Are you looking for a fun and healthy snack that the whole family will love? Tired of sugary store-bought gummies? Then look no further! This homemade fruit and veggie gummies recipe is the perfect solution. It's surprisingly easy to make, bursting with fresh flavors, and packed with vitamins and nutrients. This recipe offers a delicious and guilt-free alternative to traditional sweets, making it a fantastic addition to your healthy meal plan or a delightful surprise for kids' lunchboxes. It's a perfect example of easy recipes and healthy meals combined!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fruit juice (any kind – apple, cranberry, mixed berry work well!)
- 1/2 cup vegetable puree (carrot, sweet potato, or pumpkin are excellent choices)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
- 1/4 cup cold water
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom. This allows the gelatin to absorb the water and properly set later.
Combine ingredients:
- In a saucepan, combine the fruit juice, vegetable puree, and honey or maple syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is just simmering. Don't let it boil.
Add gelatin:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and gently stir in the bloomed gelatin until it's completely dissolved. Make sure there are no lumps.
Pour and set:
- Pour the mixture into silicone molds or a small baking dish lined with parchment paper. Silicone molds are ideal for easy removal.
Chill and enjoy:
- Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until the gummies are completely set. Once set, gently remove the gummies from the molds. If using a baking dish, cut into squares or desired shapes.
Tips for Success:
- Fruit and veggie combinations: Feel free to experiment with different combinations of fruits and vegetables to create unique flavors. Be creative!
- Sweetness adjustment: Taste the mixture before pouring it into the molds and adjust the sweetness according to your preference.
- Mold selection: Silicone molds are recommended for easy release, but you can also use small cups or a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
- Storage: Store your homemade gummies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Add-ins: Enhance the flavor and nutrition by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract, a pinch of cinnamon, or some finely chopped nuts or seeds.
- Citrus zest: A little bit of lemon or orange zest can add a delightful zing to your gummies.
- Layered gummies: Create visually appealing layered gummies by pouring different colored mixtures into the molds in layers.
Nutritional Information (per gummy, approximate):
Nutritional information will vary greatly depending on the specific fruits and vegetables used. For a general estimate, a single gummy will likely contain a moderate amount of vitamins, minerals, and natural sugars, with relatively low calories compared to traditional candy. For precise nutritional data, use a nutrition calculator based on your specific ingredient choices.
This fruit and veggie gummies recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes and quick dinner ideas combined for a healthy and fun snack. Making your own gummies is a rewarding experience, allowing you to control the ingredients and create a truly healthy treat for you and your family. Enjoy!