How to Make  Dehydrated Citrus Slices in the Oven

Capture the vibrant flavors of citrus with my homemade dehydrated citrus slices recipe. Whether adorning cocktails, topping baked goods, or blended into a zesty powder, these treats are a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Don't forget the oven nuances and rotational care for that perfect, sun-kissed crispiness. Explore the joy of preserving sunshine in every bite!

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I decided to turn my aging citrus into cocktail (mocktail) garnish masterpieces! 🍋✨ Rather than tossing those slightly aged fruits, I transformed them into dehydrated slices for a flavor-packed upgrade to my favorite drinks. 🥂💫 Sustainability meets mixology, and the result is a burst of citrusy goodness that adds a unique twist to every sip. 🍹 Reduce waste, and infuse your drinks or top your favorite cakes with a zesty kick! ♻️🍊

Ingredients Used:

• 1 Pomelo Grapefruit, cut into ¼ inch slices
• 2 Seedless Limes, cut into ¼ inch slices
• 2 Blood Oranges, cut into ¼-inch slices
• 2 Lemons, cut into ¼ inch slices (not pictured)

^{*Feel free to use your favorite Citrus Fruit}

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Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 170°F (77°C).

2. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and set it aside.

3. Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife to slice the citrus fruits into slices that are no more than ¼" in width. Make sure that the slices are uniform in thickness for even dehydration. Thicker slices will require a longer drying time.

4. Place the citrus slices onto the parchment-lined tray, making sure that they are not touching each other.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 3-6 hours, depending on the size and thickness of the citrus slices. Lemons and limes will dehydrate more quickly, followed by oranges, and grapefruit will take the longest.

6. After about 2 hours of baking, flip the citrus slices so that the side facing the parchment paper is now exposed. Rotate the tray to ensure even dehydration, placing the citrus that was closest to the glass in the back of the oven. Repeat this process every 2 hours or as needed.

7. Once the citrus slices have no more moisture and are brittle to the touch, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on the tray.

8. Once cooled, store the dehydrated citrus slices in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. I prefer to store them in the refrigerator. Please ensure that whatever you chose, you stick to that storage method.

9. Use the dehydrated citrus slices as a flavorful cocktail garnish, a topping on baked goods, or blend them into a citrus powder for various culinary applications.

Dried Lemons (2-3 hours)

‍Dried Limes (2-3 hours)

Dried Oranges (3-4 hours)

Dried Grapefruit (5+ hours)

Notes:

1. Arrangement for Dehydration:When arranging the citrus slices on the sheet pan, consider placing the largest fruit, such as grapefruit, on the lower racks of the oven, and the smaller fruits like lemons and limes on the upper racks. This ensures even dehydration, as larger slices may take longer to dry.

2. Oven Temperature Variations: Keep in mind that oven temperatures can vary, so it's crucial to monitor the dehydration process closely. Check the citrus slices regularly, especially during the later stages of drying, to prevent overcooking. Adjust the drying time accordingly based on your oven's performance.

3. Rotating for Even Dehydration: Rotate the tray and flip the citrus slices every 2 hours to promote uniform drying. This is particularly important for larger fruit slices that may be placed on the lower racks, as they may experience different heat levels within the oven.

4. Brittle Texture Indicator: The citrus slices should reach a brittle texture when fully dehydrated. Test their doneness by touching them; they should be dry and crisp. If any slices still feel moist, continue the dehydration process until they reach the desired consistency.

5. Storage: Store the dehydrated citrus slices in an airtight container and place in the refrigerator for up to 6-months. Proper storage helps maintain their crispiness and extends their shelf life.

6. Experiment with Timing: Given the variations in oven performance, you may need to experiment with the drying time to find the optimal duration for your specific oven. It's always better to under-dry initially and add more time if needed to achieve the desired texture.

Enjoy!