Introduction
Chamomile and Honey Gummy Bears are a delightful, homemade treat that combines the soothing properties of chamomile with the natural sweetness of honey. These gummies are not only fun to eat but also offer a calming effect, making them perfect for a bedtime snack or a soothing treat during the day. Easy to make and free from artificial ingredients, these gummy bears are a great alternative to store-bought candies.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe for Chamomile and Honey Gummy Bears is simple and straightforward, requiring only a few basic ingredients: chamomile tea, honey, gelatin, and water. The preparation involves steeping chamomile tea, mixing it with honey and gelatin, and then pouring the mixture into gummy bear molds. After a few hours in the refrigerator, the result is a batch of soft, chewy gummies that are both tasty and beneficial.
With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a total time of about 2 hours and 20 minutes (including chilling time), this recipe yields approximately 50 gummy bears. Each gummy contains only 12 calories, making it a guilt-free treat.
Ingredients
For the Gummy Bears:
- 1 cup water
- 2 chamomile tea bags or 2 tablespoons dried chamomile flowers
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons gelatin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Silicone gummy bear molds
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chamomile Tea:
- In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil over medium heat.
- Once the water reaches a rolling boil, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Add the chamomile tea bags or dried chamomile flowers to the hot water.
- Cover the saucepan and let the tea steep for 10 minutes to extract the full flavor and benefits of the chamomile.
2. Strain the Tea:
- After 10 minutes, strain the chamomile-infused water into a bowl using a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the tea bags or flowers.
- Pour the strained chamomile water back into the saucepan.
3. Add Honey:
- Place the saucepan with the chamomile water over low heat.
- Add 1/4 cup of honey to the chamomile water.
- Stir the mixture gently until the honey is fully dissolved. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to let the mixture boil.
4. Incorporate Gelatin:
- Gradually sprinkle 2 tablespoons of gelatin powder over the chamomile-honey mixture.
- Whisk continuously as you add the gelatin to avoid any lumps forming.
- Continue whisking until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture becomes smooth and uniform.
5. Optional: Add Vanilla Extract:
- If you want to add a hint of extra flavor, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract at this stage. This step is optional but adds a nice touch to the gummies.
6. Fill the Molds:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Using a dropper or a small spoon, carefully fill the silicone gummy bear molds with the chamomile-honey mixture.
- Make sure to fill each mold evenly to create consistent gummy bears.
7. Refrigerate and Set:
- Place the filled molds in the refrigerator.
- Let the gummy bears chill for at least 2 hours, or until they are firm and fully set.
8. Remove and Store:
- Once set, gently pop the gummy bears out of the silicone molds.
- Store the gummy bears in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- These gummies can be stored for up to 2 weeks, retaining their flavor and texture.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Chamomile and Honey Gummy Bears can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or paired with a cup of herbal tea for an extra dose of relaxation. They make a wonderful addition to a self-care routine, offering a soothing treat before bed or during a mid-afternoon break. You can also include these gummy bears in a homemade gift basket, alongside other homemade treats like granola or cookies.
Variations of the Recipe
1. Lemon Chamomile Gummy Bears:
Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to the chamomile-honey mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey.
2. Lavender Chamomile Gummy Bears:
Infuse the water with a small amount of dried lavender along with the chamomile for a floral twist. Be sure to strain the mixture well to remove the lavender before adding the honey and gelatin.
3. Ginger Chamomile Gummy Bears:
Add a slice of fresh ginger to the water while boiling for a subtle spicy note. Remove the ginger before adding the gelatin for a warm, soothing flavor.
4. Mixed Berry Chamomile Gummy Bears:
Replace half of the water with berry juice (like blueberry or raspberry) for a fruity version of the gummy bears. The juice will also give the gummies a vibrant color.
Health Benefits Notes
Chamomile tea is well-known for its calming effects, making these gummy bears a great option for promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Chamomile has been traditionally used to aid sleep, soothe digestive issues, and support overall wellness.
Honey, a natural sweetener, also offers antibacterial and antioxidant properties, contributing to the health benefits of these gummies.
Gelatin is another beneficial ingredient, as it is rich in collagen, which supports joint health, skin elasticity, and digestion.
These gummy bears provide a natural way to enjoy these health benefits in a convenient, tasty form.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of tea for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chamomile with other herbal teas like peppermint, hibiscus, or green tea. Each tea will impart its own unique flavor and benefits to the gummy bears.
2. Can I use agar-agar instead of gelatin to make these gummies vegan?
Yes, you can replace gelatin with agar-agar for a vegan version. Use the same amount of agar-agar powder, but note that the texture will be slightly firmer.
3. How do I prevent the gummies from sticking to the mold?
Silicone molds usually prevent sticking, but if you have trouble, lightly greasing the molds with a neutral oil like coconut oil can help. Alternatively, you can dust the molds with a small amount of cornstarch.
4. Can I add other flavors or ingredients to the gummies?
Absolutely! You can experiment with adding fruit juices, essential oils (like lemon or orange), or even a bit of zest for additional flavor. Just be mindful of the liquid-to-gelatin ratio to ensure the gummies set properly.
5. What is the best way to store the gummy bears?
Store the gummy bears in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 2 weeks, maintaining their texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Chamomile and Honey Gummy Bears are a delightful, homemade treat that combines the soothing properties of chamomile tea with the natural sweetness of honey. Easy to make and versatile, these gummies are a perfect snack for both kids and adults. With options for variations and the added health benefits of chamomile and honey, this recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a comforting treat that’s both delicious and nourishing. Serve these gummies as a relaxing snack or include them in a homemade gift basket to share with friends and family.