Healthy Gelatin Gummy Bears: 3 Ingredient Pure Bliss
Making your own snacks at home gives you complete control over what your family eats. I started making these Healthy Gelatin Gummy Bears when I realized how much refined sugar was in the store-bought versions. They are chewy, delicious, and surprisingly easy to prepare. You only need a few natural ingredients and some fun silicone molds to get started.
Why You Will Love These Healthy Gelatin Gummy Bears
I am totally obsessed with these because they are actually good for you. We use beef gelatin which is amazing for supporting your joints and your gut health. Plus you get to use real fruit juice so you are getting actual vitamins while you snack. It is the perfect way to fix a sweet craving without that annoying sugar crash later in the afternoon. My kids go crazy for them and I feel great knowing exactly what is inside every single bite.
Ingredients for Healthy Gelatin Gummy Bears
You do not need a long list of junk to make these treats. I always stick to high quality beef gelatin because it gives the best texture. Here is what you should have on your counter before you start.
- 1 cup of 100 percent natural fruit juice. I think apple, pomegranate, or orange work the best for flavor.
- 3 tablespoons of high quality beef gelatin powder.
- 1 to 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup depending on how sweet you like things.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the whole flavor profile.
How to Make Healthy Gelatin Gummy Bears Step-by-Step
Honestly this process is so fast that you will wonder why you ever bought the bagged ones from the store. Just follow along and you will have a batch ready for the fridge in no time.
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
This part is super important so do not skip it. Pour your cold juice into a small saucepan and sprinkle the beef gelatin right on top. Let it sit there for about five minutes. This is called blooming and it helps the gelatin soften up so you do not end up with any gross clumps in your bears. It will start to look a bit like thick applesauce and that is exactly what you want.
Step 2: Heat the Mixture
Turn your stove to low heat. You want to stir the mixture gently until everything is dissolved and looks totally smooth. Whatever you do please do not let it reach a boil. If the liquid gets too hot it can actually damage the gelatin and your bears might not set properly. Just keep it nice and warm until it looks clear and liquid again.
Step 3: Fill the Molds
Now for the fun part. Grab a little dropper and fill up your silicone molds. It usually takes me about five or ten minutes to fill them all depending on how many bears I am making. If you have little ones they will love helping with this part but just be careful since the liquid is still warm.
Tips for Success with Healthy Gelatin Gummy Bears
I have made a few mistakes so you do not have to. Here are my best secrets for getting the perfect texture every single time.
- Stay away from fresh pineapple, kiwi, or papaya juice. Those specific fruits have enzymes that actually eat the gelatin and your bears will stay liquid forever.
- If you like a really firm and tough gummy just add another half tablespoon of beef gelatin to the recipe.
- If you do not have a dropper you can use a glass measuring cup with a spout to pour the liquid into the molds. It is a little messier but it works just fine.
Nutritional Value of Healthy Gelatin Gummy Bears
These are a fantastic high protein snack compared to the corn syrup versions. Here is the estimated breakdown for a serving of about ten bears.
- Calories: 35 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Sugar: 4g which is all natural from the fruit
- Fat: 0g
Frequently Asked Questions about Healthy Gelatin Gummy Bears
I get asked about these all the time so here are the answers to the most common things people worry about.
How long do these gummies last?
You can store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. I personally think they taste way better when they are served chilled.
Can I make these without beef gelatin?
If you want a plant based option you can try using agar agar powder. Just keep in mind that the texture will be more like a jelly and much less chewy than traditional Healthy Gelatin Gummy Bears.
Why are my gummy bears cloudy?
Cloudiness usually happens if the mixture was whisked too fast which creates a bunch of tiny air bubbles. Next time just stir slowly and gently to keep the liquid clear and vibrant.
Storage Instructions for Healthy Gelatin Gummy Bears
Place your finished bears in a sealed glass jar. You really need to keep them in the fridge to maintain their shape and that perfect chew. If you leave them out at room temperature for too long in a warm kitchen they might become a bit too soft and sticky to handle.
Print
Healthy Gelatin Gummy Bears: 3 Ingredient Pure Bliss
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 50 bears 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
You can make healthy gummy bears with fruit juice and gelatin. This recipe provides a simple snack for your family.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fruit juice
- 3 tablespoons gelatin powder
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Pour the juice into a pot.
- Whisk the gelatin into the juice.
- Let the mixture sit for five minutes.
- Heat the pot on a low setting.
- Stir until the gelatin dissolves.
- Remove the pot from the heat.
- Add the honey to the liquid.
- Pour the liquid into the molds.
- Put the molds in your fridge for thirty minutes.
- Take the bears out of the molds.
Notes
- Keep the bears in your fridge.
- Use a container with a lid.
- Eat the bears within one week.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 45
Keywords: healthy gummy bears, gelatin snacks, fruit snacks
