Strawberry Candy
Ingredients
- 2 6oz packages strawberry jello regular or sugar free
- 2 cups shredded coconut
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 1 (14 oz) can condensed milk
- Coating and stems
- Silvered almonds
- 4 tsp red food color
- 2 tsp green food coloring
- 1 cup sugar for coating
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine jello, coconut, pecans, vanilla and condensed milk; mix well. Chill for two hours.
- Once chilled, shape into a strawberries and roll in a mixture of red food coloring and 1 cup of sugar.
- For the stems, use silvered almonds dipped in green food coloring. Looks just like a real strawberry.
- Editor’s Note - These can be made with Splenda and can be molded in any shape such as hearts, small cupcake papers, Christmas Bells or strawberry shapes. Sprinkle with nonpareil - Time does not included chilling time.
Common Problems and Solutions
Q: Why is my candy mixture too sticky to shape?
A: The mixture needs the full 2 hours of chilling time to firm up properly. If it's still too sticky after chilling, add a bit more shredded coconut to help bind it. You can also chill your hands with cold water before shaping.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! These candies are perfect for make-ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The flavors actually develop nicely over a day or two.
Q: The food coloring isn't coating evenly - what am I doing wrong?
A: Mix the red food coloring thoroughly with the sugar before rolling. If the mixture seems dry, add a tiny bit more coloring. Roll the shaped candies gently but thoroughly to get even coverage.
Tips and Techniques
Wet your hands slightly with cold water when shaping the candies—this prevents sticking and makes it easier to form smooth strawberry shapes. For the most realistic look, make the strawberries slightly irregular in size, just like real berries.
Ingredient Substitutions
- condensed milk: sugar-free condensed milk or coconut condensed milk
- pecans: walnuts or finely chopped almonds
- shredded coconut: finely ground almonds or almond flour
- strawberry jello: other flavored jello (cherry, raspberry, lemon)
Equipment Needed
- mixing bowl
- measuring cups and spoons
- plastic wrap or airtight container for chilling
- small shallow dishes for food coloring mixtures
Historical Context
No-bake candy recipes like this became popular in the mid-20th century South when homemakers wanted festive treats that didn’t require heating up the kitchen or elaborate candy-making equipment. The strawberry shape makes them especially popular for Valentine’s Day church socials and Christmas cookie exchanges.
