Best Vegan Candy Recipe for Sweet and Healthy Treats

Craving something sweet but want to keep it 100% vegan? Look no further!

This best vegan candy recipe combines simplicity, wholesome ingredients, and delicious flavors to satisfy your sweet tooth without any animal products. Whether you’re new to vegan treats or a seasoned pro, these candies are a perfect blend of chewy, fruity, and rich goodness that everyone can enjoy.

Plus, they’re homemade, so you know exactly what’s going into them—no hidden additives or preservatives.

Not only are these candies incredibly tasty, but they’re also a fun project to make in your kitchen. With just a handful of natural ingredients, you’ll whip up a batch that’s perfect for gifting, snacking, or brightening up your dessert table.

Let’s dive into making your new favorite vegan candy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan candy recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it uses simple, natural ingredients like coconut sugar, agar powder, and fruit juice, which provide a clean, authentic flavor without any artificial sweeteners or gelatin.

Second, the texture is perfectly chewy and satisfying—much like traditional gummy candies, but completely plant-based.

Additionally, this recipe is highly customizable! You can easily swap out fruit juices or add natural flavor extracts to create your own unique candy flavors.

It’s also allergy-friendly, gluten-free, and free from refined sugars, making it a treat for almost any dietary preference.

Finally, it’s an excellent way to get kids involved in the kitchen or to prepare homemade gifts that show you care. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never reach for store-bought vegan candies again!

Ingredients

• 1 cup 100% fruit juice (such as cherry, grape, or orange)
• 2 tablespoons agar agar powder (a vegan gelatin substitute)
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for brightness)
• 1/2 teaspoon natural vanilla extract (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• Vegan-friendly powdered sugar or cornstarch (for dusting)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Silicone candy molds or a small baking dish lined with parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Small bowl (for dusting mixture)
• Sharp knife (if cutting candies from a baking dish)

Instructions

1. Prepare your molds or baking dish. If using silicone candy molds, set them on a flat surface. If using a baking dish, line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Combine the fruit juice, agar agar powder, and coconut sugar in a medium saucepan. Whisk well to blend the dry ingredients with the juice.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat. Stir constantly with a whisk or spatula until it comes to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the agar and sugar are fully dissolved.
4. Add the lemon juice, vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine and remove from heat immediately.
5. Pour the hot mixture into your prepared molds or baking dish. Work quickly as the mixture begins to set as it cools.
6. Allow the candy to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then transfer it to the refrigerator to firm up for at least 2 hours.
7. Once set, remove the candies from the molds or cut them into bite-sized pieces if you used a baking dish.
8. Lightly dust the candies with vegan powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent sticking.
9. Store your vegan candies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or share immediately for a fresh, delicious treat!

Tips & Variations

For best results, always use fresh or high-quality natural fruit juices—avoid anything with added sugars or preservatives.

• Flavor twists: Add a few drops of natural extracts like peppermint, almond, or orange to change up the flavor profile.
• Colorful candies: Use different fruit juices such as pomegranate for red, pineapple for yellow, or blueberry for purple to create a vibrant candy assortment.
• Texture variation: For a softer candy, reduce the agar powder to 1.5 tablespoons, but note that it will take longer to set.
• Nutty delight: Sprinkle chopped nuts or toasted coconut flakes on top before the candies fully set for added crunch.
• Natural sweeteners: Swap coconut sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness profile.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan candies are perfect as a sweet snack anytime, but they also shine in a variety of settings. Pack a few in lunchboxes for a midday treat or offer them as a palate cleanser between meals.

They’re great for parties too—serve them on a colorful platter alongside fresh fruit and nuts for a delightful dessert spread.

Looking for gift ideas? Package these candies in small cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful, homemade gift.

They also pair beautifully with a cup of herbal tea or vegan hot chocolate on cozy evenings.

For more sweet vegan inspiration, check out our Magic Dough Recipe and Leche De Pantera Recipe for wonderful complementary treats.

Conclusion

Making vegan candy at home is easier than you might think, and this recipe proves it! With just a few wholesome ingredients and a little patience, you’ll create delicious, colorful candies that are both satisfying and nourishing.

These treats are a wonderful way to enjoy sweets without compromising your dietary choices or ingredient quality.

Plus, the flexibility to customize flavors and textures means you can experiment endlessly, keeping candy time exciting and fresh. Whether for yourself, your family, or as a gift, these vegan candies are sure to become a favorite.

Don’t forget to explore more vegan recipes like our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes for hearty meal ideas or the Marzipan Challah Recipe for a sweet bread twist. Happy candy making!

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