Jelly sweets, or gummies as they are often called, are a popular treat enjoyed by people of all ages. But traditional jelly sweets are often made with gelatin, an animal-derived ingredient. Luckily, these vegan jelly sweets are the perfect solution! This recipe uses agar-agar, a plant-based gelling agent, to create delightful, chewy treats that are just as delicious as the non-vegan versions.
Homemade Vegan Jelly Sweets: Ingredients You’ll Need
These vegan jelly sweets are surprisingly simple to make with just a few pantry staples:
- 1 cup fruit juice (choose your favorite – berry juices work great!)
- 2 tablespoons agar-agar powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or any sweetener of your choice – agave nectar and date syrup also work well)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (helps to balance the sweetness)
- Pinch of sea salt
Vibrant ingredients for vegan jelly sweets.
Easy Vegan Jelly Sweets: Step-by-Step Instructions
Are you ready to create your own batch of delicious vegan jelly sweets? Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare Your Molds: Lightly grease your candy molds with a neutral-tasting oil like coconut oil or use silicone molds for easy removal later.
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, whisk together the fruit juice, agar-agar powder, sweetener, lemon juice, and salt. Make sure the agar-agar is completely dissolved.
- Bring to a Boil: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent sticking.
- Pour and Set: Carefully pour the hot mixture into the prepared molds.
- Cool and Unmold: Allow the jelly sweets to cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then, transfer the molds to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to fully set. Once set, carefully remove the sweets from the molds.
Pouring vibrant vegan jelly mixture into candy molds.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Jelly Sweets
Follow these tips to make sure your vegan jelly sweets turn out perfect every time:
- Agar-Agar Power: Agar-agar is a powerful gelling agent, so it’s important to follow the measurements precisely for the best texture.
- Flavor Fusion: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fruit juices, extracts, and even spices to create unique flavor combinations!
- Storage Savvy: Store your vegan jelly sweets in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 5 days.
“Using high-quality fruit juice makes a world of difference in the flavor and vibrancy of your vegan jellies. Look for organic juices without added sugars for the best results.” – Chef Anya Green
An assortment of colorful vegan jelly sweets in a jar.
Vegan Jelly Sweets: FAQs
Can I use a different sweetener?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your preferred sweetener. Maple syrup, agave, and date syrup work well, but you can adjust the amount to your liking.
What if my jelly sweets are too soft?
If your jelly sweets don’t set properly, it could be due to inaccurate agar-agar measurements or insufficient cooking time. Reheat the mixture with an additional teaspoon of agar-agar powder, simmer for a minute, and try setting it again.
Can I add fruit pieces to my jelly sweets?
While it’s possible to add small pieces of fruit, be mindful that the added moisture might affect the setting time. Make sure the fruit pieces are very small and pat them dry before adding them to the mixture.
How can I make my vegan jelly sweets shiny?
For a glossy finish, you can lightly coat the set jellies with a neutral-tasting oil like coconut oil or grapeseed oil.
What are some fun flavor combinations for vegan jelly sweets?
The possibilities are endless! Try these combinations: strawberry-basil, mango-lime, or even beet-ginger for a unique twist.
A variety of brightly colored vegan gummy sweets.
These vegan jelly sweets are a delicious, guilt-free treat that both kids and adults will love. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create your own batch of these delightful, chewy treats that are bursting with flavor!
