Watermelon Fruit Leather
A chewy, sweet snack that captures the essence of summer, perfect for healthy snacking at home or on-the-go.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups ripe watermelon, pureed Use ripe watermelon for best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Optional for added zing.
- to taste sweetener of choice (e.g., honey or maple syrup) Optional for additional sweetness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut a ripe watermelon into chunks, remove the seeds, and puree in a blender until smooth. If desired, add lemon juice and sweetener for an extra zing.
Setup
- If you have a dehydrator, set it to 135°F (57°C). If using an oven, preheat it to the lowest setting (around 170°F or 77°C). Line a baking sheet or dehydrator tray with parchment paper.
Spreading the Puree
- Pour the watermelon puree onto the lined baking sheet or dehydrator tray and spread it evenly, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
Drying Process
- Place the puree in your dehydrator or oven. If using an oven, prop the door slightly open to allow moisture to escape. The drying process usually takes between 6 to 10 hours.
- Check periodically until the leather is no longer sticky to the touch but still pliable.
Cooling and Cutting
- Once dried, remove the watermelon fruit leather from the heat and let it cool completely.
- Cut it into strips or squares and wrap them in parchment paper for easy storage.
Notes
Store your fruit leather in an airtight container. It can last for up to six months if kept in a cool, dry place.