Grease a 9×13 glass baking dish with oil or cooking spray.
Prepare gelatin mixture by combining the gelatin with 1/2 cup of the cold water.
Stir until combined & then let stand while you work on the syrup.
Next, combine 3/4 cup water & sugar in a small saucepan.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, making sure to stir frequently.
Simmer for 5 minutes, continuing to stir.
Remove from heat & VERY carefully add gelatin mixture, food coloring of choice & flavor extract of choice.
Stir to combine & then pour into prepared pan.
Refrigerate for at least 3 hours but it is best to leave overnight.
The next day, cover a large cutting board or another flat surface with parchment paper.
Sprinkle the parchment with additional granulated sugar, making an even layer.
Carefully remove the gelatin by loosening up the sides with a spatula & pull to release from the pan, laying down on top of the sugar.
Sprinkle with more sugar.
Use your favorite metal cookies cutters to cut your gumdrops into the shapes & sizes you desire.
Flip & roll any remaining sticky sides of the gumdrops in the sugar to coat.
Store coated gumdrops in an airtight container.
*Note – To keep the cookie cutters from sticking, run under hot water before cutting the gelatin. Periodically clean them between cuts by running under hot water again.