These are not your average gummy bears. Candy Cane Fireball Gummies are glossy, chewy, boozy bites of holiday magic, shaped like mini candy canes and bursting with bold, spicy cinnamon and refreshing peppermint flavor. They’re made using Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, giving them a warm, cozy heat that pairs beautifully with the cool peppermint swirl in the white layer.

Unlike store-bought gummy candy, these are made from real gelatin, giving them that perfect bounce. They’re finished with a crushed candy cane dusting for sparkle, crunch, and a beautiful festive look — exactly like in the photo above.

And the best part? They’re easy to make, fun to customize, and way more exciting than any ordinary Christmas cookie.

Why You’ll Love This Holiday Gummy Recipe

There are about a million reasons to love these candy cane cuties, but let’s break it down:

They’re a Showstopper. These glossy, swirly, candy cane–shaped gummies are almost too pretty to eat. Almost.
Packed with Flavor. The spicy warmth of cinnamon whisky + sweet peppermint = a match made in holiday heaven.

Make-Ahead Magic. You can make them days in advance and they still taste amazing.
Grown-Up Approved. Finally, a holiday candy that’s not for the kids!
Perfect for Gifting. Wrap them in a little treat bag with a ribbon — instant DIY holiday gift.

Simple Ingredients. Nothing too fancy or complicated.

The Flavors: Spicy Meets Minty

The real genius of this recipe is the flavor pairing. Fireball Whisky is sweet, smooth, and hits with that unmistakable cinnamon burn. It’s festive, warm, and totally in season. On the flip side, the white peppermint layer adds a creamy coolness, thanks to condensed milk and peppermint extract.

This balance — the heat and the chill — creates a bite that tingles in the best way. It’s like Christmas in your mouth.

📝 Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what goes into making these holiday gummies.

🔴 Red Fireball Layer

¾ cup Fireball Cinnamon Whisky – This is the star of the show. Feel free to sneak a sip.
¼ cup apple juice – Adds a touch of sweetness and helps mellow the alcohol.
2½ tbsp unflavored gelatin – This makes the gummies firm enough to hold their shape.

2 tbsp granulated sugar – Just enough to sweeten the bite.

⚪ White Peppermint Layer

½ cup sweetened condensed milk – Makes it rich, creamy, and beautifully opaque.
½ cup water – Balances the thickness of the condensed milk.

2 tbsp unflavored gelatin – For that same gummy texture.
½ tsp peppermint extract – Gives that cool peppermint punch.

❄️ Candy Cane Finish

Crushed candy canes – For rolling the gummies at the end. Adds sparkle, crunch, and extra minty flavor.

🧪 What You’ll Need: Tools & Equipment

Here’s what you’ll want on hand before you start:

Candy cane–shaped silicone molds – You must have this for the iconic look.
Nonstick spray – So they release easily.
Small saucepan (x2) – One for each layer.
Dropper or squeeze bottle – This helps you fill the molds without mess.
Toothpicks – For swirling the colors.
Measuring spoons & cups
Fridge space – They need time to chill and set.

🥣 How to Make Candy Cane Fireball Gummies – Step-by-Step

Let’s walk through this festive gummy-making journey together. You don’t need to be a candy expert — just follow along.

1️⃣ Prepare Your Molds

Spray your candy cane silicone molds very lightly with nonstick spray.
Use a paper towel to dab off any excess — too much spray can make the gummies greasy.

Set molds on a baking tray so they’re easy to transfer to the fridge later.

2️⃣ Make the Red Fireball Layer

In a saucepan, combine Fireball and apple juice.
Sprinkle gelatin evenly over the top (do not stir yet). Let it bloom for 5 minutes — this helps it dissolve smoothly.
Turn the heat to low and gently stir until the gelatin fully dissolves.

Stir in the sugar until it’s completely dissolved.
Be careful not to let it boil — that could cook off the alcohol!
Once smooth and glossy, remove from heat.

3️⃣ Make the White Peppermint Layer

In a separate saucepan, combine condensed milk and water.
Sprinkle gelatin on top, let it bloom 5 minutes.
Heat gently and stir until the gelatin dissolves.
Remove from heat, then add the peppermint extract.
Let it cool slightly so it doesn’t melt the red layer when poured.

4️⃣ Create the Candy Cane Swirl

Now the fun part — layering!

Use your dropper or squeeze bottle to fill each mold about ⅓ full with the red Fireball layer.

Chill for 10 minutes until just set.
Add a layer of the white peppermint mixture.
Then finish with the remaining red mixture.
Use a toothpick to swirl gently and create that iconic red-and-white candy cane look.

