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If you have a soft spot for nostalgic candies but want to keep things plant-based and wholesome, this Vegan Gummy Bears (No Gelatin) Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Imagine vibrant, chewy little bears bursting with real strawberry flavor and a gentle tang from kombucha, all without any animal products or weird additives. This recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and creativity, transforming just a handful of natural ingredients into delightful gummies that feel indulgent yet nourishing. You’ll be amazed how easy and fun it is to make your own vegan gummy bears at home, perfect for sharing or treating yourself whenever the craving strikes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these Vegan Gummy Bears (No Gelatin) Recipe ingredients together is a breeze, and each one plays an important role in crafting that ideal chewy texture and refreshing taste. From the juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries to the natural setting power of agar-agar, every element is simple but essential.
- Fresh strawberries (2.75 cups): These bring natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a refreshing fruity base to your gummies.
- Kombucha (1 cup): Adds a subtle tang and natural effervescence that balances sweetness beautifully—fruit juice can also be used for a milder flavor.
- Organic cane sugar (3 tablespoons): Just enough to enhance sweetness without overpowering the fruit’s natural flavors.
- Agar-agar powder (3.5 teaspoons): This plant-based gelatin substitute is crucial for giving your gummies that perfect chewy, bouncy texture.
How to Make Vegan Gummy Bears (No Gelatin) Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Molds
Start by making sure your silicone gummy bear molds are spotless and thoroughly dry—any moisture can affect how the gummies set. Place them securely on a tray or cutting board that fits easily in your fridge; this will make transferring them later a breeze.
Step 2: Puree the Strawberries
Wash your strawberries and carefully hull them before popping them into a blender or food processor. Blitz them until completely smooth, then strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a saucepan to ensure your gummies are silky and free of seeds or pulp.
Step 3: Simmer and Sweeten
Add your organic cane sugar to the strawberry puree and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Keep whisking gently and continuously for 8-10 minutes to reduce the mixture and deepen the flavor, making sure it doesn’t burn on the bottom. Next, stir in the kombucha to add that delightful tang and extra depth.
Step 4: Prepare the Agar-Agar Paste
In a small bowl, combine the agar-agar powder with two tablespoons of water and mix into a smooth paste. This is a key step to help the agar dissolve evenly when added to your fruit mixture.
Step 5: Cook with Agar-Agar
Pour the agar paste into the simmering saucepan, then crank the heat up to bring the mixture to a bubble. Lower the heat slightly and let it cook for another 4-5 minutes, whisking nonstop to prevent clumping or sticking. Once done, take the pan off the heat and let it cool for a couple of minutes—this helps the mixture firm up better in the molds.
Step 6: Mold and Chill
Using a dropper or small spoon, fill your silicone molds carefully with the mixture. Transfer the tray to your fridge and chill them for about 30 minutes until fully set and chewy.
Step 7: Remove and Store
Once your vibrant gummy bears have firmed up, gently pop them out of the molds and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, perfect for quick snacking or sharing with friends.
How to Serve Vegan Gummy Bears (No Gelatin) Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of organic cane sugar or a light dusting of cornstarch on your gummies for a pretty, non-sticky finish. You can also roll them in finely shredded coconut or crushed freeze-dried strawberries for an extra burst of flavor and a fun texture boost.
Side Dishes
These veggie-friendly gummy bears pair wonderfully with a refreshing fruit salad or a chilled herbal iced tea. The contrast between soft juicy gummies and fresh crisp fruits makes for a delightful snack or party treat. They are also fantastic alongside vegan yogurt or a nut-based cheese platter for a creative dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Pour the mixture into fun-shaped molds beyond gummy bears, like stars or hearts, to match the occasion. Pack them into small glass jars with colorful ribbons for personalized party favors or use them to decorate cupcakes and cakes for a whimsical touch. You can even layer different fruit purees to create multi-colored gummy treats that look as stunning as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover vegan gummy bears fresh in an airtight container stored in the fridge. They will maintain their chewy texture and fruity flavor for up to four days. Just make sure to keep them cool and away from moisture to avoid stickiness or melting.
Freezing
If you want to store your gummies for longer, place them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Note that freezing may slightly alter the texture, making them a bit chewier once thawed.
