How to Dehydrate Fruit: Easy Methods for Sweet, Long-Lasting Snacks

Looking to dehydrate fruit properly using a dehydrator or other methods so you can enjoy its naturally sweet, concentrated flavors all year long?

Each fruit guide (linked below in red bars) walks you through simple step-by-step instructions—from choosing the best fruit to dehydrating it for optimal texture and taste. You’ll learn how to dry fruit using a dehydrator, an oven, or even the sun, creating delicious, preserved fruit snacks you can enjoy anytime.

Whether you prefer classic fruits like apples and berries or tropical varieties like mango and pineapple, I’ve got you covered. You’ll also find a special section on making chewy fruit leathers!

Stick with me and master the basics of fruit dehydration. Use your dried fruit in trail mixes, baked goods, and more!

Click to Learn About Specific Fruits

Click images below to learn how to dehydrate these fruits:

Choose the Best Fruits for Dehydrating

Drying fruit is best done when your favorite fruits are in peak season. You’ll not only get better flavor but also save money, as fruits are most affordable when they’re abundant in grocery stores and at local markets.

💡 Pro Tip: Here’s a handy guide that shows you how much fresh fruit to buy to fill a 4-tray dehydrator efficiently!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Dehydrate Fruit at Home? (Top Benefits)

✅ Healthy, on-the-go snack
✅ Retains more nutrients than canning or freezing
✅ No added sugars or preservatives

3 Best Ways to Dehydrate Fruit (Oven, Dehydrator & Sun)

You can dehydrate fruit using an

• An Oven – Slower but widely accessible
• A Dehydrator – Faster, more efficient results
• The Sun – Eco-friendly, but takes longer

Oven Drying: A Simple, No-Equipment Method

1. Preheat oven to 140-160°F
2. Wash and slice fruit into uniform pieces
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone mat
4. Arrange fruit in a single layer, ensuring pieces don’t touch
5. Bake for 6-8 hours, checking periodically
6. Cool completely before storing in airtight containers

💡 Pro Tip: Use our Fahrenheit to Celsius converter here on our site!

Using a Dehydrator for Perfectly Dried Fruit

1. Wash and slice fruit evenly
2. Arrange slices in a single layer on trays
3. Set dehydrator to 135°F (or recommended temp per fruit)
4. Dry for 6-8 hours (larger fruits like grapes may take longer)
5. Cool & store in airtight containers

💡 Pro Tip: Check individual fruit pages for specific drying times and temperatures.

Sun-Drying Fruit: A Natural, No-Electricity Option

1. Place fruit slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet
2. Set in a sunny, well-ventilated area
3. Cover loosely with mesh to prevent bugs
4. Allow 2-4 days to fully dehydrate, flipping occasionally
5. Store properly once dried

🚨 Weather matters! Ensure warm, dry conditions for best results.

How to Tell When Dehydrated Fruit is Done

Dried fruit should feel leathery yet pliable. If pieces stick together, allow them to sit in a Ziploc bag overnight for moisture distribution (conditioning) before vacuum sealing.

How to Store Dehydrated Fruit for Long-Term Freshness

✔ Airtight containers at room temp – lasts 6 months
✔ Refrigerator – lasts 1 year
✔ Freezer – lasts up to 2 years

💡 Best storage option? Use Mason jars for easy visibility!

Can You Dehydrate Frozen Fruit? (Yes, Here’s How)

Yes! Simply thaw frozen fruit in a sieve over a bowl (or the sink) to remove excess moisture before slicing it. Find specific details on each fruit’s individual page where applicable.

Can Pets Eat Dehydrated Fruit? (Safe & Unsafe Choices)

Yes! Dehydrated fruits & veggies make healthy treats for pets. Avoid added sugars and check safe options for dogs.

Check out my pumpkin treats for dogs for a nutritious, pet-friendly snack!

Get Your Free Guide to Dehydrating Food!

Don't forget to grab your free Six Simple Steps eBook! It’s packed with tips for dehydrating everything from fruits and veggies to dog treats. Get it here.