5️⃣ Chill & Set

Carefully transfer your tray of molds to the refrigerator.
Let them set for 4–6 hours, or even better, overnight.
The longer they chill, the firmer and bouncier they’ll be.

6️⃣ Candy Cane Finish: Add the Sparkle

Once your gummies are fully set:

Gently unmold them — the silicone should make this easy.
Roll or sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
The sticky surface picks up the candy, giving them that sparkly crunch.
Place on a serving tray or in an airtight container.

💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Gummies

Let’s face it — gummies are simple to make, but they’re not always perfect on the first go. Here are some pro-level tips to help your Candy Cane Fireball Gummies turn out glossy, firm, and downright delicious every single time.

Blooming the Gelatin Is Key – Don’t rush this step! Letting the gelatin sit for 5 full minutes on top of the liquid before heating allows it to “bloom,” or soften, ensuring it melts smoothly without clumps.
Low and Slow Heat – Boiling is the enemy of alcohol-based gummies. Keep the heat low to prevent alcohol from evaporating and to avoid rubbery texture.

Cool Between Layers – Make sure each layer is set before adding the next, or they’ll bleed into each other. A quick 10-minute chill is usually enough.
Don’t Over-Swirl – A light toothpick swirl creates that iconic peppermint look. If you overdo it, you’ll just end up with pink.
Keep Them Cold – These gummies stay freshest when stored in the fridge. If they warm up, they can get sticky or too soft.

🧪 Troubleshooting Common Gummy Issues

Not every batch turns out flawless, especially on the first try. Here’s how to fix the most common problems:

Problem	Cause	Fix
Gummies are too soft or sticky	Not enough gelatin or didn’t chill long enough	Use the full amount of gelatin and chill 6+ hours
White and red layers mixed too much	Poured too early or layers too hot	Let each layer cool slightly and set before adding next
Gummies didn’t release from the mold	No nonstick spray or too soft	Lightly spray molds next time; chill longer
Flavor is too strong or alcoholic	Too much Fireball	Swap part of the whisky for juice next time
Not swirly enough	Didn’t use toothpick or overfilled mold	Swirl gently with a toothpick before final chill

🍸 Can I Make These Without Alcohol?

Yes, absolutely! If you want to make a non-alcoholic version (or kid-friendly), just swap the Fireball whisky with a cinnamon-flavored syrup or red-hot candy infusion:

Alternative: Use cinnamon red hot candy syrup or steep red hot candies in apple juice until spicy.

Keep the rest of the steps the same — just omit the alcohol.
You’ll still get the spicy cinnamon and peppermint swirl, but without the booze.

This is great if you’re hosting a party with both kids and adults and want to make two versions.

🎄 Candy Cane Fireball Gummies: Bold, Boozy, and Full of Holiday Spirit 🎄

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Author: Lora
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: ~6 hours 30 minutes
Category: Adult Desserts • Holiday Treats • No-Bake Candy

Print Recipe

Description

🎄🥃 A bold little holiday indulgence where spicy cinnamon warmth meets cool peppermint magic. These glossy, candy cane–style gummies feel festive, playful, and just a little mischievous — the kind of grown-up treat that always gets whispered about at holiday gatherings. ❄️✨

Ingredients

Scale

Red Cinnamon Layer 🔥

¾ cup Fireball Cinnamon Whisky
¼ cup apple juice
2½ tbsp unflavored gelatin
2 tbsp granulated sugar

White Peppermint Layer ❄️

½ cup sweetened condensed milk
½ cup water
2 tbsp unflavored gelatin
½ tsp peppermint extract

Finish ✨

Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Lightly grease candy cane silicone molds with nonstick spray and set aside. ⏱️ 2 minutes
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine Fireball whisky and apple juice. Sprinkle gelatin evenly over the liquid and let bloom. ⏱️ 5 minutes

Warm the mixture gently, stirring constantly until gelatin fully dissolves. Do not boil. Stir in sugar until smooth, then remove from heat. ⏱️ 5 minutes 🔥
In a separate saucepan, combine condensed milk and water. Sprinkle gelatin over the surface and let bloom. ⏱️ 5 minutes
Heat gently, stirring until completely dissolved and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract. ⏱️ 5 minutes ❄️

Fill molds about one-third full with the red cinnamon layer and refrigerate until just set. ⏱️ 10 minutes
Add a layer of the white peppermint mixture, then top with remaining red layer. Gently swirl with a toothpick for a candy cane effect. ⏱️ 3 minutes
Refrigerate until fully firm and set. ⏱️ 4–6 hours
Carefully unmold gummies and lightly roll in crushed candy canes for sparkle and crunch. ⏱️ 2 minutes ✨

Notes

These gummies are meant strictly for adults — the Fireball flavor stays bold and present even after setting.

