Fruit Leather (AKA fruit rollups)

Fruit snacks, must be healthy right? Especially with the labels proclaiming fat free! gluten free! made with real juice! Wrong. Those little packets are basically fruit flavored sugar and preservatives. Don't get me wrong, there is a few brands that are a bit better. But why spend that much money on something you can make yourself that is less expensive, healthier, and only actually has fruit in it?

I have made these since I was a wee sprite and they taste great and hold up well to backpacks and gymbags alike.

Fruit Leather

4  c strawberries or whatever fruit is in season

Preheat your oven to 150°F (or as low as your oven will go). Line an 11-by-17 cookie sheet with a Silpat baking mat. If you don't have one, use parchment paper, although a Silpat will offer better results.

Wash, dry, and cut up four cups of strawberries (or other in-season fruit of your choice, such as peaches, bananas, or raspberries; frozen fruit works, too). Place in a food processor or blender.
Puree the fruit until completely smooth, about 30 seconds.

Pour the pureed fruit onto the prepared pan. Use the back of a spoon or spatula to spread it out evenly. Carefully slide the pan into the oven, and bake for eight hours (or six to seven hours if your oven is at a slightly higher temperature).

Remove the pan once the fruit is set and still slightly tacky. Be careful not to overcook, as you'll end up with fruit chips instead of fruit leather.

Once the fruit has cooled to room temperature, slowly peel it off the mat or parchment paper. Lay it on a cutting board, and use a knife to cut out 12 portions; store in an airtight container

I have used a dehydrator for these too, especially if you have the solid tray for wet foods. Times vary depending on season and humidity where you are but you will get the hang of it quickly.

I think they taste much much better and are packed with energy and vitamins.