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About This Recipe
If you’re obsessed with the Fruit Riot Frozen Sour Grapes and are looking for an easy at-home version, you have to try these frozen candied grapes! They taste just like your favorite sour candy but are made with fresh fruit and just a few simple ingredients, so you can enjoy them in a much healthier way. And the best part? They’re super easy to make!
These sour candy grapes are not only a fun snack this time of year, but are also a great activity to do with the kids! They’re quick, easy, and require minimal cleanup!
You know that iconic sweet and sour taste you love about your favorite candy like sour patch kids? If you want to make these frozen grapes truly taste like candy, make sure to use citric acid! The citric acid helps bring an extra tangy kick, giving these grapes that true “sweet and sour” flavor.
Also, feel free to use a sugar substitute for a fraction of the carbs! I just recommend using a granular natural sweetener that has the same texture as sugar for the best results.
For more frozen treats like these frozen sweet & sour candy grapes, try my Frozen Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites, Dark Chocolate Cherry Almond Bark, or Dark Chocolate Pretzel Bark.
Why You’ll Love These Candied Frozen Grapes
- A fun and refreshing sweet treat: These frozen grapes are cold, juicy, and taste just like sweet and sour candy—perfect for hot summer days.
- Simple recipe: This sweet and sour treat is quick and easy to make with only 4 ingredients!
- Kid-friendly: A fun treat that is a great activity with the kids, and they love devouring them!
- Healthier alternative for your sweet tooth: These frozen grapes taste just like candy but are made with better-for-you ingredients!
- Great to make ahead: Store them in the freezer for an easy grab-and-go treat whenever cravings hit.
- Green grapes: I love using fresh green seedless grapes for these candy grapes! You could also use red grapes. Green grapes give a tangier bite, while red grapes are usually sweeter—use your favorite or try a mix for variety.
- Lime juice: Make sure to use FRESH lime juice for the best flavor! I’m sure you could also use fresh lemon juice if that’s what you have on hand.
- Sugar: I used pure cane granulated white sugar but regular sugar works perfectly fine too. If using a sugar substitute, use one that has the same granular texture as sugar, like Swerve, Truvia or granulated monk fruit sweetener. Avoid powdery and liquid sweeteners here.
- Citric acid: Although it’s not essential, I really suggest giving it a try! The citric acid brings a tangy kick that makes these grapes taste even better. When combined with sugar, citric acid helps create that amazing “sweet and sour” flavor balance we all know and love!
- Types of grapes: For a fun variation, use red grapes or cotton candy grapes (for a very sweet and sour combo).
- No added sugars: If using a sugar substitute, use one that has the same granular texture as sugar, like Swerve, Truvia or granulated monk fruit sweetener. Avoid powdery and liquid sweeteners here.
- Spicy candy grapes: For a sweet-heat combo, add a light sprinkle of Tajin or chili-lime seasoning to your sugar mixture before freezing.
How To Make
The full printable recipe is below, but let me walk you through the process so you know what to expect when you’re making it!
1. Line a baking sheet or dish with parchment paper (one that will fit in your freezer). Place grapes in a bowl. Squeeze lime juice over top.
2. Toss to coat. Then place in the fridge for 10-15 minutes.
3. Add the sugar and citric acid (if using) to a shallow bowl. Take each grape (or a few at a time), let the excess lime juice drip off, then roll/toss in the sugar mixture.
4. Make sure to coat completely, then place on the baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for 2-3 hours and enjoy!
Keep stored in a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. For the best taste and texture, enjoy them within the first few weeks.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh, firm grapes: Choose large seedless grapes that are firm and fresh for the best texture after freezing. Soft or overripe grapes can get mushy.
- Dry well: After rinsing the grapes, use paper towels to completely dry them before adding the candy coating.
- Work in batches: Coat the grapes individually or in small batches so that the sugar coating can completely and evenly coat each grape.
- Use a shallow dish for coating: Using a shallow bowl makes it easier to roll the grapes in the sugar and get even coverage.
- Chill before freezing: If you have time, chill the grapes in the fridge for 10-15 minutes after covering with lime juice. This helps the coating stick better and gives a more candy-like crunch once frozen.
Can I use red or green grapes?
Yes! You can use either red or green seedless grapes. Green grapes give a tangier bite, while red grapes are usually sweeter—use your favorite or try a mix for variety.
Do I need to thaw these frozen sweet & sour candy grapes before eating?
Nope! Enjoy these grapes straight from the freezer for that crunchy, candy-like texture. If they’re too hard at first, let them sit at room temperature for 2–3 minutes to soften slightly.
Can I use frozen grapes for this sour candy grapes recipe?
It’s best to start with fresh grapes so the coating sticks well. Pre-frozen grapes won’t hold the sugar coating properly and may turn mushy after thawing.
Did you make this? If you snap a photo, please be sure leave a review, tag me on Instagram or TikTok at @LaurenFitFoodie or hashtag #LaurenFitFoodie so I can see your creations!
Frozen Sweet & Sour Candy Grapes
Ingredients
- 4 cups green grapes (600g) washed & dried
- 2-3 Tbsp fresh lime juice ~2 limes
- 1 cup granulated white cane sugar (192g) can also use sugar substitute, see notes
- 2-3 tsp citric acid optional
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Instructions
- Line a baking sheet or dish with parchment paper (one that will fit in your freezer).
- Place grapes in a bowl. Squeeze lime juice over top and toss to coat. Place in the fridge for 10-15 minutes.
- Add the sugar and citric acid (if using) to a shallow bowl.
- Take each grape (or a few at a time), let the excess lime juice drip off, then roll/toss in the sugar mixture. Make sure to coat completely then place on the baking sheet.
- Freeze for 2-3 hours and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition Information
Nutrition is hand-calculated and accurate. No autocalulations! However, note that values can vary based on the brands you use and if you substitute ingredients.
