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Gelatin has many benefits from improving gut health and digestion to firming skin, protecting joints and maintaining strong bones. So I'm always keen to find ways to get more gelatin (or collagen) in our diet. These are delicious and super easy to make. They don't last long in my house - my two boys love them. Especially if you use star wars silicone moulds!
These healthy "lollies"can be made with any juice you like (preferably freshly
squeezed). But this flavour combination is my favourite, and it is a great way to use up the juice from a can of tinned pineapple. Plus it gives a dose of vitamin C from the freshly squeezed orange. No pineapple juice? Just make orange ones. Or try blueberry? Or maybe lemon and lime?
For those doTERRA essential oil lovers like myself, you can add a drop or two of doTERRA On Guard - the protective blend. It is used to support healthy immune and respiratory function, plus protect against environmental threats. It is one of the most popular doTERRA oils and a great addition to every family homes natural solutions kit. I even use it in my natural kitchen bench spray.
(Note: There is a lot of debate on whether you should ingest essential oils as they are very powerful. I personally have not heard of any reactions to taking this oil internally, but everyone is different. Some oils should definitely not be ingested, so please consult with your health practitioner before doing so. I also believe essential oils or any herbal anti-microbial should not be taken internally on a frequent basis, but saved for when really needed).
For some of the research on it's potential antimicrobial properties check out On Guard essential oil - essential for every home. To purchase or if you need to know "Why doTERRA essential oils?" click here).
I was a little concerned my kids would find the On Guard too overpowering or "spicy" (it contains essential oils from clove bud, cinnamon bark/leaf, eucalyptus leaf, rosemary leaf and wild orange peel). However they didn't have any problem with the one drop I added to the mix. These On Guard gummies are then frozen and saved for the first sign of a cold/flu. The defrost rather quickly.
Gelatin Gummies
1 Cup of freshly squeezed juice (I used the leftover juice from one small 227g tin of pineapple in juice and then topped it up with freshly squeezed orange).
3 teaspoons of pure maple syrup or honey
4 Tablespoons of gelatin (I use Great Lakes unflavoured Gelatin Collagen Joint care)
1 drop of doTERRA On Guard essential oil (optional)
In a small saucepan add the juice and natural sweetener.
Gently heat, stirring to combine. Do not let it boil.
Sprinkle gelatin over the top stirring constantly to try to avoid lumps. (When i get lumps I press them against the saucepan and continue stirring).
Heat very gently for a couple of minutes (do not boil). Keep stirring.
If adding the essential oil, take the sauce pan off the heat while continuing to stir. Then leave to cool a little before adding 1 or 2 drops of oil. (Heat can damage the oil).
Pour into silicone moulds. (See tip below).
Place in the freezer for around 10 minutes to set.
Once set, remove from moulds and place in an airtight container. They will keep longer if stored in the fridge.
Rinse your saucepan immediately to make clean up easier.
Tips & notes:
You can use less gelatin and it will still gel. However I like to pack in as much goodness as possible.
I have found some fun novelty silicone moulds (ice cube trays) at Kmart. For themed moulds for kids birthday parties I'd recommend checking online.
For this recipe you will probably need at least two moulds as it will make around 20 small gelatin "lollies".
Some freshly squeezed juices aren't as sweet and may require additional added sweetener. Taste the juice first and then decide.