roll the finished ropes and prevent sticking.

---

How To Make the DIY Kool-Aid Licorice Ropes Recipe

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over half of the water and let it sit for 5 minutes. This blooming process is essential to achieve the chewy texture we love in licorice.

Step 2: Create the Syrup Base

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the remaining water, sugar, and corn syrup. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Add the Flavor

Remove the syrup from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Then, mix in the Kool-Aid powder and citric acid (if using). Stir until everything is well combined and the mixture is vibrant and fragrant.

Step 4: Shape the Ropes

Let the mixture cool slightly until thickened. Pour into a piping bag or squeeze bottle, then pipe long ropes onto a parchment-lined tray. Twist them slightly for that signature licorice swirl.

Step 5: Set and Coat

Let the ropes sit at room temperature for several hours or until firm. Once set, roll them in powdered or granulated sugar to keep them from sticking and add a sparkly finish.

---

How to Serve and Store Your Kool-Aid Licorice Ropes

These chewy, colorful ropes are best enjoyed fresh but keep well if stored correctly. Serve them twisted in bundles or cut into bite-sized pieces for party trays, lunchbox treats, or sweet snack jars. They’re perfect for birthdays, bake sales, or as a cheerful homemade gift.

To store, place the licorice ropes in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay chewy and fresh for up to two weeks. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator, though this might slightly firm up the texture.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweetened Kool-Aid?

It’s best to use unsweetened Kool-Aid to control the sweetness level. Sweetened versions can make the candy too sugary and affect the texture.

Can I make these without corn syrup?

You can try substituting with glucose syrup or golden syrup, but the consistency might vary slightly. Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization and keeps the texture smooth.

How long do they need to set?

Let them set at room temperature for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight for best results.

Can I freeze licorice ropes?

Freezing is not recommended as it can make them sticky or overly tough when thawed.

What if I don’t have citric acid?

You can skip it or add a little lemon juice for a touch of tartness. Citric acid gives that classic tangy candy flavor but isn’t essential.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales well. Just make sure to work quickly when piping the ropes, as the mixture thickens as it cools.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: