Why You’ll Love This Dandelion & Honey Gummy Bears
Hey there, fellow food adventurers! Are you ready for a gummy bear experience unlike any other? Forget those mass-produced, artificial-flavored sweets; we’re diving into a world of natural goodness with these delightful Dandelion & Honey Gummy Bears. Imagine the subtle earthy sweetness of dandelion tea mingling with the rich, golden nectar of honey, all set within a bouncy, jiggly gummy bear. It’s a flavor symphony that’s both unique and utterly irresistible.
These gummy bears aren’t just delicious; they’re also incredibly easy to make. The entire process takes less than 30 minutes of active time, leaving you with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the fruits (or should I say, gummies) of your labor. The texture is perfectly chewy, with just the right amount of give. And the best part? You control the ingredients, ensuring a treat that’s both healthy and satisfying. You’ll feel amazing knowing you’ve created a sweet treat that’s bursting with natural goodness and free from artificial additives. The earthy notes of dandelion paired with the comforting sweetness of honey create a truly magical experience. This recipe is perfect for a relaxing afternoon project, a unique gift for friends, or a special treat for yourself. You deserve a little bit of happiness, and these gummy bears are the perfect way to deliver it!
What You’ll Need
This recipe is delightfully simple, requiring just a handful of wholesome ingredients:
- Dandelion Tea (1 cup): This provides the unique, slightly bitter-sweet flavor profile. You can use store-bought dandelion tea bags or make your own from fresh dandelion flowers (ensure they’re pesticide-free!).
- Honey (1/4 to 1/2 cup): This adds the sweetness and creates a wonderful texture. Adjust the amount based on your preferred level of sweetness and the sweetness of your dandelion tea.
- Vital Proteins Grass Fed Gelatin (3 Tbsp): This is the magic ingredient that transforms our liquid into bouncy gummy bears. Grass-fed gelatin is a great source of protein and provides a cleaner flavor than other types of gelatin.
- Silicone Gummy Bear Molds: These make releasing the gummies a breeze. You can find a wide variety online or in kitchen stores. Choose molds that are easy to clean and durable.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get crafting these delicious gummy bears!
- Prepare the Dandelion Tea: If using loose leaf dandelion tea, steep 1 cup of boiling water over 1-2 tbsp of dandelion leaves for 5-7 minutes. For tea bags, follow package directions. Allow the tea to cool completely to room temperature. This is crucial; hot liquid will melt the gelatin.
- Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of Vital Proteins gelatin over the cooled dandelion tea. Let it sit undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes. This allows the gelatin to fully absorb the liquid, preventing lumps in your final product. Don’t skip this step!
- Combine Honey and Gelatin Mixture: Gently whisk in the honey to the bloomed gelatin mixture. Start with 1/4 cup and add more to your desired level of sweetness. Be sure to fully incorporate the honey to prevent pockets of un-sweetened gummy bears.
- Strain (Optional): For a smoother, clearer gummy bear, you can strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any dandelion bits. This step is entirely optional, and many find the tiny dandelion specks charming!
- Fill the Molds: Carefully pour the dandelion and honey mixture into your silicone gummy bear molds, filling each cavity almost to the top. A small funnel can be helpful here to prevent spills.
- Refrigerate: Cover the molds and place them in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or until the gummies are completely set and firm. Patience is key here for the perfect texture!
- Release the Gummies: Once set, gently push the gummy bears out of the molds. Silicone molds make this super easy; the gummies should pop right out.
Tip: If you’re having trouble releasing the gummies, you can gently run the molds under warm water for a few seconds.
Tips for Success
To ensure perfectly set and delicious Dandelion & Honey Gummy Bears, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Cool Completely: Ensure your dandelion tea is completely cool before adding the gelatin. Hot liquid will prevent proper setting. Room temperature is ideal.
Bloom the Gelatin: Don’t skip the blooming step! This is crucial for preventing lumps and ensuring a smooth texture.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture before filling the molds and adjust the honey to your preference. Some dandelion teas are more bitter than others.
Don’t Overfill: Leave a tiny bit of space at the top of each mold to allow for expansion during setting.
