Dehydrating Apple Slices
Dehydrating apples turns them into thin, crisp, shelf-stable snacks by slowly removing moisture at a low temperature over several hours. You are looking for a brittle, non-leathery texture that snaps when cooled, ensuring they won't spoil in storage.
Uniformity is the secret to consistency.
If the slices vary in thickness, some will be crisp while others remain spongy. Use a mandoline if you have one to ensure every piece is exactly an eighth of an inch thick.
- mandoline or sharp chef's knife
- lemon juice
- dehydrator trays
- cooling rack
What goes in.
- 6-8firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith
- 2 tbsplemon juice mixed with 1 cup water
Finding the final snap
Pull a slice from the dehydrator and let it sit on the counter for two minutes to cool; it should snap cleanly when bent, not bend like leather.
The method.
Prep the fruit
Core the apples and slice them into uniform 1/8-inch rounds. Leave the skin on for better structural integrity during drying.
Prevent browning
Submerge the slices in the lemon water solution for five minutes, then pat them completely dry with a lint-free towel.
Arrange the trays
Lay the slices on the dehydrator trays in a single layer. Ensure no edges overlap, as this prevents air from circulating.
Dry
Set the dehydrator to 135°F (57°C). Let them run for 6 to 8 hours, rotating the trays halfway through.
Cool and store
Transfer the finished slices to a wire rack. Once fully room temperature, store in an airtight glass jar.
When it doesn't go to plan.
Discard any slices that still feel damp or flexible after 8 hours; they will mold in the jar.
Store the jars in a dark pantry to preserve color and quality over the coming months.
If you lack a dehydrator, use an oven set to its lowest temperature, propping the door open with a wooden spoon to allow moisture to escape.
The ones that keep coming up.
Why do my apples turn brown?
Oxidation happens naturally when apples are exposed to air. The lemon juice bath acts as an antioxidant barrier to keep them bright.
How long do these last?
Properly dried and sealed in an airtight container, they remain crisp for up to six months.
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