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Apples are nature's sweet and crunchy gift, and one way to enjoy them year-round is by dehydrating them. Dehydrated apples make for a delicious and healthy snack that's perfect for kids and adults alike. In this guide, we'll take you through the simple steps to dehydrate apples at home.
Why Dehydrate Apples?
Dehydrating apples is a fantastic way to preserve their natural flavor and nutrients. Unlike store-bought dried fruits that often contain added sugars and preservatives, homemade dehydrated apples are a pure, wholesome treat. Here are a few more reasons to give it a try:
1. Longer Shelf Life:
Dehydrated apples have a significantly extended shelf life compared to fresh ones. Properly stored, they can last for months, making them a convenient snack option.
2. Nutrient Retention:
The dehydration process removes water content while preserving most of the vitamins and minerals present in fresh apples. You get the goodness of apples without worrying about spoilage.
3. Portability:
Dehydrated apples are lightweight and don't require refrigeration, making them an ideal choice for on-the-go snacking, hiking, or packing in lunches.
Materials You'll Need:
Before we dive into the steps, gather these materials:
1. Fresh apples (any variety will do, but crisp and slightly tart ones work best).
2. A sharp knife or apple slicer. I use this apple peeler corer slicer.
3. Lemon juice (for preventing browning).
4. A dehydrator or an oven. I use and love the Excalibur 9 Tray Dehydrator
6. Optional: Cinnamon or other spices for added flavor.
Step-by-Step Dehydration Process:
1. Preparation:
- Wash the apples thoroughly.
- Slice them into thin, uniform pieces, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. This is when I use the Apple peeler corer slicer.
- To prevent browning, soak the apple slices in a mixture of water and lemon juice for a few minutes. Drain and pat them dry. This step is optional. I skip it most of the time because it's an extra step and the browning is purely cosmetic
2. Arrange Slices:
- Lay the apple slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays or baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- If desired, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or your preferred spice on the slices for extra flavor.
3. Dehydration:
- For a dehydrator, set the temperature to around 135°F (57°C) and let them dry for 6-12 hours. Check them periodically until they reach your desired level of crispness.
- If using an oven, place the trays in the oven at its lowest setting with the door slightly ajar. This process may take a bit longer, around 8-12 hours.
4. Testing for Doneness:
- Apples are ready when they are dry and crispy but still slightly pliable. They shouldn't be overly brittle.
5. Cool and Store:
- Let the dehydrated apple slices cool completely before storing them in airtight containers. Use glass jars or vacuum-sealed bags for the best results.
Enjoy Your Homemade Apple Snacks!
Dehydrated apples make for a tasty and nutritious snack, and they can also be added to cereals, oatmeal, or baked goods for an extra burst of apple flavor. Plus, they're a great way to savor the goodness of apples all year round. So go ahead, dehydrate some apples, and enjoy the satisfying crunch of nature's candy!
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