sugar free gummy bear

Sugar Free Gummy Bear Recipe: Healthy Snacking Made Easy

Enjoy the Sweetness of Sugar Free Gummy Bears

What Is the Recipe for Sugar Free Gummy Bear?

🍬 SUGAR-FREE GUMMY BEAR RECIPE: Combine unflavored gelatin and water until dissolved. Add stevia or erythritol sweetener and vanilla extract. Pour into molds, refrigerate until firm. Enjoy these guilt-free, chewy treats!

Sugar-free gummy bears are a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional gummy candies.

Made without sugar, they offer the same chewy texture and fruity flavor you love, but without the added carbs.

Popular brands like SmartSweets and Albanese have created sugar-free versions that cater to those on a keto diet or anyone looking to reduce sugar intake.

In this post, we’ll explore what makes sugar-free gummy bears a great option, guide you through making them at home, and share tips on perfecting your recipe.

You’ll also find nutritional information, serving ideas, and answers to common questions about sugar-free gummies.

Whether you’re new to sugar-free treats or a seasoned keto enthusiast, this guide will help you enjoy a sweet snack without compromising your diet.

A white dish filled with colorful gummy bears on a marble surface, with a few gummies scattered around
A white dish filled with colorful gummy bears on a marble surface, with a few gummies scattered around

Table of Contents:

What Is a Gummy Bear?

A variety of colorful gummy bears spilled out of a glass jar onto a white surface
A variety of colorful gummy bears spilled out of a glass jar onto a white surface

A gummy bear is a small, chewy candy shaped like a bear, known for its fruity flavors and bright colors.

Traditionally, gummy bears are made from sugar, gelatin, and flavorings, which give them their signature texture and taste.

They’ve been a favorite treat for decades, enjoyed by kids and adults alike for their fun shape and sweet taste.

However, the classic gummi bear is high in sugar, making it less suitable for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

That’s where sugar-free gummy bears come in—they offer the same enjoyable chewiness and flavor without the sugar.

By using alternative sweeteners and maintaining the familiar texture, sugar-free gummy bears provide a guilt-free way to enjoy this beloved candy.

Is a Gummy Bear Keto-Friendly?

Chewable gummy bear vitamins spilled from a yellow bottle near fresh orange and lemon halves on a light surface
Chewable gummy bear vitamins spilled from a yellow bottle near fresh orange and lemon halves on a light surface

Traditional gummy bears aren’t keto-friendly because they’re packed with sugar, which can quickly add up in carbs and kick you out of ketosis.

The high sugar content in regular gummy bears makes them a no-go for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

However, sugar-free gummy bears are a different story. By replacing the sugar with keto-approved sweeteners like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit, these gummy bears become a tasty, low-carb option that fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle.

They allow you to satisfy your cravings for something sweet and chewy without the carb overload, making them a great snack for anyone committed to staying in ketosis.

Ingredients to Prepare

A variety of colorful gummy bears arranged in a semi-circle on a lavender surface, casting shadows
A variety of colorful gummy bears arranged in a semi-circle on a lavender surface, casting shadows

To make your sugar-free gummy bears, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in giving the gummy bears their texture and flavor.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Water: Essential for dissolving the gelatin and creating the gummy bear’s base. It helps achieve the desired texture of the gummy bears.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle hint of sweetness and depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste without adding sugar.
  • Unflavored Gelatin: The primary thickening agent, unflavored gelatin provides the chewy consistency characteristic of gummy bears.
  • Stevia or Erythritol: Natural sweeteners that substitute sugar, offering a sweet taste while keeping the gummy bears sugar-free. Stevia is a plant-derived sweetener, while erythritol is a sugar alcohol with minimal calories.

Ingredient Measurement

Getting the right measurements is crucial to ensure your gummy bears come out perfect every time. 

Here’s a basic breakdown:

  • 2 cups of water
  • ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 5 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin
  • ½ cup of stevia or erythritol

This ratio works well for a small batch, but if you want to double or triple it, be careful—it’s like handling a flammable liquid with a coffee straw. The laxative effect could make it feel like all hell broke loose if you overindulge in these sugar-free gummy bears.

