Ingredients
Fruit Base
- 2 ½ lbs whole peaches or 7 cups pitted and chopped peaches (approximately 5-10 peaches depending on size)
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Sweetener (Optional)
- ¼ cup sugar or honey
Instructions
- Simmer the Peaches: Combine the chopped peaches and water in a large pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes or until the peaches start to break down and soften.
- Add Sweetener and Lemon Juice: Stir in the sugar or honey if using, along with the lemon juice. Return the pot to a simmer just long enough to dissolve the sweetener and to thicken the mixture slightly.
- Puree the Peach Mixture: Transfer the peach mixture to a blender in batches and puree until smooth. You should get about 3 ½ cups of peach puree from this step.
- Prepare Dehydrator Trays: Line your dehydrator trays with parchment paper. Spread the peach puree evenly into a thin layer, ensuring the puree is thick enough so the parchment paper underneath isn’t visible. This recipe fits well on three 12-inch square trays or specialized leather trays designed for dehydrators.
- Dehydrate the Puree: Set your dehydrator to 135°F and dry the peach puree for 6 to 8 hours. The leather is ready when it is no longer sticky to the touch.
- Check Moisture Levels: If the edges dry out before the center is done, let the peach leather rest at room temperature to allow the edges to absorb moisture from the air and soften.
- Cut and Store: Once fully dried, cut the peach leather into 2-inch wide strips. You may keep the parchment paper on when cutting to prevent sticking or remove it as preferred. Store the strips in an airtight container for freshness.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm peaches for best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the sweetness according to your taste or omit the sweetener for a naturally sweet snack.
- Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes removing the leather easier.
- Make sure to spread the puree evenly to ensure consistent drying.
- Peach leather can be stored for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container at room temperature or longer if refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Dehydrating
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian