Chewy Strawberry Licorice Bites

Name: Chewy Strawberry Licorice Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 24 pieces
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled; 1 cup sugar; 1/4 cup corn syrup; 2 tablespoons gelatin powder; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

Highlighted under: Cozy Meal Favorites

I absolutely love making Chewy Strawberry Licorice Bites at home because they remind me of my childhood. The vibrant strawberry flavor paired with that delightful chewiness is simply irresistible. I've experimented with several recipes, but this one stands out for its simplicity and the way the natural fruit essence shines through. Over time, I've learned that using fresh strawberries truly elevates the taste, giving it a burst of freshness that store-bought options just can't match.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-01-27T10:10:27.543Z

When I first made these Chewy Strawberry Licorice Bites, I was astonished at how easy it was to get that intense fruit flavor without any artificial ingredients. I opted for real strawberries, and the smell that filled my kitchen was incredible! The best part? I learned that letting them cool completely helps achieve the right texture - chewy but not sticky.

Each time I make them, I experiment with variations like adding a hint of lemon zest or adjusting the amount of sugar to match my current taste. It’s a delightful adventure that truly personalizes the recipe, and I encourage you to make it your own!

Reasons to Love These Licorice Bites
Intense strawberry flavor reminiscent of summer
Chewy texture that satisfies the candy lover in you
Simple ingredients that spark joy in homemade treats

Understanding the Role of Gelatin

Gelatin is a crucial ingredient in Chewy Strawberry Licorice Bites, providing the essential structure that gives these treats their recognizable chewy texture. When mixed with the heated strawberry puree, gelatin absorbs liquid and forms a gel as it cools, transforming the sweet mixture into delightful little bites. It's important to fully dissolve the gelatin in your mixture to avoid any lumps, which can compromise the final texture.

For a vegetarian alternative, consider using agar-agar, a plant-based gelatin substitute. However, keep in mind that agar sets differently than animal-based gelatin, so you may need to adjust the quantities. Agar typically requires extra boiling, so watch for the mixture to achieve a consistent, glossy appearance before removal from heat.

Choosing the Right Strawberries

The freshness and quality of your strawberries directly impact the flavor of your licorice bites. Opt for ripe, fragrant strawberries that are deep red in color, as they will yield the best and most intense strawberry flavor. Avoid overripe or dried-out berries, as these can result in a muted taste and less vibrant color in the final product.

If fresh strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen strawberries as a substitute. Just ensure they are unsweetened and thawed before blending. This will allow you to still achieve that vibrant color and rich flavor profile, although using freshly picked strawberries is always my preferred choice for the freshest taste.

Ingredients

For the Licorice Bites

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup corn syrup
2 tablespoons gelatin powder
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a blender, puree the fresh strawberries until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds, yielding about 1 cup of strawberry puree.

Cook the Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the strawberry puree, sugar, corn syrup, and lemon juice. Stir until the sugar has dissolved. Bring to a gentle boil.

Add the Gelatin

Sprinkle the gelatin powder over the mixture and whisk until fully dissolved. Reduce heat to low and continue to cook for about 5 minutes, ensuring the mixture remains smooth.

Set the Mixture

Remove from heat and pour the mixture into a greased 9x9 inch baking dish. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.

Cut and Enjoy

Once set, remove from the dish and cut into bite-sized pieces. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

These bites are perfect for a sweet snack at any time!

Pro Tips

Try adding a pinch of spice, like cinnamon or nutmeg, to give your licorice a unique twist that will surprise your taste buds.

Storage Tips

Once your Chewy Strawberry Licorice Bites are cut into pieces, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their chewy texture and prevents them from drying out. They can typically be stored for up to two weeks, but I recommend savoring them sooner for the best taste and texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the bites. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature. This method will keep the bites fresh for several months, making them a great treat to have on hand.

Serving Suggestions

These licorice bites make for a delightful candy treat during movie nights or as a sweet addition to parties. You can also coat them in powdered sugar or a light dusting of cornstarch to prevent them from sticking together. This adds a nice visual touch and makes them easier to handle.

Consider pairing these chewy bites with a glass of sparkling water or lemonade to create a refreshing contrast. Their intense strawberry flavor complements cold beverages perfectly, making them an enjoyable snack for summer gatherings or picnics!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture that could affect the texture.

→ How long do these licorice bites last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Substitute the gelatin with agar-agar for a vegan-friendly option.

→ What other flavors can I try?

Feel free to experiment with different fruits like raspberries or even a mix of berry flavors!