30-Minute Homemade Fruit and Veggie Gummies
Make chewy fruit snacks at home by blending fresh strawberries with beets or mangoes with carrots, then setting with gelatin and honey. This recipe yields two flavor combinations in one batch, combining natural sweetness with hidden vegetables. Perfect for kids' lunchboxes or as a healthier candy alternative. The addition of steamed vegetables boosts nutrition while the fruit provides bright flavor and natural color.
Ingredients
- 1 lb strawberries, chopped
- ⅓ cup beets, steamed and chopped
- 1 lb mango, chopped
- ⅓ cup carrots, steamed and chopped
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp + 1 tsp, gelatin
- 3 tbsp gelatinagar powder1 tbsp per batchveganvegetarian
Use agar powder instead; follow package ratios as agar sets faster and firmer
Full guide →
Instructions
- 1
Combine strawberries and beets in a blender or food processor and blend until completely liquid.
- 2
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a medium pot, pressing down with a spatula to extract as much juice as possible.
- 3
Repeat the blending and straining process separately with mango and carrots.
- 4
Pour the strawberry-beet juice into a pot and stir in half the honey.
- 5
Sprinkle the gelatin for this batch over the liquid and mix gently.
- 6
Let sit for 2-3 minutes to hydrate the gelatin.
- 7
Heat the pot over low heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes fully liquid.
- 8
Transfer the mango-carrot juice to another pot and repeat steps 4-7 with the remaining honey and gelatin.
- 9
Using a dropper, carefully fill molds with each juice mixture, or pour into a large glass container.
- 10
Refrigerate for 4-6 hours until fully set.
- 11
Remove gummies from molds or slice from the container and serve chilled.
Tips
Use a silicone spatula or wooden spoon when straining to press out maximum juice without forcing pulp through the mesh.
Make both batches simultaneously in separate pots to streamline the process and reduce total prep time.
For easy removal, lightly spray silicone molds with cooking spray before filling.
Good to Know
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store in a cool, dry place away from humidity.
Prepare up to 2 days in advance. Keep refrigerated until serving.
Serve chilled directly from the refrigerator. Can be served at room temperature but texture firms best when cold.
Common Mistakes
Do not skip the straining step to avoid grainy texture from pulp in the final gummies.
Do not heat above low heat to avoid breaking down gelatin and losing set.
Do not skip the 2-3 minute hydration time before heating gelatin to avoid lumps.
Substitutions
Use agar powder instead; follow package ratios as agar sets faster and firmer
Full guide →Pectin requires additional sugar and acid; may produce softer texture
Full guide →FAQ
Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw frozen fruit completely and drain excess liquid before blending. The yield may be slightly less as frozen fruit releases more water when thawed.
What if my gummies don't set after 6 hours?
The mixture may not have reached full liquid temperature. Return the pot to low heat briefly until liquid, then pour and refrigerate again. Ensure your refrigerator is cold enough.
How long can I keep these gummies?
Refrigerated gummies last up to 5 days in an airtight container. Do not freeze as the texture becomes icy and separates.