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Sprite & Jolly Rancher Moonshine Shards

A nostalgic, playful treat combining fizzy Sprite, sweet Jolly Ranchers, and optional vodka for a fun, colorful, and easy-to-make candy shard perfect for parties or gifts.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Party Treat, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Moonshine Shards
  • 1 cup Sprite soda provides light citrusy sparkle and fizz
  • 1 cup granulated sugar sweetens and creates candy texture
  • 1 cup Jolly Rancher candies chopped, any flavor, about pea-sized chunks
  • 1 tbsp unflavored gelatin to set shards firm yet chewy
  • 1/4 cup water to bloom gelatin
  • 1/2 cup vodka optional, adds moonshine punch

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • Small Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Microwave
  • Shallow Baking Dish or Silicone Mold
  • Knife or Cookie Cutters

Method
 

  1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine Sprite and granulated sugar. Stir gently but thoroughly until sugar dissolves completely.
  2. Step 2: In a small bowl, sprinkle unflavored gelatin over water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Microwave the bloomed gelatin for 15-20 seconds until fully dissolved and smooth. Stir again.
  4. Step 4: Pour dissolved gelatin into the Sprite and sugar mixture, stirring well to combine.
  5. Step 5: If using vodka, add it now and mix thoroughly.
  6. Step 6: Gently fold in chopped Jolly Ranchers until evenly distributed.
  7. Step 7: Pour mixture into a shallow baking dish or silicone mold, spreading evenly with a spatula.
  8. Step 8: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until firm.
  9. Step 9: Remove from fridge and cut into shards or shapes using a knife or cookie cutters. If using a mold, carefully pop out shapes.
  10. Step 10: Store shards in an airtight container in the refrigerator; best consumed within a week.

Notes

Substitute lemon-lime soda or club soda for a different fizz flavor. Use flavored gelatin or different candies like Starburst or Skittles for variety. Add a splash of lemon or lime juice for non-alcoholic versions. Infuse water with mint or basil for a fresh twist. Add cayenne or chili powder for a spicy kick. Use silicone molds for fun shapes and easy removal.