Equipment You’ll Need

A child's hands reaching for colorful gummy bears scattered on a white surface
A child’s hands reaching for colorful gummy bears scattered on a white surface

Making sugar-free gummy bears at home requires a few basic kitchen tools:

  • Small saucepan
  • Microwave
  • Microwavable container
  • Blender
  • Measuring cup
  • Silicone mold
  • Baking sheet

How to Make Sugar Free Gummy Bears

Two glass jars filled with colorful gummy bears on a white table, with a few gummy bears standing upright in the foreground against a yellow background
Two glass jars filled with colorful gummy bears on a white table, with a few gummy bears standing upright in the foreground against a yellow background

Creating sugar-free gummy bears is simpler than you might think. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can whip up a tasty, guilt-free treat.

Ready to get started? Let’s walk through the steps to make your own sugar-free gummy bears.

Step 1: Prepare the Sweetened Water

  • In a small saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups of water with 1/2 cup of sugar substitute.
  • Heat the mixture just until the sugar substitute dissolves completely.
  • Taste the water to ensure it’s sweet enough, and add more sugar substitute if needed.

Step 2: Dissolve the Gelatin

  • In a microwave-safe container, heat 1/2 cup of water until it reaches a boil using a microwave or stovetop.
  • Quickly whisk 5 tablespoons of Unflavored Gelatin into the hot water.
  • For convenience, you can use a blender, as the mixture thickens rapidly. Afterward, pour the dissolved gelatin into the sweetened water.

Step 3: Flavor and Set the Jellies

  • Add a few drops of 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture.
  • Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Transfer the warm liquid to a measuring cup with a pour spout.
  • Using the provided eye droppers, carefully fill your silicone molds with the liquid mixture.
  • It’s helpful to place the molds on a baking sheet to make transferring them to the refrigerator easier.
  • Allow the jellies to set in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Once set, remove the jellies from the molds and enjoy!

Sugar Free Gummy Bear Nutrition

A pile of colorful gummy bears scattered on a white background
A pile of colorful gummy bears scattered on a white background

Sugar-free gummy bears offer a tasty treat without added sugar, making them a lower-calorie alternative to traditional gummi bears.

These snacks typically contain sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners, which can impact calorie count and digestibility.

While they provide fewer carbs and less sugar variety, it’s important to enjoy them in moderation due to the potential digestive effects of ingredients like maltitol or sorbitol.

  • Calories: 31 kcal
  • Total fats: 0 gram
  • Net carbs: 0.6 gram
  • Protein: 7.5 grams

With such a low carb count, you can enjoy these gummies guilt-free, whether you’re on a keto diet or just cutting back on sugar, unlike that silly woman who woke up early morning with food poisoning from indulging in sugary treats.

Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Sugar Free Gummy Bears

A white mug overflowing with colorful gummy bears, with more scattered around the base, set against a blue and white background
A white mug overflowing with colorful gummy bears, with more scattered around the base, set against a blue and white background

Making sugar-free gummy bears is simple, but a few tips can help you get the best results:

  • Choose the Right Sweetener: Opt for a natural sugar substitute like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit. These sweeteners mimic the sweetness of sugar without the added calories.
  • Use Gelatin for Texture: Gelatin is key for giving gummy bears their chewy texture. Make sure to use unflavored gelatin to avoid altering the taste of your gummy bears.
  • Add Flavor with Natural Ingredients: Use fruit juices or purees for natural flavoring. Concentrated juices work best as they add a stronger taste without excess liquid.
  • Enhance the Color Naturally: If you want vibrant gummy bears, consider using natural food colorings like beet juice for red, spinach juice for green, or turmeric for yellow.
  • Careful Heating: When dissolving gelatin and sweeteners, do so over low heat. Avoid boiling, as high temperatures can affect the texture and flavor.
  • Use Silicone Molds: Silicone molds are perfect for making gummy bears because they’re flexible and make it easy to pop out the gummies once they’re set.
  • Taste Test Before Setting: Before pouring your mixture into molds, taste it to ensure the sweetness and flavor are to your liking. Adjust as needed before the mixture sets.
  • Let Them Set Properly: Allow your gummy bears to set in the fridge for at least 2 hours. For a firmer texture, you can let them set overnight.
  • Store Correctly: Keep your sugar-free gummy bears in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their texture and freshness.
  • Experiment with Add-ins: For added health benefits, you can mix in vitamins, probiotics, or even a pinch of sea salt. Just make sure they dissolve well and don’t alter the texture.

