Drying sliced apples can be done in the oven. Here's how:
Oven Drying Sliced Apples
Here’s a simple method for drying sliced apples in your oven:
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Preparation: Preheat your oven to a low temperature of 185°F (85°C). Set up cooling racks on two large baking sheets. These racks prevent the apples from sitting in their own moisture, promoting even drying.
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Apple Preparation: Wash the apples thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel. You can peel them if desired, but leaving the peels on adds fiber and nutrients. Slice the apples into thin, even slices, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Uniform slices ensure they dry at the same rate. An apple slicer/corer can help with this.
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Arrangement: Arrange the apple slices in a single layer on the prepared cooling racks. Avoid overcrowding, as this will hinder proper air circulation and drying.
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Baking: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven.
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Flipping: Bake for 1 hour, then flip the apple slices over to ensure even drying.
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Drying Time: Continue baking for another 1-3 hours, or until the apples are leathery and slightly pliable. The exact drying time will depend on the thickness of the slices and your oven. Check the apples periodically to prevent them from becoming too brittle.
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Cooling: Once the apples are dried to your desired consistency, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on the cooling racks.
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Storage: Store the oven-dried apples in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
By following these steps, you can easily dry sliced apples at home using your oven. This creates a healthy and delicious snack that can be enjoyed anytime.