Gentle Handling: Handle the set gummies gently to avoid breaking them. They are quite delicate once set.
Variations to Try
Feeling adventurous? Try these variations to customize your Dandelion & Honey Gummy Bears:
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a bright, citrusy twist.
Spiced Honey: Substitute your honey with spiced honey for a warm, aromatic flavor.
Herbal Infusion: Experiment with other herbal teas, like chamomile or lavender, for unique flavor combinations.
Fruit Puree: Add a tablespoon or two of your favorite fruit puree (like berries or mango) for extra flavor and color.
Vegan Option: Substitute the gelatin with agar-agar powder for a vegan-friendly version. Follow the package directions for usage.
Storing and Reheating
Store your Dandelion & Honey Gummy Bears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They’ll keep their texture and flavor beautifully.
Freezing is also an option. Place the gummies in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Allow them to thaw completely at room temperature before serving.
Reheating isn’t necessary, as they are delicious straight from the fridge or after thawing. However, if you find them slightly less chewy after a few days in the fridge, a few seconds in the microwave on low power will restore some of their suppleness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of gelatin? A: While other gelatins might work, Vital Proteins grass-fed gelatin is recommended for its superior flavor and quality. If using a different brand, you may need to adjust the amount based on its setting power. Always check the package instructions.
Q: How long do the gummy bears keep? A: Stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they will last for about a week. Frozen, they will keep for up to two months.
Q: Can I use fresh dandelion flowers instead of tea? A: Yes, you can! However, ensure they’re pesticide-free and thoroughly cleaned. You might need to adjust the amount based on the bitterness and strength of the flowers.
Q: What if my gummy bears don’t set properly? A: This usually happens if the dandelion tea wasn’t completely cool before adding the gelatin, or if the gelatin wasn’t properly bloomed. Make sure you follow the instructions carefully!
Q: Can I use other types of molds? A: While silicone molds are ideal for easy release, you can use other types of molds. However, be prepared for some difficulty in removing the gummies, and make sure your molds are food-safe and suitable for refrigeration.
The Final Word
These Dandelion & Honey Gummy Bears are a testament to the magic of simple, wholesome ingredients. The unique flavor combination, coupled with the ease of preparation, makes them a perfect treat for any occasion. They are a delightful alternative to store-bought gummies, offering a healthier, more flavorful experience. So, gather your ingredients, get crafting, and prepare to be amazed by the delightful results!
Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your photos on social media using #DandelionHoneyGummies. Happy gummy-making!
Dandelion & Honey Gummy Bears 🐻🍯
Ingredients
- * 1 cup strong dandelion tea cooled (steep 1 tbsp dried dandelion root in 1 cup hot water for 10-15 minutes) 🌼
- * 1/4 to 1/2 cup honey to taste 🍯 (adjust to your preferred sweetness)
- * 3 Tbsp Vital Proteins Grass Fed Gelatin 🌱
- * Pinch of sea salt
- * 1/2 tsp vanilla extract optional
- * Lemon juice a few drops, optional, for setting and flavor enhancement
- * Edible flowers or sprinkles for garnish optional
Instructions
- **Bloom the Gelatin:** In a small heatproof bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cooled dandelion tea. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom. This allows the gelatin to absorb the liquid and ensures a smooth texture.
- **Heat Gently:** Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method) or heat gently in the microwave in short bursts, stirring constantly, until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Do not boil.
- **Sweeten and Flavor:** Remove from heat and stir in the honey, salt, and vanilla extract (if using). Taste and adjust the honey to your liking. Add a few drops of lemon juice if desired, to help the gummies set.
- **Fill the Molds:** Carefully pour the mixture into your silicone gummy bear molds, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
- **Set the Gummies:** Place the molds in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or until the gummies are completely set and firm.
- **Release the Gummies:** Once set, gently remove the gummy bears from the molds. If they are sticking, run the molds under warm water for a few seconds.
- **Garnish (Optional):** Decorate your gummy bears with edible flowers or sprinkles, if desired.
- **Enjoy!:** Store your gummy bears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.