Chewy Strawberry Licorice Bites

Name: Chewy Strawberry Licorice Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 20 bites
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and pureed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup corn syrup; 1/4 cup water; 1 tablespoon gelatin powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts

I love making these Chewy Strawberry Licorice Bites because they remind me of summer days spent at the fair. The natural sweetness of fresh strawberries combines beautifully with the chewy texture that’s perfect for a quick snack. We often make these bites together during the weekends, and the kids can't get enough of them! They're not just delicious but also surprisingly simple to whip up, making them a great choice for both seasoned candy makers and beginners alike.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-27T12:58:28.238Z

Making these Chewy Strawberry Licorice Bites was a delightful afternoon project that my family thoroughly enjoyed. We experimented with different concentrations of strawberry puree to achieve just the right flavor balance. The key is to not overcook the mixture as it can become too firm, so watch it carefully!

This method is a great way to incorporate fresh strawberries into a sweet treat that packs a punch. I recommend laying the bites out on parchment paper to cool completely, which helps them retain their chewy texture while setting perfectly.

Why You'll Love These Licorice Bites
Natural strawberry flavor that shines through
A fun and chewy texture that kids love
Perfect for sharing or as a special treat

Mastering the Perfect Chewy Texture

Achieving that delightful chewy texture is the key to making these strawberry licorice bites a success. The gelatin plays a crucial role, providing the elasticity you want. Make sure to sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the warm mixture while stirring continuously, as clumps can lead to an uneven texture. If you find your bites aren't as chewy as you'd like after cooling, you can experiment with slightly increasing the gelatin next time; just remember that too much can make them too firm.

Cooling the mixture properly is also essential. Allow it to sit at room temperature for around 30 minutes before transferring to the fridge. This step helps the bite-sized pieces maintain their shape. If you notice they’re a bit too soft after cooling, make a note to increase the cooling time next time, or adjust the gelatin content. A proper balance of these elements will give you that satisfying chew that keeps everyone reaching for just one more.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

Using fresh strawberries is key to achieving the vibrant flavor and color in these bites. However, if strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen strawberries; just thaw and puree them properly before cooking. The granulated sugar adds sweetness, but you could use alternatives like coconut sugar or honey, keeping in mind that it might alter the flavor profile slightly. For a vegan option, consider using agar-agar instead of gelatin, but note that this may result in a different texture.

Corn syrup is used to prevent crystallization and ensure a smooth mixture. If you're looking to avoid corn syrup, agave syrup can be a suitable substitute, although it might slightly change the final texture. Finally, the lemon juice helps to enhance the natural strawberry flavor. If you want to switch it up, lime juice can work as an alternative while imparting a unique twist to the overall taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and pureed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup corn syrup
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon gelatin powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious licorice bites:

Prepare the Mixture

In a saucepan, combine the strawberry puree, sugar, corn syrup, and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.

Add Gelatin

Sprinkle gelatin powder over the mixture while stirring continuously to avoid clumps. Continue to cook until everything is well combined.

Cool and Shape

Remove from heat and stir in the salt and lemon juice. Pour the mixture into a greased rectangle pan and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Cut into Bites

Once cooled, cut the mixture into bite-sized pieces and dust lightly with cornstarch to prevent sticking.

Your chewy strawberry bites are now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to mix in a bit of vanilla extract to the mixture before cooling.

Storage and Shelf Life

These chewy strawberry licorice bites can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, making them great for snacks or party treats. To prevent them from sticking together, dust each bite lightly with cornstarch before placing them in the container. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them where they can last for up to two weeks.

For longer storage, you can also freeze these bites. Place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored this way for about three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying!

Serving Suggestions

These licorice bites are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them as a fun after-school snack, or include them as a colorful addition to party favor bags. They also pair wonderfully with a simple yogurt dip or whipped cream for a delightful dessert option. Kids especially enjoy them as a topping for ice cream sundaes, adding a chewy contrast to that creamy texture.

For a festive look, consider dusting them with colored sugar or dipping them in chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence. These adaptations make for a great treat during special occasions or holidays, allowing you to personalize them to fit any celebration. Get creative and have fun with the presentation!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just thaw and drain excess liquid before pureeing.

→ How do I store these licorice bites?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I add other flavors?

Absolutely! You can mix in other fruit purees like raspberry or blueberry for different flavors.

→ What if the mixture is too firm?

If you overcook the mixture making it too firm, simply melt it down again with a bit of water added.