Candied fruits in a drying oven: how to make a healthy dessert

Sweets are rarely healthy, even though they usually have a pleasant taste and delicate aroma. One of the few exceptions is candied fruits (homemade dried fruits with sugar or without it) – dried fruits and/or berries rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other essential nutrients for the human body.

In candied fruits, the role of sweetener is played by fructose – a natural sugar with a low glycemic index that doesn’t cause a sharp rise in insulin production. Thanks to this, candied fruits are suitable even for diabetics, people on a diet, and those who want to lose weight. You can buy them ready-made or prepare them at home. For that, you only need fresh fruits or berries and a food dehydrator (drying oven).

Classic candied fruit recipe

Traditionally, candied fruits are made from pineapples or citrus fruits, but they also turn out delicious from plums, apples, pears, and other seasonal fruits. To make a healthy homemade dessert, you’ll need 1 kg of fruits (or a mix of them). Some people add sugar to intensify the flavor, but in this case, the snack will be more caloric and less healthy.

Wash and dry apples, pears, or other fruits. Cut them into slices or cubes (not too thin). If the skin is thick or tough, remove it with a knife or vegetable peeler.

Place the slices on a tray and leave for 30–60 minutes to let the juice come out.

If you decide to make candied fruits with sugar, sprinkle the pieces or roll them in sugar before drying. In this case, leave them for no more than 20 minutes.

Put the tray into the drying oven (dehydrator), set the temperature to 55–60°C (130–140°F), and dry for 10–12 hours depending on the juiciness of the fruit.

The finished snacks should be soft but dry. Store them in an airtight glass jar or clay container for several months.

Candied fruits can be eaten as a healthy snack, or used as an ingredient in homemade granola bars, healthy desserts, baked goods, compotes, smoothies, or fruit drinks.

Convenient CraftOil drying ovens for home and commercial use

CraftOil is a Ukrainian manufacturer of natural cold-pressed oils that also offers a wide range of food dehydrators (drying ovens). Their certified equipment is made of food-grade stainless steel, features a convenient control system, multiple programs, and convection (air circulation) that ensures even drying without over-dehydrating.

Models CШ-М and CШ-М2 – ideal for home kitchens. They simplify the preparation of herbs, spices, medicinal plants, mushrooms, root vegetables, and fruits. In these ovens, you can also make chips, yogurt, marshmallows, meringues, sterilize jars, proof dough, and even prepare hard and semi-hard cheese.

Models CШ-1, CШ-2, and CШ-4 – professional equipment for commercial use. They are perfect for expanding product lines, drying fruits and vegetables for winter storage, and preparing dried fish, meat, and semi-finished products.

Want to know more about the benefits of CraftOil drying ovens? Not sure which model to choose? Our consultants will gladly answer your questions and help you select the best equipment for your needs. Just send us a request through our website.