Experience a delightful fusion of flavor and wellness with these vibrant Matcha Coconut Gummies. Perfect for a healthy treat, they’re the jade-colored jigglers you absolutely need in your life!
Like many health-conscious food enthusiasts, I’ve found myself completely captivated by the incredible combination of matcha, coconut, and gelatin. And it’s not just because these ingredients are touted for their impressive health benefits. While it’s true that they are lauded as antioxidant-rich, nutrient-dense “superfoods” that can help combat inflammation, boost metabolism, foster gut and joint health, and offer protection against various ailments, their appeal goes beyond mere nutrition.
Countless articles and studies highlight the profound positive impacts of these ingredients. For instance, gelatin is celebrated for its role in supporting digestion and skin elasticity, while matcha is a powerhouse of antioxidants known for promoting calm alertness and cellular protection. (For those eager to dive deeper, extensive resources are available on the benefits of gelatin and the wonders of matcha.)
However, let’s be entirely transparent: my primary motivation for creating these delightful green-tea-infused gummies wasn’t a fervent belief that they would magically transform me into a supermodel with shimmering hair, flawless skin, and an invulnerable gut. Any health-boosting properties derived from these ingredients are, for me, simply an added bonus – a delightful, nutrient-rich cherry on top of an already fantastic treat.
The true, undeniable reason I embarked on making these jiggly delights? Quite simply, matcha, coconut, and gelatin converge to create an irresistibly delicious flavor profile. Moreover, when prepared with the right molds, my Matcha Coconut Gummies turn out to be incredibly adorable. And sometimes, in the world of culinary creations, cuteness reigns supreme. These gummies don’t just taste good; they bring a smile to your face, looking so charming they could almost be edible emojis!
What is Matcha? Unveiling the Emerald Elixir
If you’re new to the world of matcha, a unique and finely milled green tea powder, a preliminary taste test is highly recommended before committing to a purchase. Head to your local cafe or tea shop known for its specialty beverages and order a matcha drink. Savor a few sips to discern if its distinctive flavor resonates with your palate before investing in a tin of this prized green powder. High-quality matcha, renowned for its vivid color and complex taste, can indeed be a significant investment.
Matcha, when simply whisked with hot water, offers a robust, earthy, and sometimes grassy flavor, rich in umami notes. While this unique taste isn’t universally adored, many—including myself and a good number of my acquaintances—find it utterly captivating. I personally prefer the nuanced complexities of matcha over coffee for my daily boost. When incorporated into a latte, the grassy undertones of matcha are beautifully mellowed by the creamy base, resulting in a smooth, flavorful beverage that imparts a serene yet alert sensation. Over the years, I’ve discovered a particular affinity for this brand of matcha. (As a friendly tip, you can often use a discount code like nomnompaleo to save on your purchase. This isn’t a sponsored endorsement or an affiliate link; it’s simply a brand I genuinely love, and I’ve previously arranged for a discount to share with fellow matcha enthusiasts.)
The Essential Role of Gelatin: Choosing Wisely for Perfect Gummies
The foundation of perfectly firm and delightfully jiggly gummies lies in the quality of your gelatin. It is absolutely crucial to select a high-quality gelatin that is sourced from grass-fed animals. Remember the old adage: “You are what you eat”? This principle extends to the ingredients we use in our cooking. Opting for grass-fed gelatin ensures you’re utilizing a product that aligns with healthier and more sustainable practices.
Furthermore, it’s vital to understand the distinction between gelatin and collagen peptides for this specific recipe. While both are derived from collagen, they possess different properties. Gelatin, when dissolved in hot liquid and then cooled, forms a stable gel, giving these gummies their characteristic firm, chewy texture. Collagen peptides, on the other hand, are hydrolyzed and broken down into smaller proteins, which means they will not gel or solidify in the same way. Using collagen peptides instead of gelatin will result in a liquid or very soft mixture, preventing your gummies from ever firming up as intended. So, double-check your labels to ensure you procure culinary-grade gelatin for guaranteed success.
Sweetening Your Matcha Coconut Gummies: A Personal Touch
One of the beauties of homemade treats is the ability to customize them precisely to your liking, especially when it comes to sweetness. For these Matcha Coconut Gummies, feel completely free to adjust the amount of honey (or your preferred natural sweetener) based on your individual taste preferences. I, for instance, prefer my gummies to be only mildly sweet, finding a single tablespoon of honey to be the perfect balance. My partner, Henry, has an even more discerning palate for sweetness and often prefers his gummies with no added sweetener whatsoever, allowing the natural flavors of matcha and coconut to shine through. Conversely, my nine-year-old, with a classic childhood sweet tooth, would happily suggest adding the entire jar of honey! This wide range of preferences highlights the importance of tasting and adjusting the mixture before setting, ensuring your gummies are just right for you and your family.
