Irresistible Strawberries and Pineapple Candy

looking for a natural and healthier alternative to store-bought candy, this Homemade Strawberries and Pineapple Candy recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the sweet, juicy flavors of fresh strawberries and pineapple with a touch of honey and vanilla, this treat is the perfect blend of fruity goodness. Whether you’re looking for a snack for your kids or a fun weekend project, this easy-to-make candy is the ultimate choice. Plus, it’s so simple that even beginners can whip it up in no time. Read on for the full recipe, and let’s dive into the irresistible world of homemade candy!

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Strawberries and Pineapple Candy

Natural Ingredients: No refined sugars—only pure honey or agave syrup for sweetness.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and a few hours of baking is all you need.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for healthy, guilt-free snacks throughout the week.
Vibrant Flavors: Fresh strawberries and pineapple come together for a candy that’s bursting with tropical flavor.
Low in Calories: At only 75 kcal per serving, you can indulge without the guilt!

Ingredients for Strawberries and Pineapple Candy

This homemade candy is made from just a handful of wholesome ingredients:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
½ cup honey (or agave syrup for a vegan version)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient Alternatives:

For a vegan version: Use agave syrup instead of honey.
Other fruit options: Try adding other fruits such as mango or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
Sweetener alternatives: Maple syrup or coconut sugar can also be used in place of honey.

How to Make Homemade Strawberries and Pineapple Candy – Step by Step

Step1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 175°F (80°C). If you have a dehydrator, this recipe works great with that as well.

Step2: Blend the Fruit

Place your diced strawberries, pineapple, honey, lemon juice, and vanilla extract into a blender or food processor. Blend everything until smooth and well combined. If you prefer a bit of texture in your candy, feel free to leave the mixture slightly chunky.

Step3: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the candy from sticking. Then, evenly spread the blended fruit mixture on the sheet, aiming for a thickness of about ¼ inch.

Step4: Bake the Mixture

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 4-5 hours. The mixture should be firm and no longer sticky to the touch. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn’t burn or over-dry. If you’re using a dehydrator, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying fruit leathers.

Step5: Cool and Cut

Once the fruit mixture is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely. After it has cooled, you can cut it into bite-sized squares or use a cookie cutter to make fun shapes like hearts or stars!

Step6: Store Your Candy

Once your candy is cut, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For a longer shelf life, refrigerate it, and it will last for several weeks.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Strawberries and Pineapple Candy

Thickness matters: Ensure the fruit mixture is spread evenly on the baking sheet. A consistent thickness ensures even drying and prevents some parts from burning.
Bake in intervals: If you’re worried about over-drying, check every hour and adjust as needed. You want the texture to be flexible but not sticky.
Flavor variations: Experiment by adding different fruits like peaches or apricots for a unique flavor combination.
Honey alternatives: If you’re allergic to honey, agave syrup or maple syrup will work well without altering the candy’s texture.

Best Ways to Serve Strawberries and Pineapple Candy

This homemade fruit candy can be enjoyed on its own as a sweet snack, but here are a few more ideas:

With yogurt: Add a piece of this candy on top of a bowl of plain yogurt for a delicious and healthy snack.
As a topping: Break it into pieces and use it as a topping for oatmeal, smoothie bowls, or ice cream.
In gift baskets: Package the candy in clear bags and give it as a fun homemade gift for holidays or birthdays.Nutritional Information for Strawberries and Pineapple Candy

Each serving of this homemade fruit candy is low in calories but still satisfying. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown per serving (about 1 piece):

Calories: 75 kcal
Carbs: 20g
Sugar: 17g (from natural fruit sugars)
Fat: 0g
Protein: 0g
Fiber: 2g

It’s a great snack for those following a low-calorie, fruit-based diet!

Storage & Leftovers for Strawberries and Pineapple Candy

This fruit candy stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or batch cooking. Here’s how to store it properly:

At Room Temperature: Store the candy in an airtight container for up to a week.
In the Refrigerator: If you want it to last longer, store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing: For long-term storage, you can freeze the candy. Place it in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it for about an hour before enjoying.

FAQs for Strawberries and Pineapple Candy

Q: Can I freeze strawberries and pineapple candy?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just store it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and it will last up to three months.

Q: What can I use instead of honey in this recipe?
You can substitute honey with agave syrup, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a different flavor or to make the recipe vegan.

Q: How long does homemade fruit candy last in the fridge?
Homemade fruit candy can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Q: Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add other fruits like mango, peaches, or blueberries to create unique flavor combinations.

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Conclusion

Now you know how to make the best homemade strawberries and pineapple candy at home! It’s simple, healthy, and absolutely delicious—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without any guilt. Have you tried this recipe yet? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your candy creations on social media!