Reheating
Since these vegan gummy bears are best enjoyed chilled, reheating is generally not recommended. However, if you want them softer, gently warming them for a few seconds in a microwave or letting them sit at room temperature will slightly soften the chewiness without compromising their flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries for this Vegan Gummy Bears (No Gelatin) Recipe?
Absolutely! Berries like blueberries, raspberries, or even mango puree work beautifully. Just ensure the fruit is blended smooth and strained if needed to keep your gummies silky and consistent.
Why do we use agar-agar instead of gelatin?
Agar-agar is a plant-based setting agent derived from seaweed, making it perfect for vegan recipes like this one. It sets firmer than gelatin at room temperature and is entirely cruelty-free while providing that classic gummy texture.
Can I substitute kombucha with something else?
Yes, if you don’t have kombucha on hand or prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute it with natural fruit juice like apple or grape juice. Kombucha adds a lovely tang and slight effervescence, but juice still produces tasty gummies.
How long do these vegan gummy bears last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they stay fresh and chewy for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freezing is an option but might slightly change their texture when thawed.
Are silicone molds necessary for making these gummy bears?
While silicone molds make shaping your gummies super easy and adorable, you can also use a shallow dish or ice cube tray if you don’t have molds. Just cut the set gummy sheet into bite-sized pieces once chilled and firm.
Final Thoughts
Making your own Vegan Gummy Bears (No Gelatin) Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience, especially when you taste those fruity, chewy candies that are bursting with real ingredients. It’s a fantastic way to bring a little joy and creativity into your kitchen while keeping things healthy and plant-based. Whether you’re making them for yourself, your kids, or a special gathering, these delightful gummy bears won’t disappoint. Give this recipe a try—you might just find it quickly becoming a sweet staple in your vegan treat collection!
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Vegan Gummy Bears (No Gelatin) Recipe
- Total Time: 58 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This vegan gummy bears recipe uses fresh strawberries and agar-agar powder as a plant-based alternative to gelatin, combined with kombucha and organic cane sugar to create a naturally flavored, chewy treat. Perfect for those seeking a gelatin-free, vegan-friendly gummy snack, these gummy bears are easy to make with simple ingredients and set in silicone molds within an hour.
Ingredients
Fruits and Liquids
- 2.75 cups fresh strawberries
- 1 cup kombucha (or fruit juice as substitute)
Sweeteners and Gelling Agents
- 3 tablespoons organic cane sugar
- 3.5 teaspoons agar-agar powder
- 2 tablespoons water (for agar paste)
Instructions
- Prepare molds: Make sure the silicone molds are completely clean and dry. Place the molds on a tray or chopping board that fits in your fridge to keep them stable.
- Puree strawberries: Wash the strawberries and remove their tops. Blend the strawberries in a blender or food processor until completely smooth. Pass the puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a saucepan to ensure a smooth texture.
- Cook the puree with sugar: Add the organic cane sugar to the strawberry puree and place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and let the mixture bubble and reduce for 8-10 minutes while whisking continuously to prevent burning.
- Add kombucha: Stir in the kombucha and whisk well to combine all ingredients smoothly.
- Make agar paste: In a small bowl, combine agar-agar powder with 2 tablespoons of water to form a thick paste.
- Incorporate agar and cook: Add the agar paste to the saucepan, increase heat to high to bring the mixture to a bubble. Then reduce the heat to medium and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring continuously to fully dissolve the agar.
- Cool slightly: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool for a couple of minutes, ensuring it doesn’t set prematurely.
- Fill molds: Use a dropper to carefully fill each silicone mold cavity with the gummy mixture. This allows precise filling and minimizes mess.
- Set gummies: Transfer the filled molds to the fridge. Let the gummies set and firm up for about 30 minutes.
- Store gummies: Once set, remove the gummy bears from the molds and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute kombucha with fruit juice if preferred for a different flavor profile.
- The amount of sugar can be adjusted according to taste or dietary requirements.
- Ensure continuous whisking during cooking to prevent the puree from sticking or burning on the pan’s bottom.
- Use silicone molds for easy removal of gummies once set.
- Consume within 4 days for optimal freshness and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
