To dehydrate fruit in a food dehydrator, begin by washing and slicing the fruit into evenly sized pieces. Arrange the fruit slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays, making sure they do not touch or overlap. Set the dehydrator to the appropriate temperature for the type of fruit being dehydrated. Typically, fruits are dehydrated at a temperature between 125-135°F (51-57°C). Allow the fruit to dehydrate for several hours, checking periodically until it reaches the desired consistency. Once the fruit is fully dehydrated, let it cool before storing in an airtight container. Enjoy your homemade dried fruit as a snack, in recipes, or as a topping for cereals or yogurt.
Best Food Dehydrators of 2024
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Rating is 5 out of 5
Septree Large 8 Trays Food Dehydrator with 8.8ft² Drying Space for Big Family, 800W Stainless Steel Dehydrated Dryer, 24H Timer,190°F Temperature Control, for Herbs, Meat, Fruit, Dog Treats and Yogurt
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Versatile Drying Options: The Septree food dehydrator offers a variety of temperature and time settings, allowing you to dehydrate fruits, vegetables, herbs, meats, flowers,nuts, spices, pet food without losing any nutrients.
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Large Capacity: This dehydrator is up to 8.8 ft² of drying space. Dehydrator machine Dimensions L*W*H 16.34*23.3*19.09inch.Its spacious trays can accommodate large quantities of food, making it perfect for families, gardeners, and food enthusiasts.
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Easy to Clean: Made with 304 food-grade stainless steel, the trays are safer, more durable, and dishwasher-safe. The removable trays and drip tray make cleaning a breeze, saving you time and effort.
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
HOPERAN Food Dehydrator, 8 Stainless Steel Trays Dehydrators for Food and Jerky, Herbs, Fruit, Dehydrator Machine with Digital Timer and Temperature Control, Overheat Protection, Recipe Book Included
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⏰ 【Precise Temp & Timer Control Panel】The dehydrator is equipped with an adjustable timer control, allowing you to set drying times in 30-minute increments, with a maximum duration of 24 hours. The digital temperature presets range from 86℉ to 194℉, enabling you to adjust the temperature in increments of 9℉. The timer will display when your dehydration is complete, and it will automatically shut off once finished. This intelligent system ensures that your delicious dehydrated foods are comple
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🍌 【8 trays Large Capacity】8 detachable stainless steel trays, each measuring 11" x 7.87", made from 304 food-grade stainless steel for safety and durability. Ideal for dehydrating various foods such as vegetables, fruits, meats, and flowers, effortlessly locking in minerals and vitamins. All trays are dishwasher safe, eliminating concerns about potential health risks associated with using plastic drying trays. Provide the whole family with plenty of healthy and delicious 100% natural food.
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🍋 【Premium Quality & Easy to Clean & Durable】The food dehydrator is crafted from 100% food-grade stainless steel without bisphenol A, featuring a glass front door for easy monitoring of the drying progress. The stainless steel body is durable and can be easily wiped clean with a damp cloth. After the timer completes, the food and beef jerky dehydrator will shut off automatically. In case of overheating, the overheat protection will activate. Comes with practical recipes and instructions, allowi
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Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Magic Mill Pro Food Dehydrator Machine | 7 Stainless Steel Trays | Dryer for Jerky, Dog Treats, Herb, Meat, Beef, Fruit | Keep Warm Function, Digital Timer and Temperature Control, ETL Approved
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REAR MOUNTED FAN FOR SUPERIOR HEAT DISTRIBUTION – Dries food evenly, This electric dehydration machine is equipped with a rear-mounted drying fan and air flow circulation technology to ensure even drying, there is no need to rotate the shelves as needed by other brands, monitor the dryer process easily with the transparent door window
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SPACIOUS ADJUSTABLE 7 STAINLESS STEEL TRAYS – INCLUDED FRUIT ROLL TRAYS! Use the trays for regular food and the mesh trays for smaller food such as nuts and herbs, for fruit roll ups use the fruit leather sheet which can also be used for drip trays! you can do a lot in one batch with the Magic Mill dehydration machine, the dehydrator comes with 7 premium stainless steel trays.
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Rating is 4.7 out of 5
Magic Mill Food Dehydrator Machine | 5 Stackable Stainless Steel Trays Jerky Dryer with Digital Adjustable Timer & Temperature Control - Electric Food Preserver for Fruits, Veggies, Meats & Dog Treats
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POWERFUL FOOD DRYING PROCESS - Magic Mill Compact Food Dehydrator Machine streamlines 240W drying capacity that offers an efficient food drying process. It removes excess water from foods without compromising their natural juices, taste, and nutrients – boasting a 97% retention rate of vitamins and minerals.
