Air Fryer Fruit Drying: A Healthy, Quick Treat?

Yes, you can dry fruit in an air fryer. Many air fryers have a built-in dehydrate function, but even if yours doesn't, you can still dry fruit by setting your air fryer to its lowest temperature setting. The drying process can take anywhere from one to six hours, depending on the fruit.

Air fryer temperature settings for drying fruit

Air fryers are a great alternative to ovens when drying fruit. They are faster, more efficient, and can be used to make small batches of dried fruit.

The ideal temperature for drying fruit in an air fryer is around 135ºF (57ºC). This temperature setting will slowly remove the moisture from the fruit without cooking it, preserving its nutritional value and flavor. The temperature range for drying fruit is between 125ºF to 145ºF (52ºC to 63ºC).

If your air fryer doesn't have a dehydrate setting, you can still dehydrate fruit by setting it to the lowest temperature available. If the lowest setting is above 135ºF, use that and check the fruit more frequently to prevent burning. You can extend the cooking time to compensate for higher temperatures. It is recommended to leave the air fryer door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape.

For example, to dry orange slices, set your air fryer to the lowest temperature setting possible (175ºF or lower if possible). After 30 minutes, flip the slices over and let them dehydrate for another 15 minutes. Check the fruit regularly to prevent burning. The slices are done when the centers are hard to the touch and the rind has not started to turn brown.

Air fryers with a built-in dehydrate function will usually have a lower temperature setting, around 135ºF, which is ideal for drying fruit. Using the dehydrate function is often less risky than using the lowest heat setting, as the fruit will dry before it is at risk of cooking and browning.

The time it takes to dehydrate fruit in an air fryer depends on the fruit type, thickness, and the air fryer model. Air fryers typically take 3-8 hours to dehydrate fruit, while ovens can take 6-12 hours.

How to prepare fruit for drying in an air fryer

Preparing fruit for drying in an air fryer is a simple process, but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure the best results. Here's a guide on how to prepare your fruit for drying in an air fryer:

Selecting the Fruit

First, choose the right type of fruit for drying. Most fruits can be dehydrated in an air fryer, but some popular choices are apples, bananas, strawberries, peaches, and pineapples due to their high water content and natural sweetness. You can also get creative and try drying other fruits like oranges, lemons, mangoes, blueberries, or grapes.

Washing and Preparing the Fruit

Once you've selected your fruit, wash and dry it thoroughly. Remove any stems, pits, or tough skins, and cut the fruit into uniform slices. The recommended thickness for most fruits is about 1/4 inch to ensure even dehydration. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline for consistent slices. If you're drying small berries, you can leave them whole.

Adding Flavor Enhancers (Optional)

Before placing the fruit in the air fryer, you can optionally add some flavor enhancers. Common options include cinnamon, sugar, honey, or lemon juice. These additives can enhance the flavor, preserve color, or increase the sweetness of the dried fruit. Remember to be light-handed with the flavorings as their intensity will concentrate during the dehydration process.

Using Parchment Paper or Dehydrator Racks (Optional)

To prevent the fruit from sticking to the air fryer basket and to make cleanup easier, consider lining the basket with parchment paper. Alternatively, you can use dehydrator racks or mesh trays, which are especially useful for small fruits or cut pieces as they provide excellent air circulation.

Setting Up the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to the lowest temperature setting, ideally around 125°F to 145°F. If your air fryer doesn't have a dehydrate setting, don't worry—you can still dehydrate fruit at a low temperature. Just be sure to check the fruit more frequently to prevent over-drying.

Now that you've prepared your fruit and set up your air fryer, you're ready to start the dehydration process. Place the fruit slices in the air fryer, making sure they don't overlap, and let the air fryer work its magic! Depending on the fruit and your desired level of dryness, the process can take anywhere from 3 to 8 hours.

How long does it take to dry fruit in an air fryer?

Yes, you can easily dehydrate fruits in an air fryer. The time it takes to dehydrate fruit in an air fryer depends on the type of fruit and the thickness of the slices.

Air fryers typically dehydrate fruits faster than ovens. While oven dehydration can take 6-12 hours, air fryers usually complete the process in 3-8 hours. For example, dehydrating orange slices in an air fryer takes about 45 minutes, while it takes 6 hours in an oven.

The dehydration time also depends on the type of fruit and its water content. Apples, known for their high juice content, will take longer to dehydrate than kale, which doesn't hold much moisture. The desired level of dryness is another factor that affects dehydration time. It is recommended to check the fruit every hour to monitor progress, as drying times may vary, and rely on texture rather than strict timings.

The thickness of the fruit slices also plays a role in dehydration time. Thinner slices, around 1/4-inch thick, will dehydrate faster and result in a crispier texture, while thicker slices, 1/2-inch or thicker, will take longer and provide a chewier texture. It is important to cut the fruit uniformly to ensure even dehydration.

Additionally, the model and efficiency of the air fryer can impact the dehydration time. Most fruits will dehydrate at a temperature setting of 175 degrees Fahrenheit in the air fryer, but some fruits, like mangoes, may require a higher temperature of 135-145 degrees Fahrenheit.

In summary, the time it takes to dehydrate fruit in an air fryer varies depending on the type of fruit, the thickness of the slices, the desired level of dryness, and the model of the air fryer. However, air fryers generally offer a quicker and more efficient method for dehydrating fruits compared to traditional oven dehydration.

What types of fruit can be dried in an air fryer?

Many types of fruit can be dried in an air fryer, and it's a simple process. The air fryer's controlled and circulating heat makes it quicker than using an oven. Some air fryers even have a built-in dehydrate function, but if yours doesn't, you can still dry fruit by setting the machine to its lowest temperature setting.

Thin slices of fruit dry the quickest. For example, strawberries, apples, bananas, and oranges can be cut into slices around 1/4-inch thick. Smaller fruits like berries and grapes can be left whole. It's also a good idea to pat the fruit dry with a clean cloth before placing it in the air fryer.

The drying time will depend on the fruit you choose, but it can take anywhere from one to six hours. You should check the fruit regularly to make sure it's not burning. The fruit is done when the centre is hard to the touch.

Some fruits you can dry in an air fryer include:

• Strawberries
• Apples
• Bananas
• Oranges
• Grapefruits
• Lemons
• Limes
• Tomatoes
• Zucchini
• Yellow squash
• Carrots
• Kale
• Grapes
• Berries

How to store dried fruit

Dried fruits can be stored in a few different ways, but the aim is always to keep them in a cool, dry, dark location. Using glass containers allows you to see any moisture buildup immediately.

Firstly, dried fruits must be conditioned before they are stored. Place them loosely in jars and shake once a day for seven to ten days. If you see condensation, return the fruit to the dehydrator.

Next, store the dried fruit in airtight containers or freezer bags. If using freezer bags, remove all air from the bag before sealing. Vacuum sealing will give the best results as it removes air and keeps moisture and mould away from the fruit.

Store dried fruit in small batches to maintain freshness and minimise the risk of contamination. Label each container with the date it was packaged.

Dried fruits can be stored for up to a year, but if you want to use them over a longer period, keep them in the freezer.

Frequently asked questions