Coconut Alternatives: If Coconut Isn’t Your Cup of Tea
While coconut cream is a key ingredient for the rich flavor and creamy texture of these gummies, we understand that not everyone is a fan of coconut. If you prefer to avoid coconut or simply want to experiment with different flavor profiles, you have excellent alternatives! You can easily swap out the coconut cream for your favorite non-dairy milk—such as almond milk, cashew milk, or even oat milk—or a Whole30-friendly creamer. The most important aspect when making this substitution is to maintain the consistent ratio of gelatin to liquid. This ensures that your gummies achieve the correct set and texture, regardless of the liquid base you choose. Feel free to explore and personalize your gummies to perfectly suit your taste preferences!
Molding Your Creations: Tips for Shape and Texture
The choice of how you set your gummies can significantly impact their final texture. If you opt not to use individual silicone molds and instead pour the mixture into a larger pan (like an 8-inch square baking dish) to cut into squares, you can actually reduce the amount of gelatin used. Decreasing the gelatin to 2 tablespoons will yield a softer, more Jell-O-like consistency, which is delightful for cut squares. However, if you are utilizing silicone molds, particularly those with intricate shapes or smaller cavities, it is highly recommended to stick with the recipe’s specified amount of gelatin (2½ tablespoons). The extra gelatin provides the necessary firmness for the gummies to hold their shape perfectly when popped out of the molds, ensuring those adorable heart, penguin, or owl designs remain intact without crumbling.
Maximize Your Matcha: Other Delicious Recipes to Try
It’s always a pleasure to find ways to utilize premium ingredients to their fullest, and matcha is no exception. If you find yourself with extra matcha powder after crafting these delightful gummies, you’ll be glad to know there’s a world of other delicious possibilities waiting! Matcha’s versatility extends far beyond gummies, making it a fantastic ingredient for a variety of beverages and desserts. You can easily whip up a refreshing Cold Matcha Latte for a creamy, chilled treat, or explore the simplicity of Cold Brew Matcha. For those who enjoy baking (or not baking!), matcha can be transformed into indulgent desserts like a No-Bake Matcha Cheesecake or a comforting Matcha Pudding. Don’t let any precious matcha go to waste; explore these other “nomtastic” recipes to continue enjoying its unique flavor and health benefits!
Blender Matters: Achieving the Perfect Gummy Consistency and Color
The type of blender you use can subtly but noticeably influence the final appearance and consistency of your Matcha Coconut Gummies. While it’s certainly not a deal-breaker, understanding this difference can help you anticipate the outcome. When a high-powered blender is employed, the ingredients are thoroughly emulsified, resulting in gummies that boast a uniform, creamy-green color throughout. This method ensures all the matcha, coconut cream, and liquid are perfectly integrated, creating a smooth, homogenous mixture.
In contrast, if you opt for an immersion blender or a less powerful countertop blender, you might observe a slight separation of ingredients before the mixture fully solidifies. This can lead to gummies with a charming two-toned appearance, where the lighter coconut cream might settle slightly, creating a marbled or layered effect. It’s important to remember that this variation in appearance does not compromise the flavor or the enjoyment of the gummies. Regardless of whether your gummies are uniformly creamy or beautifully speckled, they will still be equally delicious and provide the same delightful texture. Ultimately, both methods yield a tasty result, but knowing your equipment can help manage expectations for the aesthetic outcome.
Time to Make Your Own Matcha Coconut Gummies!
Get ready to create these adorable and delicious Matcha Coconut Gummies. This recipe yields approximately 12 gummies, and frankly, it’s hard to stop at just one or two!
Ingredients:
- 2½ tablespoons gelatin (use only 2 tablespoons if you are not using molds for a softer set)
- 2 cups coconut water, divided
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional; adjust to your preferred sweetness level)
- ¼ cup coconut cream (or the thick, hardened layer from a can of chilled full-fat coconut milk)
- 2 teaspoons matcha powder (don’t forget to check for discount codes like nomnompaleo!)
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Large bowl or a 1000 mL beaker
- Small saucepan
- High-speed blender or an immersion blender
- 3 silicone ice molds or an 8-inch square baking dish
Method: Step-by-Step Gummy Creation
Ready to make some magic? Ensure you have your charming silicone molds at the ready!
- Bloom the Gelatin: Pour 1 cup of coconut water into a bowl or beaker. Evenly sprinkle the gelatin powder over the surface of the liquid. Allow the gelatin to “bloom” or soften for about 5 minutes. This crucial step ensures the gelatin dissolves smoothly later without clumping. (Note: The color of your coconut water doesn’t matter; if it’s pink like my preferred Harmless Coconut Water, it will still result in green gummies!)
- Heat the Liquid: In a small saucepan, gently heat the remaining 1 cup of coconut water over medium heat. If you’re using honey, add it at this stage. Continue heating until the mixture is steaming hot but not actively boiling. This warmth will help fully dissolve the bloomed gelatin.
- Combine Ingredients: Carefully pour the hot coconut water mixture into the bowl or beaker containing the bloomed gelatin. Stir gently to ensure the gelatin fully dissolves. Next, add the coconut cream and the vibrant matcha powder.