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MULTI-LAYER AND ADJUSTABLE TRAYS - This Fruit and Herb Dehydrator features five (5) food-grade adjustable trays that allow you to dry different foods, fruits, and veggies at once. The standard height between the trays is 0.6 inches, but you can raise each to 1.1 inches – perfect for thick-cut ingredients.
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Rating is 4.6 out of 5
Elite Gourmet EFD319 Food Dehydrator, 5 BPA-Free 11.4" Trays Adjustable Temperature Controls, Jerky, Herbs, Fruit, Veggies, Dried Snacks, Black
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ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE from 95ºF to 158ºF that foods are dehydrated at their optimal temperature and horizontal air flow distributes heat evenly and efficiently.
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FUN AND CRAFTS: Perfect for hobbyists to dry flowers, potpourri or dough crafts and pet lovers to prepare healthy and delicious 100% natural treats for their furry companions.
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EVEN HEAT DISTRIBUTION: using a base mounted fan promotes even drying and air circulation. Large viewing window allows you to monitor the drying process.
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Rating is 4.5 out of 5
COSORI Food Dehydrator Machine for Jerky, 5 BPA-Free 12.2" Trays with 165°F Temperature Control and 48H Timer, 350W Dryer for Fruit, Herbs, Meat, Veggies and Dog Treats, 50-Recipes Book Included
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165°F MAX TEMPERATURE: Adjust the dehydrator between 95-165°F in 1°F increments. Higher temps ensure safer beef jerky. USDA recommends 165°F for safe jerky
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PERFECT RESULTS: With 350W power, the fan efficiently circulates hot air for even heating and drying of your foods
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ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT: Customize tray heights for larger foods (raised) or easier storage (lowered)
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EASY TO CLEAN: Trays are dishwasher-safe for effortless cleaning. Note: Accessories are hand wash only
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Food Dehydrator for Jerky, 8 Stainless Steel Trays Dehydrator Machine with Food Air-Drying Function, 176℉ Temperature Control & 48H Timer, 600W Fruit Dryer for Meat,Beef,Herbs,Dog Treats, ETL Approved
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🥩48-HOUR TIMER & TEMPERATURE CONTROL: DIYAREA Food Dehydrator with smart LED touch screen control offers Fahrenheit/Celsius temperature control. When adjusted to Fahrenheit, the dehydrator adjusts the temperature to 95°F to 176°F in 9°F increments; when adjusted to Celsius, the dehydrator adjusts the temperature to 35°C to 80°C in 5°C increments and sets a timer in 30-minute increments from 0.5 hours to 48 hours.
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🍖OVERHEAT PROTECTION: Beef jerky food dehydrator with thermostat ensures accurate and safe food processing. Meat Dryer The timer automatically shuts off when it expires. Thermal protection activates if the dehydrator overheats, giving you peace of mind throughout the process
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🥝UPGRADED 8-LAYER STAINLESS STEEL TRAYS: Beef dehydrator comes with 8 stainless steel trays, compared with other dehydrator stainless steel trays, our trays have been upgraded: thickened and reinforced. The trays are not easy to deform and dent, scratch resistant and more durable. Our dehydrator trays measure 12 x 12 inches, which has a larger capacity than regular dehydrator trays and can dry more food at once.
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Rating is 4.3 out of 5
Food Dehydrator Machine Detachable, 8 Stainless Steel Trays, LED Display, 48H Timer & 86℉-167℉ Temperature Control, 600W Dryer for Jerky, Herb, Meat, Veggies, Fruit, Dog Treats, Recipe Book Included
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Digital Temperature&Time Control: An enclosed thermostat from 86ºF to 167ºF in 9ºF increments. At the same time, the time can be set from 0.5-48 hours in 30-minute increments. It allows you to achieve the best results when drying different foods. We have prepared 6 optional drying function modes. You can adjust the time and temperature according to actual needs.
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Easy to Clean&Safty: Each stainless steel tray is dishwasher safe or washed with warm soapy water. When the timer ends, the dehydrators for jerky will automatically shut off. If the machine overheats, the overheat protection will turn on.
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Customer Service: KEENSTAR provides 24-hour friendly customer service. If you have any issues related to KEENSTAR food dehydrator, please feel free to contact us. You can dry fruits, vegetables, grains, meats, herbs, and flowers, and also can be used to make snacks for your pets.
How to prevent mold growth on dehydrated fruit?
- Ensure that the fruit is thoroughly cleaned before dehydrating to remove any mold spores or bacteria that may be present.
- Use a food dehydrator that has a temperature control to ensure that the fruit is dried at the proper temperature (usually between 135-145°F) to prevent mold growth.