The contrast between spicy cinnamon and cool peppermint makes them feel extra festive and memorable at holiday gatherings.
Silicone molds are essential for clean shapes and easy release, especially for the candy cane design.
Best served well-chilled, when the texture is perfectly firm and the flavors feel crisp and refreshing.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 20–24 gummies
Calories: ~90 kcal per gummy

🧊 Storage Tips

Once your gummies are all swirled, set, and sprinkled with candy cane dust, it’s time to store them (if you don’t eat them all right away, that is).

Refrigerate: Always store in the fridge in an airtight container.
Single Layer: Lay them in a single layer or use parchment between layers to avoid sticking.

Avoid Humidity: Moisture is the enemy of gelatin — keep them cold and dry.
No Freezing: Freezing changes the gummy texture and makes them weep upon thawing.

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⏳ How Long Do Boozy Gummies Last?

If stored correctly, your gummies will stay fresh, firm, and flavorful for up to 7 days in the fridge.

But let’s be real — once you taste them, they probably won’t last more than a day or two. They’re that good.

🎁 Serving Ideas

Ready to show off your festive Fireball creations? Here’s how to make them the star of the holiday table:

🎉 Holiday Party Treats

Arrange them on a sparkly serving platter.
Place near the bar or drink station.
Pair with hot cocoa, mulled wine, or eggnog.

🧺 DIY Gift Bags

Pop a few into a clear cellophane bag.
Tie with red and white twine or a candy cane ribbon.
Add a little tag that says: “Naughty Never Tasted So Nice!”

🧀 Charcuterie Add-On

Add to a grown-up holiday snack board.
They pair surprisingly well with sharp cheddar or spicy salami.

🎨 Customization Ideas

Feeling creative? Once you’ve nailed this recipe, it’s easy to switch things up and make it your own.

🍹 Alcohol Swaps

RumChata + Peppermint Schnapps = Creamy minty magic.
Cinnamon Tequila = Bold and spicy with a kick.
Bailey’s Red Velvet + Vanilla Vodka = A dessert-style gummy twist.

🍇 Flavor Tweaks

Add cranberry juice to the red layer for a tart twist.

Use coconut milk in the white layer for tropical peppermint.

🎄 Shapes and Colors

Use Christmas tree, snowflake, or ornament molds for variety.
Add edible glitter for extra sparkle.
Try green + red layers instead of white for a colorful touch.

📏 How Much Alcohol Is in Each Gummy?

Wondering how strong these actually are? Let’s break it down:

¾ cup Fireball for about 20–24 gummies = around 1/3 oz per gummy.
After chilling, each gummy retains a decent percentage of alcohol.
Eat 3–5 gummies and you’ll start to feel a warm buzz — especially if you’re sensitive to alcohol.

So yes — they’re fun, but they’re potent. Enjoy responsibly.

🎅 Final Thoughts: A Holiday Treat Worth Sharing

There’s something magical about homemade treats during the holidays, especially ones that double as dessert and drink. These Candy Cane Fireball Gummies are everything: festive, flavorful, fun, and easy to make. Whether you’re gifting them, snacking on them during a Christmas movie marathon, or wowing guests at your holiday party — they’ll be the most talked-about treat on the table.

From the first spicy bite to the peppermint sparkle finish, these gummies are a holiday hit. So grab your silicone mold, pour yourself a little Fireball on the side, and let the festive fun begin. Cheers to cinnamon heat, peppermint coolness, and a grown-up candy cane treat worth repeating every December!

❓ FAQs

1. Can I use flavored gelatin instead of unflavored?

You could, but it will affect the clarity and flavor. Unflavored gelatin is best for keeping layers smooth and customizing your flavors.

2. Do these taste super alcoholic?

Not overwhelming — the apple juice and sugar mellow the Fireball, but they’re still definitely boozy. You’ll taste the spice first!

3. How can I make them vegan?

Use a plant-based gelatin substitute like agar-agar, but note that texture and ratios will need testing. They won’t be exactly the same.

4. Can I use a regular mold if I don’t have candy cane ones?

Yes! Any silicone mold will work. Try holiday-themed shapes like trees, stars, or hearts.

5. Do I have to use crushed candy canes on top?

Nope, they’re optional. But they do add a festive crunch and that classic peppermint finish.

Hi, I’m Lora!

I'm so glad you've found your way here. My kitchen is my happy place, and if you're just starting your own cooking journey, I want you to know you're in the right place.

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