Watermelon Gummies for Kids

Watermelon Gummies are a fun, refreshing and nourishing snack for kids, these are a must-try for kids and toddlers!

Made with just simple ingredients, these gummies are naturally sweetened with fresh watermelon, contain no added sugar or artificial colours, and provide a little extra protein and gut-loving goodness, thanks to the addition of grass-fed beef Gelatin.

As a paediatric dietitian and mum of three, I love finding simple ways to make homemade snacks that kids enjoy, while adding a little extra nutrition along the way.

These watermelon gummies are a fun alternative to store-bought lollies and a great way to use up leftover watermelon. Plus, they're easy to prepare ahead of time and keep in the fridge for a refreshing snack.

Watermelon provides natural sweetness, hydration and vitamin C, while the Gelatin adds protein. You can also add the optional chia seeds for a little extra fibre and healthy fats.

They're also a fun recipe to make with kids, especially when using different silicone moulds to create their favourite shapes, and I am already getting in the Christmas spirit with these shapes, much to my daughters delight.

Why gelatin?

Grassfed beef Gelatin is a protein derived from collagen, which is naturally found in animal connective tissues.

It's what gives these gummies their soft, jelly-like texture, but it also provides some nutritional benefits.

• Source of protein: Gelatin provides amino acids that contribute to overall protein intake, although it is not a complete protein and shouldn't replace other protein-rich foods.

• Provides glycine: Gelatin is particularly rich in glycine, an amino acid involved in the body's production of proteins, including collagen.

• Contains collagen-related amino acids: These amino acids are involved in maintaining normal connective tissues, including skin, cartilage and bones.

  
  

Homemade Watermelon Gummies

Prep time: 10 minutes

Setting time: 2 hours

Ingredients: 2 or 3 including optional chia seeds

Ingredients

- ¼ cup unflavoured grass-fed beef Gelatin powder

- 1½ cups fresh watermelon juice (approximately 3 cups diced watermelon)

- 1–2 teaspoons chia seeds (optional, for extra fibre)

Method

1. Add the diced watermelon to a blender and blend until smooth and juice-like in consistency.

2. Pour the watermelon juice through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any seeds and excess pulp, you will need a total of 1.5 cups of the strained watermelon juice.

3. In a small bowl, add ½ cup of the watermelon juice. Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the juice and stir until a thick, even paste forms. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to (this process is called 'bloom'.)

4. Pour the remaining 1 cup of watermelon juice into a saucepan and gently warm over very low heat. You only want the juice to be warmed sligtly enough to dissolve the gelatin, not boiling.

5. Slowly pour the warmed watermelon juice over the Gelatin mixture, stirring continuously until the gelatin has completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

6. If using chia seeds, now is the time to stir through 1–2 teaspoons for some extra fibre.

7. Carefully pour the mixture into silicone moulds or a shallow dish.

8. Place in the refrigerator for approximately 2 hours, or until completely set.

9. Once set, gently remove the gummies from the moulds and transfer to an airtight container.

Storage

Store your watermelon gummies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

A Note on Safety:

Gummies and jelly-like foods can present a choking risk for young children, particularly when they're firm, chewy or moulded into small shapes. Ensure the texture and size are appropriate for a younger childs chewing abilities and always supervise eating.

These homemade watermelon gummies are such a simple way to turn fresh fruit into something a little different. A fun, refreshing snack that kids will love!

X Anna