- Blend for Smoothness: Use either a high-speed blender for a perfectly uniform, creamy texture, or an immersion blender directly in the bowl. Blend until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth, and no matcha lumps remain.
- Adjust Sweetness: Take a small taste of the matcha mixture to assess its sweetness. Add more honey if desired, keeping in mind that the gummies will taste slightly less sweet once they are chilled and firm.
- Pour into Molds: Carefully pour the blended matcha mixture into your silicone molds or into an 8-inch square baking dish if you prefer to cut squares later.
- Chill and Set: If using silicone molds, place them on a rimmed baking sheet before filling. This makes it much easier to transfer them to the refrigerator without any spills. Chill the gummies in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until they are completely solidified and firm.
- Release and Enjoy: Once firm, gently pop the gummies out of their molds. If using a baking dish, cut them into desired shapes.
- Storage: Store your delightful gummies in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. However, given how incredibly tasty and cute they are, it’s highly likely they’ll be devoured long before then!
Whether your gummies turn out with a fascinating two-toned, speckled appearance (a delightful result of an immersion blender) or a perfectly creamy, uniform green, they are guaranteed to be super-cute and incredibly tasty!
The vibrant green hue and subtle sheen of these gummies often remind me of a cherished jade necklace—a piece I wear almost constantly because, honestly, it feels like it bestows superpowers! Perhaps my true strength, however, comes from a harmonious blend of matcha, gelatin, and the sheer joy these adorable, edible emojis bring.
Discover More Matcha-Inspired Delights!
If you’re now a newfound matcha enthusiast, or simply have extra powder on hand, here are more fantastic recipes to explore:
- Cold Brew Matcha
- Cold Matcha Latte
- No-Bake Matcha Cheesecake
- Matcha Mug Cake
- Matcha Pudding
Looking for more inspiring and delicious recipe ideas? Be sure to visit my comprehensive Recipe Index. You’ll also find a treasure trove of exclusive recipes on my iPhone and iPad app, as well as in my critically acclaimed cookbooks: Nom Nom Paleo: Food for Humans (Andrews McMeel Publishing 2013), Ready or Not! (Andrews McMeel Publishing 2017), and Nom Nom Paleo: Let’s Go! (Andrews McMeel Publishing 2021).
PRINT-FRIENDLY RECIPE CARD
Matcha Coconut Gummies
Ingredients
- 2½ tablespoons gelatin use only 2 tablespoons if you are not using molds
- 2 cups coconut water divided
- 1 tablespoon honey optional, and you can adjust the amount according to your taste
- ¼ cup coconut cream or the hardened stuff that floats to the top of a can of chilled full-fat coconut milk
- 2 teaspoons matcha save 20% with code: nomnompaleo
Instructions
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Pour 1 cup of coconut water in a bowl or beaker, and sprinkle the gelatin on top. The gelatin will take about 5 minutes to bloom (or soften).
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In the meantime, heat the remaining 1 cup of coconut water (and honey, if you’re using it) over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling.
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Pour the hot coconut water into the container with the bloomed gelatin. Add the coconut cream and matcha.
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Blend with a high speed blender or an immersion blender.
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Taste the matcha to see if it is sweet enough for your taste and adjust as needed. (Remember: the jigglers will taste less sweet when chilled.)
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Pour the matcha mixture into silicone molds or into an 8-inch square baking dish.
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If you’re using silicone molds, place them on a rimmed baking sheet before adding the liquid. That way, you can transfer them to the fridge without the molds flopping around and spilling.
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Chill the gummies in the fridge for at least 2 hours or until they’ve solidified. Then, pop them out!
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You can keep these gummies in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, but I bet you’ll finish ’em off before then.
Notes
- If you’ve never tasted matcha (a special type of finely milled green tea powder), try before you buy. Go order a matcha drink at your local hipster coffee/tea hangout, and take a sip or three before deciding whether to drop a small fortune on a fancy tin of green powder. Personally, I dig this brand of matcha, but I also buy cans of matcha at my favorite tea shop and at Japanese markets.
- Make sure you procure a high-quality gelatin derived from grass fed animals. (I like this one.) Also, take care to buy gelatin and not collagen peptides for this recipe, because collagen peptides won’t gel, which means your gummies won’t firm up.
- Feel free to add more or less honey based on your preference.
- Don’t like coconut? You can swap out the coconut cream for your favorite non-dairy milk or Whole30-friendly creamer. Just remember to keep the ratio of gelatin-to-liquid consistent.
- If you aren’t using molds, it’s not necessary to add as much gelatin. You can decrease the amount of gelatin to 2 tablespoons to produce a less-gummy, more-Jell-O-like texture. But if you’re using molds, stick with the amount of gelatin listed in the recipe.
- Your choice of blender will affect the final outcome slightly. If you use a high-powered blender, the gummies will be a uniform, creamy-green color throughout. But if you use an immersion blender or a less powerful blender, your gummies may separate a bit and settle before it solidifies. Not a big deal, but something to keep in mind.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.