Freeze-Dried Skittles: Air Fryer Magic In Minutes

Freeze-dried Skittles are a fun and tasty treat that can be made at home with an air fryer. This process can take up to 20 hours, but there is a quicker method that can be done in just 5 to 6 hours. The key is to add the Skittles at the end of a freeze-drying cycle, so they only go through the drying stage. This article will outline the steps to make freeze-dried Skittles and offer packaging and storage suggestions for this unique treat.

The best freeze dryer to use

Freeze-dried Skittles are a fun and tasty treat, and to make them, you'll need a freeze dryer. While there are several options available on the market, the Harvest Right Freeze Dryer is highly recommended. This medium-sized freeze dryer is perfect for freeze-drying Skittles and other candies, and it offers a few key advantages over its competitors.

Firstly, the Harvest Right Freeze Dryer can accommodate up to five trays, which means you can dry a large number of Skittles in one go. It's also possible to purchase an oil-free pump for this machine, which is quieter and eliminates the need to buy and change the oil. While this pump is more expensive, it's a worthwhile investment if you plan to use your freeze dryer regularly.

Another advantage of the Harvest Right Freeze Dryer is its ease of use. Simply select your settings on the touch screen, and the machine will take care of the rest. The drying process typically takes around 5 to 6 hours, which is significantly faster than the 20+ hours that other methods can take.

In addition to Skittles, the Harvest Right Freeze Dryer can be used to dry a variety of other foods, including shredded cheese, diced ham, and marshmallows. So, if you're looking to experiment with different freeze-dried treats, this machine provides plenty of options.

Overall, the Harvest Right Freeze Dryer is an excellent choice for anyone looking to make freeze-dried Skittles or explore the world of freeze-dried foods. Its capacity, ease of use, and versatility make it a top choice for both beginners and experienced food dryers.

How many Skittles to use

The number of Skittles you can fit into your freeze dryer will depend on its size and the number of trays you have available. The author of this method uses a freeze dryer with five trays and fills up all five trays with Skittles, buying two or three 50 oz. bulk bags of Skittles from Walmart to do so. They note that one 50 oz. bag of Skittles can fill two trays, so you can adjust the amount you buy accordingly.

The author also mentions that there is no need to space out the Skittles on the trays, as some people suggest. They fill their trays until there is no space left, with some Skittles overlapping each other, ensuring that the height of the overlapping Skittles does not exceed the rim of the trays. This means you can fit even more Skittles onto each tray.

If you are using a Harvest Right freeze dryer, like the author, one 50 oz. bag of Skittles will fill at least one and a half trays, or two complete trays. So, depending on the size and number of your trays, you can estimate the number of Skittles or bags of Skittles you will need.

It is worth noting that filling the trays to capacity will result in some of the Skittles sticking together. However, the author assures that they are easy to break apart quickly by hand once the process is complete. So, if you are looking to maximize the number of Skittles you freeze dry, this is a trade-off to consider.

Tray spacing and arrangement

When arranging the Skittles on the trays, it is worth noting that the candies do not need to be spaced apart. In fact, the more Skittles you can fit on a tray, the better. The candies will pop open and expand during the freeze-drying process, so you can fill the trays until there is no space left. It is important, however, to ensure that the height of the Skittles does not exceed the rim of the trays. This may mean that some of the Skittles are overlapping, but this is fine. A 50 oz bag of Skittles will fill up to two complete trays in a standard freeze dryer.

If you are using multiple trays, as you would be with a 5-tray freeze dryer, it is important to consider the spacing between the trays as well as the arrangement of the Skittles on each tray. You want to ensure that there is enough space for air to circulate between the trays so that the Skittles can dry evenly. The specific spacing will depend on the model of your air fryer, but a good rule of thumb is to leave at least a finger's width of space between each tray.

When arranging the trays in the air fryer, it is generally best to place them in a single layer, with some space between each tray. This allows for optimal air circulation and even drying. If your air fryer is large enough, you may be able to place the trays on multiple levels, but be sure to leave enough space between the levels for proper airflow.

It is worth noting that the arrangement of the Skittles and the tray spacing can affect the drying time and the final texture of the freeze-dried Skittles. If the Skittles are placed too close together or if the trays are too close to each other, the candies may not dry evenly or completely. On the other hand, if there is too much space between the Skittles or the trays, it may take longer for the drying process to be completed.

By following these guidelines for tray spacing and arrangement, you can ensure that your freeze-dried Skittles turn out perfectly every time. With the right technique, you'll be well on your way to enjoying this tasty treat in no time!

