Low Calorie Candy
If you’re on a quest for a sweet treat that won’t derail your healthy eating goals, you’re in for a delightful surprise. Today, I’m sharing my go-to recipe for Low Calorie Candy that’s bursting with flavor and guilt-free ingredients. This candy is not only a hit with the taste buds but also a perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the extra calories. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up this delightful treat in no time. So, let’s dive in and see how easy it can be to enjoy a sweet snack that’s both delicious and low in calories!
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about candy; it can transport you back to childhood days, filled with laughter and joy. However, many traditional candies are loaded with sugar and artificial ingredients. This Low Calorie Candy recipe offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste. It’s customizable, allowing you to experiment with different flavors of fruit teas and sweeteners. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly if you choose plant-based gelatin. With this recipe, I can indulge in a sweet treat knowing that I’m making a better choice for my health.
The Essentials
To create your own batch of Low Calorie Candy, you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup hot water: This will dissolve the tea and gelatin, forming the base of your candy.
- 2-3 fruit tea bags: Choose your favorite flavors! Options like raspberry, peach, or citrus work wonderfully.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sweetener of choice: I used erythritol, but feel free to use stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a different flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin: This helps give the candy its chewy texture. If you want a vegan option, look for agar-agar or pectin.
- 1 drop food coloring (optional): Add a splash of color to your candy for a fun presentation!
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precision in measuring your ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: To combine all the ingredients easily.
- Whisk: This will help dissolve the gelatin and sweetener smoothly.
- Silicone candy molds: Perfect for shaping your candies and ensuring they pop out easily.
- Heat-resistant spatula: Ideal for stirring and scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl.
Low Calorie Candy: From Prep to Plate
Ready to make your own Low Calorie Candy? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Hot Water
Start by boiling water and then measuring out 1/2 cup of hot water.
Step 2: Steep the Tea
Place 2-3 fruit tea bags in the hot water. Let them steep for about 5 minutes to infuse the water with flavor. Once steeped, remove the tea bags and let the liquid cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the hot tea with 2 tablespoons of granulated sweetener. Whisk until the sweetener is fully dissolved.
Step 4: Add Gelatin
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin over the mixture while whisking continuously. This will help prevent clumps from forming. Continue to whisk until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
Step 5: Add Food Coloring
If you’re using food coloring, add a drop now and mix thoroughly until you achieve your desired color.
Step 6: Pour into Molds
Carefully pour the mixture into your silicone candy molds. Fill them to the top, but be cautious not to overflow.
Step 7: Chill and Set
Place the filled molds in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the candies are fully set.
Step 8: Unmold and Enjoy
Once set, gently pop the candies out of the molds. They should come out effortlessly, showcasing their beautiful shapes and colors.
Better Choices & Swaps
There are always ways to tailor this recipe to fit your dietary needs or preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Use different types of tea bags: Experiment with herbal tea, green tea, or even chai for a unique flavor.
- Swap out erythritol for your preferred sweetener: Stevia or honey (if not vegan) are great alternatives.
- Try different shapes: Use different molds for holidays or special occasions, like hearts for Valentine’s Day or stars for the Fourth of July.
- Mix in flavors: Add a splash of natural fruit juice to enhance the flavor even more!
Insider Tips
To ensure your Low Calorie Candy turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Make sure your water is hot but not boiling when mixing with gelatin to avoid affecting its setting properties.
- Allow enough time for the candy to set. If you’re in a hurry, you can place them in the freezer for 30 minutes.
- For a fun texture, consider adding a bit of finely chopped fruit to the mixture before pouring it into molds.
- If you find the candy too sweet, reduce the amount of sweetener slightly in your next batch.
Storage Pro Tips
Once you’ve made your Low Calorie Candy, you’ll want to store it properly to maintain its texture and flavor. Here are some tips:
- Store the candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
- To prevent sticking, you can dust the candies lightly with cornstarch before storing them.
- Keep them away from direct sunlight to prevent them from melting or losing their texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use flavored gelatin instead of unflavored?
Yes! You can use flavored gelatin, but be aware that it may add extra calories and sugar. Check the nutritional information if you’re counting calories.
How can I make these candies more colorful?
You can use natural food coloring or even fruit purees to tint your candies for a vibrant look.
What’s the texture like compared to regular candy?
The texture is chewy and slightly firmer than traditional gummy candies, thanks to the gelatin. Don’t worry; they’re still incredibly delicious!
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure you have enough molds available, or you can pour the mixture into a lined baking dish and cut it into pieces once set.
Serve & Enjoy
Your Low Calorie Candy is ready to be enjoyed! Serve them at parties, share with friends, or keep them as a personal treat. The best part? You can indulge without the guilt, knowing that you’ve made a healthier choice.
Whether you’re a candy lover or simply looking for a sweet, low-calorie alternative, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So grab your ingredients, gather your kitchen gear, and let’s make some candy magic happen!
Sweeten up your life with this Low Calorie Candy and embrace the joy of homemade treats. You deserve it!
Low Calorie Candy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by boiling water and then measuring out 1/2 cup of hot water.
- Place 2-3 fruit tea bags in the hot water. Let them steep for about 5 minutes to infuse the water with flavor. Once steeped, remove the tea bags and let the liquid cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the hot tea with 2 tablespoons of granulated sweetener. Whisk until the sweetener is fully dissolved.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin over the mixture while whisking continuously to prevent clumps from forming. Continue to whisk until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
- If you're using food coloring, add a drop now and mix thoroughly until you achieve your desired color.
- Carefully pour the mixture into your silicone candy molds, filling them to the top but being cautious not to overflow.
- Place the filled molds in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the candies are fully set.
- Once set, gently pop the candies out of the molds, showcasing their beautiful shapes and colors.
Notes
- Ensure the water is hot but not boiling when mixing with gelatin to avoid affecting its setting properties.
- Allow enough time for the candy to set; you can place them in the freezer for 30 minutes if in a hurry.
- For added texture, consider adding finely chopped fruit to the mixture before pouring it into molds.
