Save to Pinterest The afternoon sunlight hit the kitchen counter just right, making the fruit roll-ups glow like stained glass. My niece had been begging to make something together, something colorful and fun, preferably involving zero actual cooking. We raided the candy drawer and ended up with this ridiculous combination that somehow became the hit of her birthday party.
I made these for a game night with friends last month, expecting them to be ignored in favor of the actual dessert I had planned. By the end of the evening, the proper dessert was half eaten but the candy roll-ups had vanished completely. Someone kept going back to the kitchen for just one more.
Ingredients
- 4 fruit-flavored roll-ups: The flexible texture is crucial here, so avoid any that seem dry or cracked. Different brands stretch differently, and some separate into layers more easily than others.
- 1 cup assorted gummy candies: Mix sizes and shapes for the most interesting cross sections. Bears work well, but worms and fruit slices create beautiful patterns when sliced.
Instructions
- Lay the foundation:
- Unroll each fruit roll-up carefully on parchment paper, working slowly to prevent tearing. They stick to everything, so the paper is not optional.
- Build the rainbow:
- Line up your gummy candies along one edge, packing them tightly but not overflowing. Imagine how they will look when sliced.
- Roll with confidence:
- Start rolling from the candy edge, applying gentle but firm pressure. Go slowly and keep the roll tight.
- Reveal the magic:
- Use a sharp knife to slice into one-inch wheels. Saw gently rather than pressing down to keep the shape intact.
Save to Pinterest My daughter now requests these for every school event and celebration. They have become our signature contribution, the thing people ask about before they even say hello.
Mix and Match
Combining unexpected flavors creates the most interesting results. Pair sour apple roll-ups with sweet gummy bears, or tropical fruit roll-ups with sour worms for contrast.
Temperature Matters
Cold roll-ups crack instead of bending, while warm ones become impossibly sticky. Let them sit at room temperature for about five minutes before starting.
Presentation Ideas
Arrange the pinwheels on a white platter in concentric circles by color. The visual impact is worth the extra minute of arrangement.
- Use a damp paper towel to wipe your knife between slices.
- Work quickly once the roll-ups are at room temperature.
- Have your serving container ready before you start slicing.
Save to Pinterest Simple, sweet, and surprisingly satisfying. Sometimes the most basic ideas bring the most joy.
Recipe FAQs
- → What candies work best for these pinwheels?
Use a mix of gummy bears, worms, or fruit-shaped gummies for varied texture and flavor.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate up to one day to maintain firmness without losing chewiness.
- → How do I ensure the roll-ups stay together?
Press gently when rolling to secure gummies inside and slice carefully with a sharp knife.
- → Any tips for adding extra flavor?
Sprinkle a pinch of citric acid or sour sugar before rolling for a tangy twist.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarian diets?
Check gummy candy ingredients as some contain gelatin; vegetarian alternatives are available.