Vegan Gummy Bear Recipe: Easy Homemade Treats to Try

Who says gummy bears are just for kids or full of animal-derived gelatin? With this delightful vegan gummy bear recipe, you can enjoy chewy, colorful treats that are completely plant-based and healthier than store-bought versions.

These gummies are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth without compromising your vegan lifestyle. Plus, they’re fun to make at home, allowing you to customize flavors and colors to your liking.

Whether you’re planning a fun snack for the kids or a charming addition to a party platter, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Using natural fruit juices and agar-agar, these gummy bears are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and free from artificial ingredients.

Prepare to impress your family and friends with these irresistibly cute and tasty vegan gummies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out because it uses agar-agar, a seaweed-based gelatin alternative, to achieve the perfect gummy texture without any animal products. Unlike traditional gelatin gummies, these are vegan-friendly, allergy-conscious, and customizable.

You’ll also appreciate the flexibility of this recipe — swap fruit juices or add natural sweeteners to suit your taste buds. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more fruit flavors into your diet in a fun and playful form.

Making your own gummies means no preservatives, no artificial colors, and no added chemicals. Just pure, wholesome goodness!

Ingredients

• 1 cup 100% fruit juice (e.g., apple, grape, cherry, or mixed berry)
• 2 tablespoons agar-agar powder
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Optional: natural food coloring or fruit puree for extra flavor and color

Equipment

• Small saucepan
• Whisk or spoon for stirring
• Gummy bear silicone molds (or any silicone candy molds)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Dropper or small spoon for filling molds
• Refrigerator space for setting gummies

Instructions

1. Prepare your molds: Lightly grease your silicone molds with a neutral oil or use a silicone mold spray to ensure easy removal of the gummy bears later.
2. Combine ingredients: In a small saucepan, pour 1 cup of fruit juice. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of agar-agar powder evenly over the surface and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This helps the agar hydrate properly.
3. Heat and stir: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Using a whisk or spoon, stir continuously until the agar dissolves completely and the mixture starts to boil. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add sweetener and lemon juice: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of maple syrup or agave nectar and 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. The lemon juice adds a slight tang and helps brighten the flavors.
5. Optional additions: If you want more vibrant colors or flavors, add natural food coloring drops or a tablespoon of fruit puree at this stage and mix well.
6. Fill the molds: Using a dropper or small spoon, carefully fill each cavity of the gummy bear molds with the warm mixture. Work quickly but carefully, as agar sets fast.
7. Set the gummies: Place the filled molds in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until fully set and firm to the touch.
8. Remove and enjoy: Gently pop the gummies out of the molds. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Tips & Variations

For the best gummy texture, make sure your agar-agar powder is fresh and high quality. Old or improperly stored agar may not gel well.

• Flavor swaps: Try using different 100% fruit juices like pomegranate, watermelon, or orange for exciting new tastes.
• Sweetener options: If you prefer, use coconut sugar, brown rice syrup, or date syrup instead of maple or agave.
• Vitamin boost: Add a teaspoon of powdered vitamin C or a splash of vegetable juice for extra nutrients.
• Fun shapes: Experiment with various silicone molds such as stars, hearts, or animals for themed parties or gifts.
• Make them sugar-free: Use unsweetened fruit juice and a natural zero-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit, adjusting tastes carefully.

Nutrition Facts

Keep in mind that the nutrition facts will vary depending on the fruit juice and sweetener you use. These gummies are a light, sweet treat rather than a significant source of vitamins or protein.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your vegan gummy bears as a fun snack at any time of the day. They’re perfect for lunchbox treats, party favors, or an energizing bite during a hike or workout.

You can also toss a few into sparkling water for a fruity twist on homemade soda.

For a delightful dessert, serve them alongside fresh fruit salad or vegan yogurt. They also make adorable edible decorations for cakes, cupcakes, or smoothie bowls.

If you love this recipe, you might want to explore more vegan treats and meals like the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.

Conclusion

Making your own vegan gummy bears is a rewarding and enjoyable kitchen project that yields delicious, healthy treats free from animal products and artificial additives. With simple ingredients like agar-agar and real fruit juice, these gummies are both nutritious and customizable to your flavor preferences.

Not only are they a perfect snack for vegans and those with dietary restrictions, but they also make fantastic gifts or party snacks that everyone can enjoy guilt-free. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create your own colorful, chewy delights at home.

For more creative vegan recipes that bring joy and health to your table, check out Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves and Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

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