Sweet Mango Carrot Gummies Packed with Hidden Veggies

These mango carrot fruit snacks are not only a colorful treat but also a healthy alternative to traditional gummies. The bright yellow mango and orange carrot combo creates a beautiful, vibrant snack that kids will love.

What’s even better is that these snacks pack in the nutrition. With the added benefit of grass-fed gelatin, each bite offers a good source of protein, while the honey adds a touch of natural sweetness. Perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or as a guilt-free treat any time of day!

Full Recipe:

• 1 1/2 cups diced mango chunks, defrosted if frozen

• 1 medium carrot, steamed until soft

• 2 tablespoons of honey (or to taste)

• 1/4 cup water

• 5 tablespoons grass-fed beef gelatin powder

Directions:

1. Line a 9-inch bread loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.

2. Place the mango and steamed carrot into a high-speed blender, along with water and honey. Blend for at least 5 minutes until the mixture is smooth.

3. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness with more honey if necessary. Blend again to combine.

4. Pour the mixture into a large stock pot. Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the top and let sit for 5 minutes without stirring.

5. Turn the heat to medium and whisk constantly until the gelatin has dissolved completely and the mixture is smooth. Be careful not to let it boil.

6. Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and allow it to set for at least 3-4 hours, or preferably overnight in the fridge.

7. Once set, cut into desired shapes using mini pie crust cutters or scissors for a fun shape.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 14 per serving | Servings: 75 pieces

History and Origin

While fruit snacks have been a beloved snack in many households for decades, the idea of incorporating vegetables into the mix is a more modern twist. Traditionally, fruit snacks were made from pureed fruits, sugar, and sometimes gelatin, and they were primarily marketed as a fun and portable snack for kids. The concept of making homemade fruit snacks is an innovation by health-conscious parents who want to avoid the artificial additives, excess sugar, and lack of nutrients found in many commercial versions.

The addition of vegetables like carrots and beets into fruit snacks brings this recipe into the realm of “sneaky nutrition,” a growing trend in home cooking that aims to provide kids with additional vitamins and minerals without them even knowing it. While the practice of sneaking vegetables into dishes isn’t entirely new, the rise of “hidden veggie” recipes in recent years has gained momentum, especially in the form of snacks. This Mango Carrot Fruit Snack recipe is a prime example of how fruits and veggies can be blended seamlessly into a healthy, delicious, and fun treat.

Variations and Adaptations

The beauty of homemade fruit snacks lies in their versatility. While the base recipe for Mango Carrot Fruit Snacks is simple and nutritious, you can easily adapt it to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few variations you might want to try:

1. Flavor Variations:

   • Strawberry-Beetroot Fruit Snacks: As shown in the recipe, you can create a similar snack using strawberries and beets. The sweetness of strawberries pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of beets, making for a vibrant, nutrient-packed treat.

   • Berry Blend Snacks: Swap out mango and carrot for mixed berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. These berries are rich in antioxidants and offer a tart, refreshing flavor profile.

   • Tropical Twist: Use other tropical fruits like pineapple or papaya instead of mango for a more exotic flavor. Combine with carrots or even sweet potato for added nutrients.

2. Sweetness Adjustments:
   The recipe uses honey to add sweetness, but you can substitute it with other natural sweeteners like maple syrup, agave nectar, or even stevia for a sugar-free version. Adjust the sweetness level based on your preferences or dietary needs.

3. Vegan Adaptation:
   While the original recipe calls for grass-fed beef gelatin, you can replace it with agar-agar or vegan-friendly gelatin to make this snack suitable for vegans and vegetarians. These plant-based alternatives work well to set the fruit mixture and create a similar chewy texture.

4. Add-ins:
   Want to add an extra nutritional boost? Consider blending in some chia seeds, flaxseeds, or even a scoop of protein powder to increase the protein content. You can also incorporate a small amount of coconut oil for healthy fats.

Nutritional Information

These homemade fruit snacks are not only delicious but also nutritious. They are a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, while still being low in sugar compared to their store-bought counterparts. Let’s break down the nutritional profile:

• Calories: Each fruit snack contains around 14 calories, making them a light and guilt-free treat.