These tips should help you create delicious sugar-free gummy bears with the right sweetness, texture, and flavor.

Nothing like when you finally decided to make gummies without a recipe and ended up with a gaping maw projectile vomiting of disaster, like a funnel Niagara Falls.

Trust me, mastering these tips is a walk in the park compared to that mess!

Serving and Pairing Ideas

A circle of colorful gummy bears standing upright on a white surface
A circle of colorful gummy bears standing upright on a white surface

Here’s a breakdown of serving and pairing ideas for sugar-free gummy bears:

Serving Ideas

  • Snack Time Treat: Enjoy sugar-free gummy bears as a quick and satisfying snack. They’re perfect for a midday pick-me-up without the sugar crash.
  • Dessert Addition: Add them to your favorite sugar-free desserts, such as yogurt or sugar-free ice cream, for a chewy and flavorful twist.
  • Party Snack: Serve them at parties or gatherings as a fun and health-conscious alternative to traditional candies.
  • Lunchbox Favorite: Pack them in lunchboxes as a sweet surprise for kids or adults looking for a healthier snack option.
  • Movie Night Munchies: Enjoy them while watching a movie or TV show for a guilt-free treat.

Pairing Ideas

  • Sugar-Free Beverages: Pair them with sugar-free drinks like flavored water or diet sodas to complement their sweetness without adding extra sugar.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Combine them with a mix of unsalted nuts and seeds for a balanced snack that includes protein and healthy fats.
  • Cheese Platter: Include them on a cheese platter alongside a selection of cheeses for a sweet and savory contrast.
  • Fruit Slices: Enjoy them with fresh fruit slices, such as apple or pear, for a refreshing and satisfying combination.
  • Herbal Teas: Pair them with herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint for a relaxing and sweet treat experience.

Feel free to mix and match these serving and pairing ideas to suit your tastes and occasion!

How to Store Sugar Free Gummy Bears

To keep your sugar-free gummy bears fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

They’ll stay good for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze them.

Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This way, they won’t stick together.

Avoid storing them in a humid environment to prevent them from becoming sticky. Proper storage ensures that your gummy bears remain chewy and flavorful for longer.

More Keto Recipes You Can Make at Home

If you loved making sugar-free gummy bears, you’ll enjoy trying these other keto-friendly recipes:

These recipes are all about making keto living more enjoyable without sacrificing flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Diabetics Eat Sugar-Free Gummy Bears?

Yes, diabetics can eat sugar-free gummy bears, but it’s important to check the sweeteners used.

Opt for sugar-free options with diabetes-friendly sweeteners like stevia or erythritol, which have minimal impact on blood sugar levels.

Always monitor your blood sugar response, as individual reactions to sugar alcohol can vary.

Is Sugar-Free Okay for Diabetics?

Sugar-free products are generally better for diabetics as they typically have lower sugar content.

However, it’s essential to choose options with sweeteners that don’t spike blood sugar levels, such as stevia or erythritol.

Some sugar alcohols can still affect blood sugar or cause digestive issues, so it’s crucial to read labels and monitor your response.

Are Gummy Bears Healthy?

Traditional gummy bears are not considered healthy due to their high sugar content and lack of nutritional value.

However, sugar-free gummy bears can be a healthier option, especially when made with keto-friendly sweeteners and minimal additives.

They offer a lower-calorie, low-carb alternative, but should still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Final Thoughts

Sugar-free gummy bears offer a tasty, low-carb alternative to traditional candies, making them a great choice for those on a keto diet or anyone looking to cut back on sugar.

We’ve covered how to make them, their nutritional benefits, and tips for getting the best results.

With their chewy texture and fruity flavor, these homemade treats can satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.

For more delicious keto recipes and helpful tips, visit our website. Enjoy your sweet, sugar-free treats!