The realm of social media, particularly TikTok, has become a breeding ground for unusual culinary creations, often involving unexpected combinations of ingredients. One such trend that has taken the platform by storm involves marinating gummy bears in Sprite and subsequently freezing them, a process that results in a texturally unique confectionery experience. This curious concoction, dubbed “gummy polar bears,” began as an ASMR trend initiated by TikTok user @emiriASMR, whose video showcasing the satisfying crunch of the frozen candies garnered over 9 million views. The allure of the auditory and visual experience, combined with the novelty of the process, quickly propelled the trend to viral status.
The recipe for these icy treats is deceptively simple. As demonstrated by TikTok user Kat Chao in her widely circulated tutorial, the process begins by submerging Haribo gummy bears in a container filled with Sprite. This mixture is then refrigerated overnight, allowing the gummy bears to absorb the soda and undergo a transformation in texture and size. Following the refrigeration period, the excess Sprite is discarded, and the engorged gummy bears are arranged on a plate before being transferred to the freezer for two to three hours. The freezing process solidifies the Sprite-infused gummy bears, resulting in a confection with a “smooth icy consistency,” a stark contrast to the characteristic chewiness of a traditional gummy bear.
The appeal of these frozen treats extends beyond their novel texture. The process itself, involving the absorption of Sprite and the subsequent freezing, creates a visual transformation, with the gummy bears noticeably increasing in size. This metamorphosis, coupled with the satisfying crunch documented in numerous videos, contributes to the overall sensory experience. The trend’s popularity is further amplified by its versatility, with variations emerging that involve different types of gummy candies and sizes. TikTok influencer Julia Vuong, for instance, showcased a supersized version of the treat, using a one-pound gummy bear, further cementing the trend’s presence in the online food community.
The online reception of the Sprite-marinated frozen gummy bears has been largely positive, with many expressing enthusiasm for the unusual combination of flavors and textures. Social media platforms are rife with testimonials praising the “satisfying” pops and crunches produced by biting into the frozen treats. The element of osmosis, the process by which the gummy bears absorb the Sprite, adds another layer of intrigue to the experience. Many users describe a sense of fascination with the way the gummy bears expand and transform during the marinating process. This visual element, combined with the auditory satisfaction of the resulting crunch, contributes to the overall appeal of the trend.
However, the trend hasn’t been without its detractors. Some users have voiced their disapproval, citing an unpleasant taste and an underwhelming experience. While many appreciate the icy texture and the burst of Sprite flavor, others find the combination jarring and unappealing. Some critics describe the taste as simply “ice,” suggesting that the Sprite flavor becomes diluted during the freezing process, leaving behind a bland, icy treat. This negative feedback highlights the subjective nature of taste and the fact that viral food trends, while often intriguing, don’t always live up to the hype.
The discrepancies in opinions also underscore the importance of following the recipe correctly. Some of the negative experiences reported may be attributed to deviations from the established method, such as freezing the gummy bears for too long or at too low a temperature. For instance, one TikTok user, Sarah Betts, expressed her disappointment with the snack, describing it as “awful.” However, commenters were quick to point out that she had mistakenly placed the gummy bears in the freezer for 24 hours, rather than following the recommended two to three hours, and that the correct method should result in a treat with a “jelly on the inside” consistency. This highlights the importance of precision when attempting viral recipes, as even slight variations can significantly impact the final product. The debate surrounding the Sprite-marinated gummy bears showcases the power of social media in shaping culinary trends and the diverse range of reactions they elicit.
