Okay, I have a real treat for your kiddos today. These homemade gummy candies are super fun to make, even more fun to eat, and the process couldn't be easier.
What I love about this recipe is that you're giving your kids nourishing ingredients that are actually good for their bodies-versus the preservatives and empty calories that come with regular candy. Just a few simple things like fruit, vegetables, maple syrup, and gelatin, and you've got a snack they'll beg for again and again.
WHAT IS GELATIN?
When you think of gelatin, you probably think of brightly colored jello cups, right? But there's a lot more to it.
Traditionally, gelatin was made from collagen found in the skin and bones of animals. While that might sound a little strange, collagen has actually been part of human diets for centuries. If you've ever made a pot of homemade broth, you've already enjoyed the benefits-it's the same collagen our great-great-grandmothers relied on when cooking for their families.
Gelatin is made up mostly of two amino acids-glycine and proline-that play an important role in skin, hair, and nail health. They also support immune function and can help with natural weight regulation.
Personally, I like to use beef gelatin powder. It's made from grass-fed, pasture-raised cattle and is packed with good collagen for your skin, hair, and bones
Note: You should always check with your doctor to make sure something is the right fit for you personally, especially if you have a medical condition. I am not a doctor nor do I provide medical advice here on my website.
If you're vegan or vegetarian and would rather skip animal-based products, you can use agar agar powder instead. It's derived from seaweed and creates a firmer texture that works well in recipes like this.
Recipe Tips
- Steam veggies first for easier blending.
- Silicone candy molds make fun shapes for kids.
- Don't boil the mixture-heat just enough to dissolve gelatin.
- Slice into small cubes for bite-sized snacks.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
- Fruit: Swap mango for pineapple, peach, or orange.
- Veggies: Use spinach or zucchini for mild flavor and extra color.
- Sweetener: Honey can replace maple syrup.
- Vegan option: Substitute agar agar powder for gelatin (texture will be firmer).
How to Store
- Fridge: Store in a sealed container up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Not recommended-texture becomes watery after thawing.
Gelatin Gummies Made with Real Fruits and Vegetables
Ingredients
Orange Gummies:
- 2 cups mango chunks - fresh or frozen
- 1 medium carrot - roughly chopped
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 5 Tbsp beef gelatin powder
Red Gummies:
- 2 cups cherries - or berries
- 1 small beet - roughly chopped
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 5 Tbsp beef gelatin powder
Instructions
- Spray containers or molds with non-stick spray.
- Blend fruit, vegetables, and water until smooth.
- Add maple syrup and blend again.
- Pour into a saucepan and sprinkle gelatin on top. Let bloom 5 minutes.
- Heat over medium, whisking until smooth (do not boil).
- Pour into containers. Refrigerate overnight.
- Cut into cubes and store in the fridge.
Recipe Notes:
The nutritional information provided is an estimate and is per serving.