- Store the dehydrated fruit in airtight containers or resealable bags to prevent moisture from re-entering the fruit and to create a barrier against mold spores.
- Add a food-grade desiccant packet to the container to absorb any excess moisture and prevent mold growth.
- Keep the dehydrated fruit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity.
- Check the dehydrated fruit regularly for any signs of mold growth and discard any pieces that appear to be affected.
- Consider adding a preservative such as citric acid or sulfur dioxide to the fruit before dehydrating to inhibit mold growth.
How to prevent fruits from sticking to the dehydrator trays?
- Use non-stick dehydrator sheets or trays: Some dehydrators come with non-stick sheets that can be placed on the trays to prevent fruits from sticking. If your dehydrator doesn't come with non-stick sheets, you can purchase them separately.
- Use parchment paper: If you don't have non-stick sheets, you can use parchment paper to line the trays before placing the fruits on them. This will prevent the fruits from sticking to the trays.
- Spray the trays with cooking spray: Lightly coat the trays with cooking spray before placing the fruits on them. This will create a non-stick surface and prevent the fruits from sticking.
- Don't overcrowd the trays: Make sure to leave some space between the fruits on the trays to allow for proper air circulation. This will help prevent the fruits from sticking together.
- Rotate the trays: Throughout the dehydration process, rotate the trays every few hours to ensure even drying and prevent the fruits from sticking to the trays.
- Check the fruits periodically: Check on the fruits occasionally during the dehydration process and gently rearrange them if they are starting to stick to the trays.
How to make snack mixes using dehydrated fruit?
To make snack mixes using dehydrated fruit, follow these steps:
- Choose your dehydrated fruits: You can use a variety of dehydrated fruits such as berries, apples, bananas, mango, or pineapple. You can purchase these fruits at a store or make them yourself using a dehydrator.
- Mix in nuts and seeds: To make a well-rounded snack mix, add a variety of nuts and seeds such as almonds, walnuts, cashews, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds.
- Add some sweetness: You can add sweetness to your snack mix by incorporating dried coconut flakes, chocolate chips, or even some honey or maple syrup.
- Season it up: Enhance the flavor of your snack mix by adding spices or seasonings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, or sea salt.
- Mix it all together: Once you have all your ingredients ready, simply toss them together in a bowl until well combined.
- Store in an airtight container: Transfer your snack mix into an airtight container or individual snack bags for easy grab-and-go snacks.
- Enjoy your healthy and delicious snack mix anytime, anywhere!
How to choose the right fruits for dehydrating?
- Choose fruits that are ripe but not overly ripe. Fruits that are too ripe may become mushy or overly sweet when dehydrated.
- Choose fruits that are in season. In-season fruits will be more flavorful and will dehydrate more easily.
- Consider the water content of the fruit. Fruits with higher water content, such as melons and citrus fruits, may take longer to dehydrate and may require additional preparation.
- Choose fruits that are free of blemishes or bruising. Fruits with blemishes or bruises may not dehydrate properly and could spoil during the process.
- Consider the size and shape of the fruit. Smaller fruits, such as berries, may dehydrate more quickly and evenly than larger fruits like apples or peaches.
- Consider the flavor and texture of the fruit. Choose fruits that you enjoy eating fresh, as their flavor and texture will be intensified during the dehydration process.
- Consider the intended use of the dehydrated fruit. If you plan to use the fruit in baked goods or as a snack, choose fruits that will maintain their shape and flavor after dehydration.
What is the purpose of slicing fruit before dehydrating?
Slicing fruit before dehydrating helps to increase the surface area of the fruit, allowing it to dry more evenly and quickly. This also helps to preserve the color and flavor of the fruit, as the dehydration process can be more efficient with smaller pieces. Sliced fruit also tends to have a better texture when dehydrated, as it can become crispy and chewy rather than tough or leathery.
How to make fruit chips in a food dehydrator?
- Choose your favorite fruits to make chips with, such as apples, bananas, strawberries, or mangoes.
- Wash and peel the fruits if necessary, and slice them thinly and evenly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer.
- Lay the fruit slices in a single layer on the trays of the food dehydrator, making sure to leave some space in between each slice for air circulation.
- Turn on the dehydrator and set the temperature to around 135°F (57°C) for most fruits. Refer to the specific instructions for your dehydrator and the type of fruit you are using for the exact temperature and drying time.
- Check the fruit chips periodically and rotate the trays if necessary to ensure even drying. The chips are done when they are completely dry and crisp, which can take anywhere from 6 to 12 hours depending on the fruit and the thickness of the slices.
- Once the fruit chips are done, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. Enjoy as a healthy snack or added to yogurt, oatmeal, or salads for an extra crunch.
