1-First Step: Coat an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking, and if you’re using a metal dish, chill it in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to speed up the setting process later.

2-Second Step: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of the granulated sugar, the unsweetened applesauce, the flavored gelatin, the unflavored gelatin, and the lemon juice. Let this mixture stand for 1 minute so the gelatins can start to dissolve.

3-Third Step: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to ensure everything blends smoothly and doesn’t burn; this should take about 2-3 minutes to reach a full boil.

4-Fourth Step: Once boiling, continue stirring and let it boil for exactly 1 minute; this helps create the right consistency for chewy gumdrops, then immediately pour the hot mixture into your prepared baking dish.

5-Fifth Step: Refrigerate the dish for about 3 hours or overnight until the mixture is firm and easy to handle; this resting time is crucial for the gumdrops to set properly.

6-Sixth Step: Dust a cutting board generously with the remaining granulated sugar to prevent sticking, then use a spatula to loosen the edges of the firm gelatin in the dish.

7-Seventh Step: Invert the set mixture onto the sugared cutting board carefully, so it releases in one piece; if it doesn’t come out easily, gently loosen with the spatula again.

8-Eighth Step: Use small, sharp cookie cutters to cut out shapes like stars from the gelatin, making sure to coat the cutters with a bit of sugar first to avoid mess.

9-Ninth Step: Sprinkle sugar over a piece of wax paper and place the cut gumdrops on top, letting them dry for about 8 hours at room temperature until they’re slightly sticky but firm.

10-Tenth Step: Finally, roll the dried gumdrops in the remaining sugar for a sweet coating, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.