The vibrant colors of mango, carrot, and strawberries immediately catch the eye, promising a delightful explosion of flavor in every bite. With warmer weather approaching, I find myself gravitating towards refreshing, wholesome treats that don’t just tantalize the taste buds but also nourish the body. Enter my homemade healthy fruit snacks — a perfect answer to those days when you crave something sweet without the guilt of processed sugar.
After a particularly hectic week, I wanted to whip up something that would not only satisfy my sweet tooth but also keep my energy levels up. Armed with fresh fruits and a little creativity, I discovered that making these perfectly chewy snacks is as simple as blending ingredients. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up that forgotten mango sitting on the counter. So why not turn this kitchen project into a fun activity with the kids or a delightful treat to surprise your guests? Trust me; once you taste these vibrant fruit bites, your fast-food cravings will be a thing of the past!
Why are Healthy Homemade Fruit Snacks a hit?
Vibrant colors: The stunning mix of mango, carrot, and strawberries makes these fruit snacks a feast for the eyes and taste buds.
Simple process: With just a few easy steps, you can whip up these delectable bites in no time!
Wholesome ingredients: Packed with natural sweetness from fruits and honey, these snacks are guilt-free.
Customizable shapes: Use fun mini pie cutters to create shapes that kids will love.
Nutrition boost: With only 14 calories and no added sugars, they provide a healthy snack alternative.
Great for sharing: Perfect for gatherings or lunch boxes, your friends and family will rave about these treats!
Healthy Homemade Fruit Snacks Ingredients
For the Base
• Diced mango chunks – 1 1/2 cups gives a sweet and tropical flavor that forms the heart of our fruit snacks.
• Medium carrot – Adding this boosts the nutrients while providing a gentle earthy sweetness.
• Halved strawberries – 2 cups deliver freshness and a juicy kick that balances the flavors.
• Small beet – One beet not only enhances color but adds a subtle sweetness and extra vitamins.
For the Mixture
• Honey – 2 tablespoons of this natural sweetener helps create the perfect taste and binds the ingredients together.
• Water – 1/4 cup is essential for blending the fruits into a smooth, silky puree.
• Grass-fed beef gelatin powder – 5 tablespoons create that delightful chewy texture that makes these healthy homemade fruit snacks satisfying!
Feel free to experiment with different fruits or adjust the sweetness to fit your taste!
How to Make Healthy Homemade Fruit Snacks
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Prepare the Pan: Line a 9″ bread loaf pan with parchment paper and generously spray it with cooking spray. This ensures easy removal after setting.
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Blend the Fruits: Place the diced mango, steamed carrot, halved strawberries, and steamed beet into a high-speed blender. Blend until the mixture is velvety smooth, which should take about 5 minutes.
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Sweeten and Adjust: Pour in the honey and water, then blend the mixture again. Taste it—add more honey if you prefer a sweeter treat, and give it another quick blend.
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Sprinkle the Gelatin: Pour the freshly blended mixture into a large-bottomed stock pot. Gently sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the top, and allow it to rest for 5 minutes without stirring.
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Whisk Together: Once the mixture appears wrinkled on the surface, whisk the gelatin into the fruit puree. Turn the burner to medium, whisking continuously until everything is smooth—avoid boiling.
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Pour and Set: Transfer the mixture into your prepared loaf pan. Let it set for at least 3-4 hours, or ideally overnight, for the best texture.
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Cut into Shapes: After setting, use mini pie cutters to create fun shapes. Cut the leftover scraps into smaller pieces and mix them with the shapes for extra fun!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of coconut flakes on top for added texture and sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Healthy Homemade Fruit Snacks
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Choose Ripe Fruits: Use perfectly ripe mangoes and strawberries to enhance natural sweetness and flavor. Overripe fruits can alter the texture.
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Gelatin Technique: When adding gelatin, ensure no clumping by letting it sit on the surface for 5 minutes before whisking. This ensures smooth, chewy fruit snacks.
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Adjust Sweetness: If you’re unsure about sweetness, start with less honey and add more gradually. Taste testing is key to finding your perfect balance!
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Blending Time: Ensure thorough blending for a silky-smooth texture. A less blended mixture can lead to an odd consistency in your healthy homemade fruit snacks.
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Fun Shapes: Use different cookie cutters to create seasonal or themed shapes. This is a great way to engage kids in the kitchen while making snacking fun!
