1-First Step: Prep and mise en place* Coat an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray. If you are using a metal pan, chill it briefly in the fridge to help the mixture set faster.* Measure and have ready: 1 cup granulated sugar, 3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce, one 3 oz package cherry-flavored gelatin or berry blue for variety, 2 envelopes unflavored gelatin, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice.* Dust a cutting board generously with granulated sugar and set out star-shaped cookie cutters that have been lightly coated in sugar to prevent sticking.

2-Second Step: Combine ingredients* In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce, the flavored gelatin packet, 2 envelopes unflavored gelatin, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Stir gently so the dry gelatins begin to absorb liquid.* Let the mixture stand for 1 minute so the gelatins can bloom.

3-Third Step: Cook and set* Place the pan over medium heat and bring to a boil while stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Once it reaches a boil, continue to stir and boil for 1 minute. This brief boil dissolves the sugar and activates the gel structure.* Immediately pour the hot mixture into the prepared 8-inch square baking dish, spreading evenly.* Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until firmly set.

4-Fourth Step: Cut and dry* When set, dust a cutting board generously with granulated sugar.* Loosen the edges of the set slab with a spatula and invert the pan onto the sugar-covered board.* Use small, sharp star-shaped cookie cutters dusted with sugar to stamp out shapes. Collect scraps to re-shape later into smaller treats.

5-Final Step: Dry, sugar-coat and store* Place cut gumdrops on sugar-covered parchment or wax paper, spacing them slightly apart.* Dry them at room temperature for 8 hours or until they are slightly sticky to the touch but hold their shape. In low-humidity climates 4-6 hours can be enough; high humidity may require overnight drying.* Roll each piece in granulated sugar to coat and place in an airtight container for storage.