collagen powder Archives – Sam Does Her Best

Everyone loved my 3-ingredient healthy watermelon gummies so much, I knew I had to make a new flavor! Though, in the spirit of fall, I decided to go with apple this time. And let me tell you – these healthy sour apple gummies might be even better than the watermelon kind! They’re perfectly sweetened, made with NO added sugar, and rolled in a sour coating that will make your mouth water. Surprisingly easy to make in just a few simple steps, with five ingredients!

What Makes This Recipe Healthy?

Collagen boost: Grass-fed gelatin provides natural collagen and supports skin, hair, and joint health.
No refined sugars: Sweetened with monk fruit, a zero-calorie natural sweetener option.
Real fruit base: Apple juice + lemon add natural flavor and a dose of vitamin C.
Customizable & clean: No artificial dyes or preservatives—food coloring is optional and minimal.

close up image of healthy sour apple collagen gummies

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Sour Apple Collagen Gummies

You get chewy, flavorful candy with health benefits – NO sugar crash!
They’re fun for both adults and kids, and make cute additions to lunchboxes.
These gummies are shelf-stable (when refrigerated), portable, and great for custom flavors.
The sour coating adds a kick without overwhelming sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for monk fruit sweetener?
You can use erythritol, stevia blends, or allulose. Just note that some sweeteners may affect texture or shelf life slightly.

How do I prevent the sour coating from dissolving?
Toss the gummies just before serving, and store them chilled. High humidity or warmth may cause the coating to dissolve.

Can I change the flavor of this recipe?
Absolutely! Swap the apple juice for pomegranate, orange, cranberry, or other juices. Use food coloring or natural powders to adjust the color.

monk fruit sweetener for healthy sour apple collagen gummies.

I highly recommend using granulated monk fruit sweetener in this recipe for the best taste and results!

Sam’s Recipe Tips

Use low heat when dissolving the gelatin so it doesn’t clump or bubble.
Use silicone molds for easy removal – here’s a link to the ones I used!
For firmer gummies, let them chill a bit longer than 30 minutes.
Store gummies in the fridge in an airtight container to maintain shape and texture!

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Healthy Sour Apple Collagen Gummies

These healthy sour apple collagen gummies are a fun and nourishing twist on classic gummy candy! Made with real fruit juice, collagen-rich gelatin, and no refined sugar. Each bite is sweet, sour, and packed with skin-supporting nutrients. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and the perfect healthy snack or post-workout bite!

Print Pin Rate

Prep Time: 5

Chilling Time: 30

Total Time: 35

Servings: servings

Equipment

1 small saucepan
2 gummy molds

Ingredients

1 cup apple juice
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons granulated monk fruit sweetener
1/4 cup grass-fed gelatin
2-3 drops green food coloring

For the sour coating:

1/4 cup granulated monk fruit sweetener
1/2 teaspoon citric acid optional, but will make them extra sour!

Instructions

Add the apple juice, lemon juice, monk fruit sweetener, grass-fed gelatin, and food coloring (if using) to a small saucepan over low heat. Whisk the mixture together until the gelatin powder has fully dissolved, about 2 minutes, then remove it from the heat.
Transfer the gelatin mixture to the molds, then refrigerate 30 minutes, or until the gummies are fully set. Pop the gummies out of the molds then serve/store as-is, or move on to the next step for the sour coating.
Mix together the monk fruit sweetener and citric acid in a bowl, then toss the gummies in the sour coating. Enjoy right away!

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 35kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 4g | Sugar: 4g

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These pumpkin protein balls were made pretty much just for my pumpkin-loving husband. I have never ever met anyone so obsessed with pumpkin pie than him. And after just one bite of these protein balls he said, “WOW these taste like PUMPKIN PIE!!!” and continued to eat the entire batch in two days… good thing they’re healthy, high in protein, and packed with collagen!

Also, lucky for my husband, his birthday is coming up! SO fitting that the man obsessed with pumpkin has a birthday in October. This year, he’s getting another batch (ehhh maybe a double bath) or these pumpkin protein balls, my gluten-free pumpkin coffee cake, and maybe even a healthy pumpkin spice latte if I’m feeling really generous. Happy almost birthday, my love!

overhead image of pumpkin protein balls on a plate with pumpkin spice on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pumpkin protein balls are an easy, healthy snack packed with protein, perfect for on-the-go fuel or a post-workout boost. They’re made with just six simple ingredients, are naturally gluten-free, and can easily be adapted to fit various dietary needs, like being vegan or low carb.

What You Need to Make Pumpkin Protein Balls

Cashew Butter (or any nut/seed butter): Acts as the base of the recipe, adding creaminess, richness, and healthy fats.
Pumpkin Purée: Brings moisture and that classic fall flavor, while adding a dose of fiber and vitamins.
Almond Flour: Provides structure while keeping the recipe gluten-free and low in carbs.
Collagen Powder or Protein Powder: Boosts the protein content, but can be replaced with almond flour if you prefer. I use and love this collagen powder in my recipes!
Maple Syrup: Naturally sweetens the mixture without refined sugars.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: Adds the warm, cozy flavors of fall, making these protein balls irresistible.

Does Any Nut Butter Work?

Yes! While cashew butter is recommended for its creamy texture, any nut or seed butter—like almond, peanut, or sunflower seed butter—can be used as a substitute, making this recipe highly customizable.

What Collagen or Protein Powder Do You Use?

You can use unflavored collagen powder, any vanilla protein powder, or even extra almond flour for a protein powder-free option. Choose a protein powder that fits your dietary needs and flavor preferences.

pumpkin protein balls with white chocolate drizzle on a plate.

Storage Tips

Store these pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to a month. Simply grab one from the freezer and enjoy!

Switch Up The Flavors of These Pumpkin Protein Balls

You can switch out the pumpkin puree for mashed banana or add mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chia seeds for extra texture and flavor.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

Vegan: Use a plant-based protein powder and ensure your nut butter is dairy-free.
Nut-Free: Replace the almond flour with coconut flour or oat flour, and use sunflower seed butter in place of the cashew butter.
Low Sugar: Opt for a low-sugar protein powder or reduce the amount of maple syrup.

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Pumpkin Protein Balls

These pumpkin protein balls are made with only six wholesome ingredients, gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with protein for a healthy, and delicious snack! They're basically pumpkin pie in healthier, small bite form. I just know you're going to LOVE them!