Make your Valentine’s Day extra special with these Healthier Candy Hearts, a naturally sweetened and colorful alternative to the classic store-bought version. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these candy hearts are made with just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients, including monkfruit powdered sugar and natural colorants. They’re as delightful to make as they are to eat—plus, you can customize them with fun messages using food-safe markers!
Healthier Candy Heart Ingredients
Gelatin: Supports gut health and provides a boost of collagen. You can use my code “Stephanie10” to get 10% off Ossa Pasture Raised Gelatin.
Ginger Ale: Adds a touch of flavor while helping to dissolve the gelatin. I used Zevia since it has no added sugar or artificial sweeteners.
Monkfruit Powdered Sugar: A low-glycemic sweetener that keeps these hearts stay refined sugar-free.
Natural Colorants: Free from artificial dyes, offering vibrant, kid-friendly hues.
Tips for Perfect Healthier Candy Hearts
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the ginger ale is at room temperature to dissolve the gelatin evenly.
Adjust Powdered Sugar Gradually: Add powdered sugar slowly to avoid a sticky or overly dry dough.
Even Thickness: Use a silicone mat and rolling pin guides for uniform hearts.
Let Them Fully Dry: Allow at least 48 hours for proper air-drying to achieve that classic candy heart crunch.
Healthier Candy Hearts FAQs
1. Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, powdered erythritol or a similar substitute can work. The texture may vary slightly.
2. How long do these candy hearts last?
Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks at room temperature.
3. Can I make these vegan?
You can try substituting the gelatin with agar agar, but the texture will be slightly different.
4. What natural colorants work best?
Beet powder for red/pink, turmeric for yellow, matcha for green, and butterfly pea powder or blue spirulina for blue.
Check out these other Valentine's Day recipes!
Candy Hearts
Ingredients
- 3/4 tsp pasture-raised gelatin
- 1/4 cup ginger ale room temperature
- Dash of sea salt
- 2 cups monkfruit powdered sugar
- Natural colorants
Instructions
Dissolve the Gelatin:
- Mix the gelatin with the ginger ale in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave in 10-second intervals until fully dissolved (approximately 30 seconds for room-temperature ginger ale).
Form the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the dissolved gelatin, sea salt, and 1 cup powdered sugar.
- Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar until the dough reaches a playdough-like consistency.
Divide and Color:
- Divide the dough into separate balls based on the number of colors you’d like.
- Return one ball to the bowl, add natural colorant, and mix until evenly distributed. Repeat for all colors.
Roll and Cut:
- Dust a silicone mat or parchment paper with powdered sugar. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness.
- Use a small heart-shaped cutter to cut out shapes. Gently tap the cutter to release each heart.
Dry the Hearts:
- Place the hearts on a parchment-lined tray. Air dry for 24 hours, flip them, and dry for another 24 hours.
Customize:
- Once completely dry, use food-safe markers to write sweet messages on each heart.
