How to Dehydrate Grapefruit in an Oven and a Dehydrator

The best way to dehydrate grapefruit is to use a food dehydrator. Wash the grapefruit and cut it into 1/4-inch thick slices. Place the grapefruit slices on food dehydrator trays in a single layer and dehydrate at 135°F for 6 hours or until dry.

How to Dehydrate Grapefruit in a Food Dehydrator

Food dehydrators are more reliable when drying citrus fruit due to a lower temperature setting. Follow these steps to dehydrate grapefruit in a dehydrator:

1. Use a sharp knife to cut grapefruit into even 1/4-inch slices. This will help speed up the drying process.
2. Toss the grapefruit slices in olive oil and salt if desired to enhance the flavor. Make sure the fruit slices are fully covered.
3. Place the grapefruit slices on food dehydrator trays in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch each other.
4. Dehydrate the fruit slices at 135°F for six hours.
5. Once the grapefruit appears dry, test for doneness. If there is any sign of moisture, continue dehydrating until fully dry
6. Once fully dry, remove the grapefruit from the dehydrator and allow to cool to room temperature.
7. Once cooled, store dried grapefruit slices in airtight containers and keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

How to Dehydrate Grapefruit in an Oven

It’s easy to dry citrus fruits like grapefruit using an oven:

1. Preheat the oven to 175°F or the oven’s lowest temperature. The low-temperature setting prevents your grapefruit slices from burning.
2. Place the rack in the center of the oven to ensure proper heat circulation during the drying process.
3. Prepare a baking sheet by placing parchment paper on the tray to prevent the grapefruit slices from sticking and make it easier to remove the dried grapefruit slices.
4. Rinse the grapefruit under cool, running water.
5. Use a sharp knife or mandoline to cut the citrus fruit into 1/4-inch thick slices.
6. Arrange the grapefruit slices on the parchment paper-lined baking sheet in an even layer. All the slices should lay flat without touching.
7. Blot the top of the grapefruit slices with paper towels to remove excess juice.
8. Optional: Sprinkle sugar on top of the fruit slices to create a sweet, shiny surface on the dried grapefruit.
9. To dry the grapefruit, place the baking sheet in the oven. Check on the citrus slices frequently to ensure they don’t burn.
10. Flip the grapefruit slices after 2 hours in the oven and then again 2 hours later.
11. After 5 hours, your citrus fruit slices should be fully dry. Remove the dried grapefruit slices from the oven.
12. Check for doneness by gently pressing on top of the slices. If the pieces are still juicy, return them to the oven to complete the drying process.
13. Once the grapefruit pieces are completely dry, place them on a cooling rack to cool at room temperature.
14. Store ‌dried fruit in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

How Long Does Grapefruit Take to Dehydrate?

It takes 4-6 hours to dehydrate grapefruit at 135°F. The total time varies depending on the method, the humidity, the size of the fruit slices, and the moisture content of the fruit. Continue drying grapefruit slices until they are fully dried with no visible moisture.

Is Dehydrated Grapefruit Good For You?

Dehydrated fruits like grapefruit are a healthy snack when eaten in moderation.

• Dehydrated grapefruit may help with weight loss due to their high fiber content
• Dried grapefruit slices are packed with antioxidants and iron
• Grapefruit is packed with immune-boosting vitamin C
• Grapefruit is loaded with magnesium and potassium which can help regulate blood sugar and blood pressure

What Does Dehydrated Grapefruit Taste Like?

Dehydrated grapefruit has a tangy and slightly bitter taste with a chewy texture. It has a more concentrated flavor than fresh grapefruit.

Can You Dehydrate Grapefruit Slices?

Yes, it is possible to dehydrate grapefruit slices. It is recommended to slice grapefruit with the rind on for better texture and preservation.

How is Dehydrated Grapefruit Different from Fresh Grapefruit?

Dehydrated grapefruit differs from fresh grapefruit in many ways:

• Nutrition: The drying process can slightly reduce the nutritional value of dried grapefruit.
• Texture: Dehydrated grapefruit has a leathery, chewy texture compared to the soft texture and juicy flesh of fresh grapefruit.
• Taste: The drying process removes water content and concentrates sugars in dried grapefruit, resulting in a sweeter taste.
• Shelf Life: The dehydration process extends the shelf life of the fruit.

What Can You Do with Dried Grapefruit?

• Add dried grapefruit to trail mix or granola
• Create a fragrant potpourri with grapefruit, dried lemons, and dried orange slices
• Dried grapefruit can be eaten alone as a healthy snack
• Make home decor like DIY wreaths
• Use alongside other dehydrated citrus slices as an edible cocktail garnish
• Use dried grapefruit pieces in baked goods

Shelf Life and Storage of Dehydrated Grapefruit

Dehydrated grapefruit has a shelf life of 12 months when stored at room temperature. To maximize the shelf life of dehydrated citrus fruits, ensure they are stored in airtight containers and placed in an area away from moisture and heat.