Unlock the secret to making your own perfectly chewy, sweet-tart dried blueberries with this easy homemade method! Ideal for preserving fresh blueberries at their peak, this recipe combines a splash of lemon juice to enhance flavor and optional sugar for added sweetness. Using either an oven or a dehydrator, you can achieve beautifully shriveled yet tender bites that are perfect for snacking, baking, or topping yogurt and salads. With minimal prep time and a few hours of low-temperature drying, you’ll love the natural flavors and long storage potential of these DIY dried blueberries. Say goodbye to store-bought and hello to a pantry staple made fresh at home!
Preheat your oven to 120°C (250°F) or set a dehydrator to the low fruit setting.
Rinse the fresh blueberries thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the blueberries with lemon juice to help preserve their color and enhance the flavor.
If desired, sprinkle the sugar over the blueberries and mix gently to coat (this step is optional and adds a touch of sweetness).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use the trays provided if using a dehydrator. Spread the blueberries out in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping.
Place the baking sheet in the oven or set the dehydrator to work. Dry the blueberries for 4-6 hours, checking periodically. Rotate the tray or stir the blueberries gently after the first 2 hours to ensure even drying.
The blueberries are done when they are shriveled yet still slightly pliable. Avoid over-drying; they should not become hard and brittle.
Remove the blueberries from the oven or dehydrator and allow them to cool to room temperature.
Store the dried blueberries in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer.
Calories |
339 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 1.8 g | 2% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.4 g | 2% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 4 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 85.6 g | 31% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.3 g | 44% | |
| Total Sugars | 64.0 g | ||
| Protein | 3.5 g | 7% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 32 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 1.4 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 416 mg | 9% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.