Make Ahead Options
These Healthy Homemade Fruit Snacks are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the fruit puree (mango, carrot, strawberries, and beet) up to 24 hours in advance; simply blend and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The gelatin step can also be done up to a day ahead, ensuring maximum convenience. If you prefer, let the mixture set overnight so it’s ready to cut into fun shapes whenever you need a tasty snack. To maintain the quality of your snacks, make sure they are well-wrapped or stored in a sealed container after cutting, keeping them fresh and chewy for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, you’ll have delicious, colorful treats with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Healthy Homemade Fruit Snacks?
Brighten your snack time with a delicious assortment of pairings that beautifully complement these colorful treats.
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Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds a tangy richness that balances the natural sweetness of the fruit snacks. Perfect for a quick snack or breakfast.
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Nut Butter Dippers: Almond or peanut butter provides a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with the fruit’s sweetness. Kids will love dipping!
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Cheesy Slices: A slice of mild cheese, like Gouda or cheddar, offers a delightful contrast in texture and flavor that enhances every bite. The creaminess elevates the fruit snacks delightfully.
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Granola Clusters: Homemade granola adds crunch and heartiness, making the perfect accompaniment to fruit snacks for a wholesome on-the-go treat.
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Fresh Mint Sprigs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped mint brightens flavors and adds a refreshing touch that elevates your snacking experience.
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Fruit-Infused Water: Serve these snacks with a glass of infused water—think cucumber, lemon, or berries—for a fruity and hydrating pairing that’s as refreshing as it is colorful.
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Chocolate Dipping Sauce: A warm drizzle of dark chocolate sauce adds a decadent touch that transforms these healthy snacks into an indulgent dessert!
Healthy Homemade Fruit Snacks Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your fruit snacks into your own masterpieces!
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Tropical Twist: Substitute diced pineapple for the mango for a refreshing, tangy flavor that brightens every bite.
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Berry Blast: Replace the strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a burst of antioxidants and vibrant color.
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Veggie Power: Add some spinach to the mixture for an extra nutritional boost without compromising taste or texture.
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Sugar-Free Option: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit to keep them sweet, while cutting out natural sugars.
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Sour Punch: Mix in some lime or lemon juice to give your snacks a tangy zing that perks up the sweetness beautifully.
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Nutty Delight: Incorporate almond or peanut butter into the mix for a creamier texture and a nutty flavor that satisfies.
Imagine the possibilities in your kitchen! Exploring these variations will make each batch as unique as your family’s tastes.
How to Store and Freeze Healthy Homemade Fruit Snacks
Fridge: Store your fruit snacks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for snacking!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fruit snacks in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen snacks, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes or pop them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating: These healthy homemade fruit snacks are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, maintaining their delightful chewy texture.
Mango Carrot and Strawberry-Beet Fruit Snacks Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe mangoes and strawberries for the recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, select mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. The skin should have a golden hue with some slight red blush. For strawberries, look for bright red berries with green, healthy tops. Avoid any that have dark spots or feel overly soft.
How should I store the fruit snacks after making them?
Very simple! Once completely set, place your healthy homemade fruit snacks in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 5 days. Make sure to keep them away from strong-smelling foods to preserve their sweet aroma.
Can I freeze the fruit snacks for longer storage?
Absolutely! To freeze, first lay the fruit snacks in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place the sheet in the freezer until the snacks are solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. These frozen goodies will last for up to 3 months!
What should I do if my mixture doesn’t set properly?
Don’t worry; it happens! If the mixture doesn’t set, this can be due to insufficient gelatin or if the mixture boiled. To resolve this, try blending in an additional tablespoon of gelatin. Warm the mixture gently while whisking until smooth, then pour it back into the loaf pan to set again for several hours.
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! Since this recipe includes fruits, honey, and grass-fed beef gelatin, it’s advisable to check for allergies, especially to gelatin, which may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans. If needed, you can substitute gelatin with agar-agar as a plant-based alternative, but the texture may differ.
Can I adjust the sweetness in my fruit snacks?
Absolutely! Taste testing your mixture is crucial. Start with the suggested amount of honey, then blend and taste. If you prefer it sweeter, gradually add more honey, blending after each addition until you reach your desired sweetness. Making these healthy homemade fruit snacks your own is what makes them truly special!
Delicious Healthy Homemade Fruit Snacks You’ll Love to Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line a 9" bread loaf pan with parchment paper and generously spray it with cooking spray.
- Blend diced mango, steamed carrot, halved strawberries, and steamed beet until velvety smooth.
- Pour in honey and water; blend again. Adjust sweetness to taste.
- Pour mixture into a stock pot, sprinkle gelatin over the top, and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Whisk the gelatin into the puree while cooking on medium heat, whisking until smooth.
- Transfer mixture into the prepared loaf pan and let set for at least 3-4 hours, or overnight.
- After setting, use mini pie cutters to create fun shapes; mix scraps with the shapes.