Best Types of Foods to Dehydrate for Snacking

When I first started dehydrating, I was doing it for the long-term storage benefits and ability to make meals in jars. 

However, it didn’t take long for my kiddos to sneak bites here and there and realize that Mom’s dried foods made wonderful snacks. 

Now, I intentionally dehydrate certain foods for snacking. 

Let’s discuss a few!

Best Fruits to Dehydrate for Snacks

If you’re looking for a healthy, tasty, and easy-to-make snack, dehydrating fruits can be an excellent option. 

Not only do dehydrated fruits have a longer shelf life than fresh fruits, but they’re also a great way to preserve fruits’ nutrients and flavors. 

Here are some of the best fruits to dehydrate for snacks:

Berries

Berries are a popular choice for dehydrating because they’re small, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. 

Blueberries, raspberries, and cherries are all excellent options for dehydrating. 

To prepare them, simply wash and dry the berries, remove any stems or pits, and slice them in half. Then, place them on a dehydrator tray and dry them at 125°F for 10-16 hours or until they’re completely dry.

Tropical Fruits

Tropical fruits like pineapple and watermelon can also be dehydrated for a delicious and healthy snack. To prepare them, slice the fruits into thin pieces and remove any seeds or rinds. 

Next, place them on a dehydrator tray and dry them at 125-130°F for 12-24 hours or until they’re dry and chewy. (They typically don’t get hard or crunchy.)

Apples

Apples are another popular fruit for dehydrating, and they make a great snack for kids and adults alike. 

To prepare them, slice the apples into thin pieces and remove the seeds and core. Then, place them on a dehydrator tray and dry them at 125°F for 8-12 hours or until they’re dry.

For added flavor, try sprinkling cinnamon on them before drying!

Fruit Leather

Fruit leather is a fun and tasty snack that’s easy to make with a dehydrator. 

To make fruit leather, blend your favorite fruits (like strawberries, figs, or peaches) into a puree and spread it out on a dehydrator tray. 

You’ll want to use parchment paper or silicone mats like these:

Dry it at 135°F for 6-8 hours or until it’s dry and flexible. You can cut the fruit leather into strips or shapes for a fun and healthy snack.

Pears

Pears are a sweet and juicy fruit that can be dehydrated for a tasty and healthy snack.

We have an entire tutorial for dehydrating pears here.

Best Vegetables to Dehydrate for Snacks

If you’re looking for healthy and tasty snacks, dehydrated vegetables are a great option. They are easy to make, portable, and can be stored for a long time. 

Here are some of the best vegetables to dehydrate for snacks:

Flavored Zucchini Chunks

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can be used in many different ways. One way to enjoy zucchini as a snack is to dehydrate it. 

However, I wouldn’t dry it plain. Yuck. 

Instead, soak it in your favorite fruit juice first! Zucchini takes on the flavor of whatever it is soaked in and/or cooked with. 

I use pineapple juice, and you can’t even tell it’s zucchini! 

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Here’s how to make dehydrated “mock pineapple” zucchini chunks:

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Kale Chips

Kale is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is perfect for making chips. Wash and dry the kale leaves, remove the stems, and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. 

Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Dehydrate until crispy and enjoy as a crunchy snack.

If they aren’t quite as crispy as you like, pop them in the air fryer for 3 minutes before serving!

Eggplant

Eggplant is another vegetable that can be dehydrated and turned into chips. Cut the eggplant into thin slices, and sprinkle with salt to remove excess moisture. 

Rinse and pat dry, then season with your favorite spices. Dehydrate until crispy and enjoy as a healthy snack.

Sugar Snap Peas

Sugar snap peas are a great vegetable to dehydrate for a sweet and crunchy snack. Wash and dry the peas, remove the strings (if your pea variety has them), and blanch for a few seconds in boiling water. 

Rinse in cold water and pat dry. Dehydrate until crispy and enjoy as a healthy snack.

Other vegetables that are great for dehydrating include potatoes, carrots, green beans, peas, and onions. They don’t make the best snacks, but they are wonderful for dehydrating and adding to your long-term food storage. 

Best Dehydrated Meat Snacks

If you’re looking for a high-protein snack that’s easy to take on the go, dehydrated meat snacks are a great option. 

Here are some of the best dehydrated meat snacks to try:

Beef Jerky

Beef jerky is a classic dehydrated meat snack that’s high in protein and low in fat. To make beef jerky, you’ll need to start with lean cuts of beef, such as flank steak or sirloin. 

Trim off any visible fat, and slice the meat into thin strips. If you like, marinate the meat in a mixture of Worcestershire sauce, and your choice of seasonings for at least 8 hours. 

Finally, dehydrate the meat in a dehydrator or oven until it’s dry and chewy. 

Dried meat isn’t as shelf-stable as dried fruits and vegetables, so plan to enjoy within a few weeks.

Deer Jerky

If you’re looking for a leaner alternative to beef jerky, deer jerky is a great option. Deer meat is lower in fat than beef but still has plenty of protein. 

To make deer jerky, you’ll need to start with lean cuts of deer meat, such as the backstrap or hindquarters. Trim off any visible fat, and slice the meat into thin strips. 

Soak in whatever marinade you like, then dehydrate the meat in a dehydrator or oven until it’s dry and chewy. I usually run the dehydrator at least 12 hours. 

When making any type of jerky, it’s important to use lean cuts of meat and to remove any visible fat. This will help prevent spoilage and ensure that your jerky is safe to eat.

Quick Tips for Keeping Your Dehydrated Snacks Fresh

Dehydrated snacks have a longer shelf life than fresh snacks, but they still have a limit. The way you store your dehydrated snacks can make a big difference in how long they last. 

Store your snacks in an airtight container to keep out moisture and air, which can cause them to go stale (or accidentally rehydrate).

Store your jars or containers in a dark place out of direct sunlight. 

Enjoy your healthy and convenient snacks anytime, anywhere!

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