Description
A vibrant, naturally sweet candy made from prickly pear fruit—this recipe is simple, plant-based, and packed with bold, nostalgic flavor.
Ingredients
2 cups prickly pear juice (fresh or diluted syrup)
1 tbsp lemon juice
3 cups organic cane sugar
1 box fruit pectin (e.g., Sure-Jell, vegan-friendly)
Optional: Dash of vanilla or cayenne
Instructions
1. Strain your prickly pear pulp to remove seeds and peel. If using whole fruit, peel and blend until smooth, then strain.
2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine prickly pear juice, lemon juice, and pectin. Stir continuously over medium heat.
3. Slowly add sugar and bring to a rolling boil.
4. Continue boiling for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid scorching.
5. Pour mixture into a parchment-lined baking sheet or silicone molds.
6. Cool at room temperature for 4–6 hours until firm.
7. Slice into cubes and toss with sugar to prevent sticking.
8. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Notes
Use citrus sugar to line molds for a zesty contrast.
Try chili-lime, hibiscus, or mint add-ins for flavor variety.
Wrap in parchment and twine for gift-giving.
Freeze large batches for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Boiled
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2–3 pieces
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: prickly pear, vegan candy, cactus candy, natural sweets