Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cold water (for agar agar)
- 4 tablespoons unflavored bovine agar agar powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup boiling water (for dissolving sugar)
- 1/2 cup concentrated fruit juice (e.g., orange, lemon, lime, cherry)
- 1/2 teaspoon citric acid powder (for tartness)
- Optional: Food coloring (natural options like beet powder for red, turmeric for yellow)
- Optional: Granulated sugar for coating
Instructions
- In a small bowl, sprinkle the agar agar powder over 1/2 cup cold water. Let it bloom for 5-10 minutes until it becomes thick and spongy.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup boiling water. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is clear. Do not boil vigorously.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the bloomed agar agar to the hot sugar mixture, stirring continuously until the agar agar is fully dissolved and there are no lumps.
- Stir in the concentrated fruit juice and citric acid powder. If using food coloring, add a few drops now and mix well until desired color is achieved.
- Carefully pour the mixture into silicone candy molds (small shapes work best). You can lightly grease molds with a neutral oil if not using silicone.
- Transfer the molds to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2-3 hours, or until the candies are firm and set.
- Once set, gently pop the jelly candies out of their molds.
- (Optional) For a classic finish, roll the candies in granulated sugar immediately after unmolding.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Notes
For best results, use high-quality fruit juice for a true flavor burst. Experiment with different juices like grape, apple, or even a mix! If you prefer a firmer candy, you can add an extra half tablespoon of agar agar. To achieve a sparkling, slightly tart exterior, roll the unmolded candies in a mix of granulated sugar and a pinch of citric acid. These make fantastic edible gifts when packaged in pretty bags!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake, Chilling
- Cuisine: Confectionery
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 candies
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
