Agar Free Vegan And Gummy Bears Recipe Made Easy

Updated On: October 4, 2025

If you’ve been searching for a delightful vegan gummy bear recipe that skips the usual agar-agar and still delivers that perfect chewy, fruity bite, you’re in the right place! These agar-free vegan gummy bears are not only simple to make but also bursting with natural flavors and a lovely texture that rivals traditional gummy candies.

Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions or just love experimenting with plant-based sweets, this recipe is a must-try. Plus, it uses easily accessible ingredients like fruit juice and pectin, making it a healthier, cruelty-free alternative to gelatin-based gummies.

Get ready for a fun kitchen project that will have both kids and adults reaching for seconds!

In this post, I’ll walk you through every step—from the essential ingredients to tips for customization. You’ll learn how to make these vibrant, chewy treats that are perfect for snacking, gifting, or even party favors.

Let’s dive in and create some magic in your kitchen with this agar-free vegan gummy bear recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan gummy bear recipe is truly a game-changer for anyone avoiding gelatin or agar. Instead of agar, we use fruit pectin—the natural gelling agent found in fruits—which gives these gummies a wonderfully soft and chewy texture without the risk of brittleness.

Not only are these gummies vegan and allergen-friendly, but they also pack a punch of natural sweetness and vibrant color from real fruit juice. No artificial flavors or colors here!

Plus, they’re quick to prepare and don’t require any special equipment beyond basic kitchen tools.

Whether you’re making these for your kids, a vegan potluck, or just a fun treat to enjoy yourself, you’ll appreciate how customizable and delightful these gummy bears are. You can swap fruit juices, add natural sweeteners, or even infuse them with herbs for an elevated twist.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup fruit juice (choose natural, pulp-free; e.g., grape, apple, or berry juice)
  • 2 tablespoons fruit pectin powder (available at most health food stores)
  • 1/4 cup organic maple syrup or agave nectar (for natural sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for subtle flavor depth)
  • Non-stick cooking spray or a little coconut oil (to grease molds)

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Silicone gummy bear molds (or any small candy mold)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Dropper or small spoon (to fill molds neatly)
  • Refrigerator or cool place for setting the gummies

Instructions

  1. Prepare your molds. Lightly grease your silicone gummy bear molds with non-stick cooking spray or coconut oil to ensure easy removal later. Set aside.
  2. Combine fruit juice and pectin. In a small saucepan over medium heat, pour in your chosen fruit juice. Sprinkle the fruit pectin evenly on top and whisk continuously to prevent clumps. This step helps the pectin dissolve properly.
  3. Cook the mixture. Bring the juice and pectin mix to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling, reduce heat slightly and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, continuing to whisk. The mixture should thicken slightly.
  4. Add sweetener and lemon juice. Stir in the maple syrup (or agave) and fresh lemon juice. The lemon juice helps activate the pectin. Continue whisking for another minute until everything is well combined and slightly thickened.
  5. Add vanilla extract (optional). Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract for added flavor if desired.
  6. Fill your molds. Using a dropper or small spoon, carefully fill each gummy bear cavity with the hot mixture. Work quickly but carefully to avoid spills.
  7. Chill to set. Place the filled molds in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the gummies are firm and springy to the touch.
  8. Remove and enjoy! Gently pop your gummies out of the molds and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep fresh for up to 7 days.

Tips & Variations

For a firmer gummy, increase pectin to 3 tablespoons; for softer, reduce to 1 1/2 tablespoons.

  • Flavor swaps: Try different fruit juices like pomegranate, cherry, or mango for exciting flavors and colors.
  • Sweetener options: Use coconut sugar, date syrup, or even a sugar-free syrup if you prefer.
  • Add-ins: Consider mixing in finely chopped mint leaves or edible flower petals for a gourmet touch.
  • Texture tweak: If you like a slightly chewy texture, dust the finished gummies with a little cornstarch or powdered sugar.
  • Storage: Keep gummies refrigerated to maintain their texture. If they get sticky, a quick dusting with cornstarch can help.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per serving (approx. 10 gummies)
Calories 60
Carbohydrates 15g
Sugars 12g (natural sugars from juice and sweetener)
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Fiber 0g
Vitamin C 10% DV (depending on juice used)

Serving Suggestions

These vegan gummy bears are perfect as a guilt-free snack for all ages. Serve them in small bowls at kids’ parties, pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise, or add them as colorful edible decorations on cakes and cupcakes.

They also make charming gifts—present them in little jars tied with ribbons for a personalized touch. For a fun twist, pair these gummies with a refreshing herbal iced tea or a sparkling fruit mocktail to complement their fruity notes.

If you’re interested in more creative vegan treats, you might enjoy checking out our Blackberry Juicing Recipes or try our delightful 50 Cupcake Recipes for the ultimate vegan dessert spread.

Conclusion

Making agar-free vegan gummy bears is not only fun but also a rewarding way to enjoy a sweet treat without compromising your dietary choices. Using fruit pectin as a natural gelling agent ensures these gummies are soft, chewy, and bursting with fresh flavor.

This recipe is incredibly flexible, letting you experiment with various juices, sweeteners, and add-ins to suit your taste. The simple ingredients and straightforward method make it accessible for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Whether for a family treat or a thoughtful gift, these gummy bears are sure to bring smiles all around.

For more inventive and delicious recipes, explore our Bread And Gravy Recipe or the savory delights of the Bison Tongue Recipe. Happy cooking and sweet snacking!

📖 Recipe Card: Agar Free Vegan Gummy Bears

Description: Delicious vegan gummy bears made without agar, using natural fruit juice and pectin for a chewy texture. Perfect for a healthy, allergy-friendly treat.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 20 gummy bears

Ingredients

  • 1 cup natural fruit juice (e.g., apple or grape)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons organic maple syrup
  • 3 tablespoons fruit pectin powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

  1. Combine fruit juice and lemon juice in a saucepan.
  2. Whisk in maple syrup, pectin powder, and sea salt until smooth.
  3. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens (about 10 minutes).
  4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Pour mixture into gummy bear molds.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
  7. Pop gummies out of molds and store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Nutrition: Calories: 40 | Protein: 0g | Fat: 0g | Carbs: 10g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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