Homemade Vegan Gummies – Healthy Plant-Based Treats
Halloween is synonymous with sweet treats. Gummy candies are one of my favorite sweet treats, but many store-bought gummies are packed with artificial colors, flavors, added sugars, and non-vegan ingredients like gelatin. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, vegan gummies made with real fruit juice are the perfect option. They’re not only free from added sugars, but they also use natural ingredients to create a delicious, chewy texture—making them a better choice for both kids and adults.
Table of Contents
What Makes Vegan Gummies Healthier
- Real Fruit Juice: Unlike commercial gummies that often use high-fructose corn syrup, these vegan gummies are made with real fruit juice, providing natural sweetness and added nutrients like vitamin C and antioxidants.
- No or Less Added Sugar: These gummies don’t need any extra sweeteners, but the great thing is you can customize the sweetness by adding as much or as little sweetener as you like.
- No Artificial Ingredients: Forget about artificial colors and flavors, you’re only using the pure goodness of fruit.
- Gelatin-Free: Store-bought gummies are typically made with gelatin, a by-product of animal collagen. Vegan gummies use a plant-based alternative, making them cruelty-free and suitable for plant-based eaters.
Why These Gummies Are a Perfect Plant-based Treat
These vegan gummies are not only a fun and festive way to enjoy Halloween, but they’re also a healthier option that doesn’t rely on artificial ingredients or excess sugar. Made with real fruit juice and set with nutrient-rich agar, these gummies are a treat you can feel good about sharing with family and friends.
- They’re quick and easy to make so you’ll get to enjoy them in no time!
- They’re a much healthier alternative to traditional sugary treats.
- The natural colors from fruit juice add a vibrant, fun touch.
- With customizable flavors, you can make a variety of fruity options to keep everyone happy!
Ingredients You’ll need
- Your choice of 100% fruit juice (I used Evolution Fresh Organic Super Fruit Greens and Tropical Passion)
- Agar powder (I used Now Foods)
- Sweetener of choice
- Optional: Superfood or antioxidant of choice (spirulina powder, beet powder, Vitamin drops)
Equipment You’ll need
- Silicone molds with dropper or pipette (I used these silicone gummy molds)
- Small saucepan
- Whisk or small spatula
What is Agar, and How is it Used in Vegan Cooking and Baking
Agar, or agar-agar, is a natural gelatinous substance derived from red algae. It’s widely used as a substitute for animal-derived gelatin, providing a similar texture without the need for animal products. You can explore more information about agar and its diverse uses as a vegan gelatin substitute in our blog post: Ultimate Guide to Agar: The Versatile Vegan Gelatin Alternative.
- How it Works: Agar sets liquids in a firm, jelly-like texture. It’s perfect for making vegan gummies, jellies, puddings, and even vegan cheeses.
- Benefits of Agar: Agar is low in calories, contains no fat, and is a good source of fiber. It also has a higher setting temperature than gelatin, making it a reliable option for various vegan recipes.
- Agar in Vegan Recipes: Whether you’re making vegan gummies, cheesecakes, or mousse, agar is a versatile ingredient that helps you achieve the right texture without compromising on your plant-based lifestyle. It is tasteless, odorless, and colorless, making it easy to incorporate into recipes without affecting flavor.
Common Questions
What kind of fruit juice works best for these gummies?
You can use any 100% fruit juice, such as orange, apple, grape, mixed berry, or any combination of flavors for a fun twist! Avoid juices and blends that contain added sugars, artificial sweeter, or flavors for the healthiest option.
Can I use a sweetener if I want the gummies to be sweeter?
Yes, you can add a small amount of natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave. You can also customize the sweetness by adding as much or as little sweetener as you like.
How long do these gummies last?
They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Can I use other shapes or molds?
Absolutely! This is part of the fun! Use any silicone mold shape you like based on preference, event, or holiday.
How long does it take for gummies to set?
The gummies set pretty quickly. I would advise leaving them at least 30 minutes to set in the fridge to ensure they’re firm.
Are vegan gummies safe for people with food allergies?
These are free from common allergens like gluten, dairy, nuts, and soy, making them suitable for most dietary restrictions. Just be sure to check the fruit juice you use for any potential allergens.
Healthy Homemade Vegan Gummies
Equipment
- Pipette or Dropper
Ingredients
- 1 cup Fruit Juice*
- 2 teaspoons Agar Powder
- 1 teaspoon Agave (optional)
Instructions
- Add 1 cup of fruit juice into a small sauce pan. Add in your superfood and/or sweetener at this time if using and mix until dissolved.
- Sprinkle in the 2 teaspoons of agar powder. Mix and allow for it to boom for about 5 minutes.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for five minutes, stirring frequently.
- Remove from heat and allow it to cool until safe to handle. Don’t leave cooling for too long as these gummies will firm up quickly.
- Using a dropper, fill the silicone molds. This will fill approximately one and a half to two mold sheets depending on the size of the molds.
- Place in the fridge and allow them to firm up for about 30 minutes.
Notes
Nutrition
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