How to Dehydrate Apples at Home 3 Easy Methods

5 from 1 vote

How to Dehydrate Apples at Home 3 Easy Methods

We'll cover three easy methods to dehydrate apples using a food dehydrator, oven, and air fryer. It’s a great way to preserve fresh apples for long-term storage while creating a delicious and healthy snack.

Prep Time10

Cook Time2

Total Time2 10

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: American

Keyword: apple recipe, budget friendly recipe, easy recipe, fruit recipe, Preserving Food

Servings: Cups

Calories: 203kcal

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Equipment

Measuring cup

Food Dehydrator

Sheetpan with Wire Racks

Air Fryer

Ingredients

4-6 Medium Apples
4 Cups Water
½ Cup Lemon Juice bottled is fine

Instructions

Prepping Apples for Dehydration

Wash and core the apples. This removes dirt and pesticides.
4-6 Medium Apples
Slice apples into thin slices. Aim for about 1/8-inch thick for even drying.
Prevent browning. Soak sliced apples in a mixture of lemon juice and water for 5-10 minutes.
4 Cups Water, ½ Cup Lemon Juice
Arrange in a single layer. Whether using dehydrator trays, a baking sheet, or wire racks, ensure apple slices don’t overlap.

Method 1: Dehydrating Apples with a Food Dehydrator

A food dehydrator is the most effective method for dehydrating apples. Here's how:
Arrange sliced apples on dehydrator trays in a single layer.
Set the dehydrator to 135°F (57°C).
Let them dry for 6-8 hours, checking for signs of moisture.
Once dry, place them on a cooling rack before storing.

Method 2: Dehydrating Apples in the Oven

If you don’t have a food dehydrator, an oven is a great way to make dried apple slices.
Preheat oven to 175°F (80°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange apple slices in a single layer on wire racks.
Prop open the oven door slightly to allow moisture to escape.
Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through.

Method 3: Dehydrating Apples in an Air Fryer

Using an air fryer is a quick easy method for making homemade apple chips.
Set the air fryer to 135°F (57°C) or the lowest temperature.
Arrange apple slices in a single layer.
Dehydrate for 2-3 hours, checking for doneness.
Cool on a cooling rack before storing.

Notes

Prep Time. 10-15 minutes

Dehydrating Time. 6-12 hours (in a dehydrator), 2-4 hours (in the oven), or 8-10 minutes per batch (in the air fryer)

Number of Apples. About 4-6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Pink Lady, or homegrown apples work well)

Yield. Approximately 2-3 cups of dehydrated apple slices

Nutrition