Gather the necessary supplies
Before you begin, gather the following supplies:
- Apples – choose firm and crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- Knife or apple slicer
- Lemon juice or citric acid (optional, for preventing browning)
- Dehydrator – or alternatively, an oven with low temperature settings
- Parchment paper or non-stick dehydrator sheets
- Airtight containers for storage
Step 1: Prepare the apples
Start by washing the apples thoroughly under running water. Peel the skin if desired, although leaving the skin on adds extra nutritional value and texture to the final product. Remove the core and slice the apples into uniform ⅛ – ¼ inch thick slices. An apple slicer can make this process even quicker.
Step 2: Prevent browning
Apples tend to oxidize and turn brown when exposed to air. To prevent this, soak the apple slices briefly in a solution of water and lemon juice (or a mixture of water and citric acid). This step is optional, but it helps preserve the natural color of the apple slices.
Step 3: Arrange the apple slices
If using a dehydrator, lay the apple slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays lined with parchment paper or non-stick dehydrator sheets. Ensure there is space between each slice to allow proper airflow. If using an oven, place the apple slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Dehydrate the apple slices
If using a dehydrator, set the temperature to around 135°F (57°C) and let the apple slices dehydrate for approximately 6-8 hours. For an oven, preheat it to the lowest temperature setting (typically around 150°F or 65°C), and bake the slices for 2-3 hours. Flip the slices halfway through the dehydration process to ensure even drying.
Step 5: Cool and store
Once the apple slices have dried to a desirable texture, remove them from the dehydrator or oven and let them cool completely. They should be firm and crisp, with no moisture present. Store the dehydrated apple slices in airtight containers, preferably in a cool and dark place. They can last for several months if properly stored.
Enjoy your homemade dehydrated apple slices!
Now that you know how to dehydrate apple slices, you can enjoy them as a tasty and nutritious snack anytime. Whether you take them on hiking trips, add them to your breakfast cereal, or simply indulge in them on a lazy afternoon, these homemade dehydrated apple slices are sure to satisfy your cravings.
So, why wait? Grab your apples and get started on this delightful and easy recipe today!