Vibrant Vegan Fruit Gelatin Cups
Indulge in these refreshing Vibrant Vegan Fruit Gelatin Cups that not only burst with flavor but are also a healthier, homemade alternative to store-bought fruit jello cups. Utilizing agar-agar as a setting agent, these colorful treats are perfect for kids and adults alike. The recipe is simple enough for little hands to help with (with some adult supervision for the boiling part) and each cup provides two servings of delicious fruits. For added fun, surprise the kids by placing soft gummy vitamins in the center before they set in the fridge - they’ll become delightful ‘surprises’ in the middle! You can customize these cups using fresh fruits blended into a puree for younger children, ensuring a nutrient-packed snack that’s also sneaky in a good way. Store them in stackable mini-ziplock containers for easy access or repurpose empty pudding cups covered with foil. Perfect for lunchboxes or a mid-afternoon snack, these cups are sure to delight!
7
Servings
17
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Agar-agar flakes
1 tablespoon (or 1 teaspoon of agar powder)
White sugar or Splenda
2 tablespoons
Boiling fruit juice
2 cups (Apple juice is recommended; avoid real pineapple or kiwi)
Canned mixed fruit
1 (14 ounce) can ((or any choice of canned fruit, avoiding pineapple or kiwi))
Fresh fruit
as desired (cleaned and cut into small chunks; avoid kiwi or pineapple)
Lemon juice
1-2 tablespoons (for fresh cut fruit preservation (optional))
Orange juice
1-2 tablespoons (for fresh cut fruit preservation (optional))
Food coloring
as desired ((optional))
Instructions
1
If using fresh fruit, wash and peel tougher skins (e.g., apples, pears, oranges, melons) and chop them into small chunks suitable for younger children to enjoy. Toss the cut fruit with an anti-browning agent like lemon or orange juice to maintain freshness.
2
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of your chosen fruit juice, agar-agar, and sugar. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the agar-agar and sugar are completely dissolved. Note: If using Splenda, let the mixture cool slightly before adding it, as boiling can alter its texture.
3
Open the can of mixed fruit and drain off the juice.
4
Prepare your cups by placing them in a line. Pour the agar-juice mixture into the cups, filling them about halfway. For color, add a single drop of food coloring to each cup if desired and mix gently with a spoon until the preferred color is achieved. Use small amounts to not overpower the visual of the fruit within.
5
Add roughly 2 tablespoons of the chunked fruit to each filled cup, allowing the fruit to naturally settle at the bottom while raising the liquid level to about 1/4 inch from the top.
6
Cover the cups and place them in the refrigerator for about 2-4 hours, or until they are softly set. Enjoy this colorful and fruity treat that offers two servings of fruit in every cup!
Nutrition Information
0g
Fat
4g
Carbs
0g
Protein
0g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Vibrant Vegan Fruit Gelatin Cups?
They are a refreshing, homemade, and healthier alternative to store-bought fruit jello cups, using agar-agar as a plant-based setting agent.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegan as it uses agar-agar, a seaweed-derived substance, instead of animal-based gelatin.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 7 servings.
What is the setting agent used in these fruit cups?
The recipe uses agar-agar flakes or powder as the setting agent.
Can I use agar powder instead of flakes?
Yes, you can use 1 teaspoon of agar powder instead of 1 tablespoon of agar-agar flakes.
Which fruit juice is recommended for the base?
Apple juice is highly recommended, but you can use any fruit juice except for real pineapple or kiwi juice.
Why should I avoid using real pineapple or kiwi?
Real pineapple and kiwi contain enzymes that can prevent the agar-agar from setting properly.
How many calories are in each serving?
Each serving contains approximately 17 calories.
Can I use a sugar substitute like Splenda?
Yes, you can use 2 tablespoons of Splenda instead of white sugar.
When should I add Splenda to the mixture?
If using Splenda, let the juice mixture cool slightly before adding it, as boiling can sometimes alter its texture.
How long do I need to boil the juice mixture?
Bring the mixture to a boil and then simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the agar and sugar are dissolved.
How do I prevent fresh fruit chunks from browning?
Toss the cut fresh fruit with an anti-browning agent like 1-2 tablespoons of lemon or orange juice.
Do I need to drain the canned fruit?
Yes, you should open the can and drain off the juice before adding the fruit chunks to the cups.
Can I add food coloring to the gelatin?
Yes, you can add a single drop of food coloring to each cup and mix gently for added visual appeal.
How much fruit should I add to each cup?
Add roughly 2 tablespoons of chunked fruit to each cup.
How long does it take for the cups to set in the fridge?
The cups should be refrigerated for about 2 to 4 hours, or until they are softly set.
What is a fun way to include vitamins for kids?
You can place soft gummy vitamins in the center of the cups before they set for a delightful surprise.
How many servings of fruit does each cup provide?
Each cup provides approximately two servings of fruit.
Can I use fruit puree instead of chunks?
Yes, for younger children, you can blend fresh fruits into a puree to ensure a nutrient-packed snack.
What are the best containers for storage?
Stackable mini-ziplock containers or repurposed empty pudding cups covered with foil work perfectly.
Is there any fat in this recipe?
No, this recipe contains 0g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 4g of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content of these cups?
These gelatin cups contain 0g of protein.
Are these suitable for school lunchboxes?
Yes, they are an excellent, healthy snack for lunchboxes or mid-afternoon treats.
Can children help with the preparation?
Yes, children can help with assembly, though adult supervision is required for the boiling and simmering process.
Which fresh fruits require peeling?
Apples, pears, oranges, and melons should have their tougher skins peeled before being chopped.
How much juice is needed for the recipe?
You will need 2 cups of fruit juice.
What size of canned fruit is required?
The recipe calls for one 14-ounce can of mixed fruit.
Does the recipe contain any sodium or cholesterol?
According to the nutritional information provided, there is no significant sodium or cholesterol.
How much fiber is in each cup?
There is 0g of fiber listed per serving for this specific recipe.