How to Make Gummy Candy from Fruit Peels: A Simple Guide
Do you find yourself throwing away fruit peels more often than you would like? What if I told you that those peels could be turned into a delightful treat? That’s right, gummy candy made from fruit peels! It’s a fantastic way to reduce waste and satisfy your sweet tooth at the same time. Making gummy candy from fruit peels is not only easy but also a fun activity you can do at home. Here’s a simple guide on how you can turn those peels into delicious gummy candies.
1. Collect Your Fruit Peels
First thing first, you’ll need fruit peels. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are perfect for this recipe because their peels have a strong flavor and pleasant aroma. Make sure you wash the fruits thoroughly before peeling them. This step will ensure you’re starting with clean peels, free of any pesticides or dirt.
2. Prepare the Peels
Once you have your peels, it’s time to prepare them. Here’s how:
– Cut the peels into small strips or any shape you prefer.
– Put the peels in a saucepan and cover them with water.
– Bring the water to boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This process will help remove the bitterness from the peels.
– Drain the water and rinse the peels under cold water.
3. Make the Candy Mixture
Now, let’s get to the exciting part – turning those peels into gummies! You will need:
– 1 cup of water
– 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
– 2-3 tablespoons of gelatin powder (adjust based on how chewy you want your candies)
– 1/2 cup of sugar (you can add more if you prefer sweeter candies)
– Optional: food coloring or natural flavors for extra taste
Here’s what to do next:
– In a saucepan, mix the water, lemon juice, and sugar. Heat the mixture on low heat until the sugar completely dissolves.
– Sprinkle the gelatin powder over the liquid and stir until the gelatin dissolves. This might take a few minutes, so be patient.
– Once the gelatin is fully dissolved, add the prepared fruit peels into the mixture. Stir well to make sure the peels are evenly coated.
– If you’re using any food coloring or flavorings, add them now.
4. Setting Your Gummies
Now that your gummy mixture is ready, it’s time to let it set:
– Pour the mixture into silicone molds. If you don’t have silicone molds, you can simply grease a baking dish and pour the mixture into it.
– Let the gummies set by placing them in the refrigerator. This could take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the thickness of your candies.
– Once set, if you used a baking dish, you could cut the gummy block into your desired shapes.
5. Finishing Touches
For an extra touch of sweetness and to prevent the gummies from sticking, you can roll them in a bit of granulated sugar. This step is optional but highly recommended for that classic gummy candy feel.
Tips and Tricks
- Experiment with different fruits and combinations to find your favorite flavors.
- For vegan gummies, consider using agar powder instead of gelatin.
- Adding vitamin C powder can boost the nutritional value of your candies and add a tangy kick.
Why Make Gummy Candy from Fruit Peels?
Making gummy candy from fruit peels is not just a fun kitchen experiment; it’s also a step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. Instead of tossing those peels away, you’re giving them a delicious second life. Plus, you get to control the ingredients, which means you can adjust the sweetness, add natural flavors, and avoid artificial additives found in many store-bought candies.
Wrapping It Up
Who knew that something as simple as fruit peels could be transformed into a yummy treat? Making gummy candy from fruit peels is a fun, easy, and eco-friendly activity that anyone can try. It’s a sweet way to reduce waste and enjoy a healthier alternative to processed candies. So, the next time you’re about to throw away those fruit peels, remember this simple guide and give them a tasty new purpose. Happy gummy making!