• Protein: Thanks to the grass-fed beef gelatin, each piece packs in about 1 gram of protein, which helps in muscle recovery and overall body function.

• Carbohydrates: With only 2 grams of carbs per serving, these snacks are a great option for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake. The carbs mainly come from the fruit, which provides a natural source of sugars.

• Fats: The fat content is negligible, as this snack is low in fats but provides healthy nutrients from the gelatin and natural fruits.

• Micronutrients:

  • Vitamin A: Carrots are a rich source of beta-carotene, which is converted to Vitamin A in the body. This nutrient is essential for vision, immune health, and skin maintenance.

  • Vitamin C: Mangoes are a great source of Vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health.

  • Fiber: Although the fiber content is minimal, the fruits and carrots in the recipe do contribute to digestive health.

This snack is also gluten-free and can be easily adapted to fit vegan, paleo, or keto diets by making a few ingredient swaps. It’s a great snack to support a balanced diet while satisfying your sweet tooth without the extra sugar and additives found in commercial fruit snacks.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

While these Mango Carrot Fruit Snacks are perfect for on-the-go snacking, they can also be served creatively. Here are some ideas to elevate your snack experience:

1. Lunchbox Treats: Pack these fruit snacks in kids’ lunchboxes for a fun and healthy alternative to sugary snacks. Pair them with a side of nuts or a small portion of cheese for added protein.

2. Healthy Party Favors: These fruit snacks are a great option for healthy party favors, especially at birthday parties or gatherings where kids will be in attendance. You can use cookie cutters to make fun shapes like stars, hearts, or even animal shapes to match the theme of your party.

3. Snack with a Drink: These fruit snacks go wonderfully with a cold glass of freshly squeezed juice or a smoothie. For an added boost of protein, serve them alongside a protein shake or a yogurt parfait.

4. Make Them into a Dessert: You can layer these fruit snacks in a parfait with whipped cream, granola, and fresh fruit for a delicious dessert option. The chewy texture pairs nicely with the crunchy granola and creamy layers.

5. Fruit Snack Dip: Serve these fruit snacks with a yogurt-based dip. You can mix plain Greek yogurt with a little honey and vanilla for a creamy accompaniment.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Creating perfect homemade fruit snacks is easy, but a few tips can make the process even smoother:

• Blend Thoroughly: To get the smoothest texture, make sure to blend the fruit and veggies for at least 5 minutes. A high-speed blender works best to ensure no chunks remain, giving you a silky-smooth puree.

• Taste the Mixture: Before adding the gelatin, taste the puree. If you think it needs more sweetness, feel free to add extra honey. This is your chance to adjust the flavor to your liking.

• Use Parchment Paper: Lining your loaf pan with parchment paper is essential to ensure the fruit snacks come out easily once they’ve set. You can also use silicone molds for fun, bite-sized portions.

• Patience During Gelatin Setting: When you pour the fruit mixture into the pan, let it sit undisturbed for several hours to set properly. For best results, leave it in the fridge overnight.

Potential Health Benefits

These Mango Carrot Fruit Snacks come with a variety of potential health benefits thanks to their nutrient-dense ingredients:

• Improved Digestion: Carrots are a good source of dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion and regularity.

• Boosted Immunity: Mangoes provide a hefty dose of Vitamin C, which is vital for boosting immunity and protecting the body from infections.

• Protein Boost: The gelatin in the recipe is a great source of protein, which supports muscle building and tissue repair. Gelatin is also good for joint health and skin elasticity.

• Eye Health: The beta-carotene in carrots supports eye health and may even reduce the risk of certain age-related vision problems.

Conclusion

Homemade Mango Carrot Fruit Snacks are an excellent snack option for those looking to make healthier choices without sacrificing flavor. They offer the perfect balance of sweetness, nutrition, and fun, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a lunchbox treat, or a fun party favor, these fruit snacks have you covered. Plus, with the added benefit of protein and vitamins, they are more than just a tasty treat—they’re a great way to sneak some extra nutrition into your day.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your blender and get ready to enjoy this fun, healthy, and customizable snack that everyone will love!