Timing and duration

The timing and duration of the freeze-drying process for Skittles in an air fryer depend on several factors, including the specific model of your freeze dryer, the number of trays you are using, and the desired level of dryness for your Skittles. Here is a detailed breakdown of the timing and duration for each step of the process:

Step One: Freeze-Drying Another Food Item

Firstly, it is important to note that the process of freeze-drying Skittles in an air fryer is most efficient when added as a secondary item after completing a full cycle with another food item. This initial step of freeze-drying another food item, such as shredded cheese or diced ham, will take several hours, depending on the settings and capacity of your freeze dryer.

Step Two: Preparing the Freeze Dryer for Skittles

Once the cycle for the first food item is complete, you will need to open the drain valve and remove the trays of food from the freezer. Then, you can proceed to add "more dry time" to prepare for the Skittles. This step ensures that your freeze dryer is ready for the next batch and should not take more than a few minutes.

Step Three: Adding Trays of Skittles

After preparing the freeze dryer, you can add the trays of Skittles. The time required for this step depends on the number of trays you are using. The author of the process suggests using up to five trays in a Harvest Right Freeze Dryer, and the time taken to fill these trays will vary based on your preferred efficiency and the number of people assisting.

Step Four: Setting the Dry Time

With the trays of Skittles in place, you will need to add approximately six hours of additional dry time. This is the crucial duration for the Skittles to undergo the freeze-drying process. During these six hours, you can package the previously freeze-dried food item or attend to other tasks.

Step Five: Finalising the Process

At the end of the six-hour dry time, you do not need to rush to remove the Skittles immediately. The author notes that even if the cycle ends in the middle of the night, the Skittles can remain in the freeze dryer until morning without significant adverse effects. However, leaving the Skittles for several hours after the cycle may result in slight stickiness, which can be resolved by letting them sit on the counter for a couple of hours.

Packaging and storing

Packaging

• Airtight Containers: The first rule of thumb is to keep your freeze-dried Skittles in airtight containers. Once the original packaging is opened, transfer the Skittles to containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent air and moisture from seeping in and compromising their crunchiness.
• Mylar Bags: Mylar bags are a great option as they are resealable, don't take up much room, and are inexpensive. However, they are susceptible to pests and cannot be stacked, so consider placing them inside a box, can, or bucket for added protection.
• Glass Mason Jars: Glass mason jars are another good choice as they are resealable and allow you to see the contents easily. However, they let in light, so make sure to store them in a dark place.
• Tin Cans: Tin cans are airtight and block light, but they cannot be resealed once opened. If you choose this option, consider using smaller airtight containers inside the can to allow for smaller portions.
• Plastic Buckets: Plastic buckets are ideal for bulk storage or for storing multiple smaller containers like jars or Mylar bags. They do a fairly good job of keeping out air and light.

Storing

• Keep Them Cool: Store your freeze-dried Skittles in a cool, dry place, ideally below 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Basements and underground cellars are good options as they typically stay cool without the need for climate control. Avoid sheds or garages, as they can get hot during the summer months.
• Protect from Humidity: Humidity is the enemy of freeze-dried candies. Keep your Skittles away from sources of moisture such as stoves, dishwashers, and sinks. Silica gel packets or desiccant packs can be added to your storage container to absorb any excess moisture.
• Avoid Heat Sources: Heat can cause your Skittles to soften and stick together. Avoid storing them near ovens, heaters, or direct sunlight. A pantry or cupboard away from appliances and windows is ideal.
• Vacuum-Sealed Containers: For long-term storage, consider using vacuum-sealed containers to remove air and extend the freshness of your Skittles.
• Refrigeration:section While not necessary, refrigeration can provide extra protection against humidity and heat, especially in warmer climates. Just make sure to use airtight containers to prevent odour absorption.
• Rotate Your Stock: If you have a large collection of freeze-dried Skittles, practice rotating your stock to ensure you consume the oldest products first. This prevents them from sitting too long and losing their quality.
• Label Containers: Label each container with the contents and an expiration date, especially if you plan on storing your Skittles for an extended period. This helps with tracking and ensures you always consume them within their maximum lifespan.
• Add Oxygen Absorbers: Although not necessary, adding oxygen absorbers can help eliminate residual oxygen and extend the shelf life of your Skittles. Use one or two per container, and replace them if you open and reseal the container.

Frequently asked questions