Apple Fruit Rolls
Many parents buy Fruit Roll-Ups for their children, thinking they're purchasing healthy snacks. After all, if the word "fruit" is in the title, then it must be a good choice, right? Take a look at the ingredients list in a Strawberry Fruit Roll-Up:Pears From Concentrate, Corn Syrup, Dried Corn Syrup, Sugar, Partially Hydrogenated Cottonseed Oil, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Acetylated Mono And Diglycerides, Pectin, Malic Acid, Natural Flavor, Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), Color (Red 40, Yellows 5 & 6, Blue 1).So, where exactly are the strawberries? Although this roll-up does contain some fruit (pears), it's mostly made of chemicals, dyes, and preservatives. Yummy. You can find fruit leather that is 100% fruit with no chemicals added, but those brands are usually pricey. When you spend as much as $.65 for one stick, it adds up.This recipe for a healthy fruit roll can be made at home in a dehydrator. Don't have a dehydrator? Borrow one from a friend, or buy one. Your stomach will thank you later.
Equipment
- Dehydrator
Ingredients
- 4 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Mix applesauce and cinnamon in a large bowl, and set aside. Place two fruit roll sheets on two dehydrator trays. Rub a little olive oil on trays to prevent sticking.
- Dry at 135 degrees 6-8 hours or until fruit has the consistency of leather. Use a small spatula or knife to remove fruit from trays while it is still warm. Cut into strips, roll, and enjoy!
