DIY Tart Cherry Sleep Gummies

Raise your hand if you are in need of some sleep! ??‍♀️ Yea…that was a trick question for sure. WE ALL DO! The recent time change making the days seem shorter has definitely changed our internal clocks, making some of us feel like there isn’t enough time in the day to get everything done. This leads to lots of stress…and I don’t know about y’all, but it has been harder to fall asleep (and stay asleep). To add to sleep deprivation, the holidays are in full swing so I am sure I am in good company when I say I am in need of some sleep more than ever right now.

Not only are we in need of sleep, but if you are active and work out during the week like we try to do, your body needs the rest in order to continue to recover. We are definitely a fan of anything that helps our muscles recharge in addition to helping us effectively get some rest. Today’s post is one of our favorite DIY ways we have found that actually helps to fall asleep, stay asleep, AND aid in the recovery of tired muscles. Win, win, right!? ??

Why tart cherry juice? ? Well, studies have shown that tart cherry juice concentrate helps to increase melatonin, which improves sleep duration and quality. Sign us up, right?! Not only does tart cherry juice aid in better sleep, it has also been shown to reduce inflammation and speed up muscle recovery. Heck. Yes! When selecting a tart cherry juice, we recommend making sure it is organic and does not have any added refined sugars. We linked our favorite below for reference.

So, why the gelatin? Your first thought when you hear “gelatin” is probably Jell-o. And, yes, this is the same thing! In short, gelatin helps with a handful of things…digestion, inflammation, blood sugar levels, sleep (YES!), skin elasticity, boosts collagen, joint health, and so much more! Fascinating, right? If you want to read more about gelatin and it’s benefit, click here for one of many articles you can find outlining in further detail all the ways it helps to keep you healthy.

These tart cherry sleep gummies can be made in any shape you want, and eaten as a post-workout snack, digestive aid at any time of day, or our favorite…30 minutes to an hour before bed to aid in better sleep. So, grab your gummy molds and let’s finally get some sleep, babes! ?

What You Need

1 and 1/2 cups Organic Tart Cherry Juice

4 Tbsp Unflavored Gelatin Powder with Collagen (Vital Proteins is our go-to brand)*

1 Tbsp Stevia sweetener (optional)

Heart mold trays (optional)

*If you want to omit the collagen powder, you can also use baking gelatin, like Knox brand (6 packets would be the amount to use)

Step by Step

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat on the stove, heat all ingredients until the gelatin powder and stevia are fully dissolved. Let boil for just a moment, then remove from heat.
2. Pour the mixture into your mold trays or a 9×9 inch glass baking pan.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Depending on which container you used, remove and cut into smaller square or circle portions (baking pan), or pop your gummies out of the molds if using molds.
5. Store in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months.