Description
3-Ingredient Homemade Strawberry Fruit Roll-Ups
Take a nostalgic trip back to your childhood with these homemade strawberry fruit roll-ups! Made with just three simple ingredients, this healthy version of your favorite treat is easy to prepare—no fancy dehydrator required. Not only are they great for kids, but adults will love the natural sweetness and simplicity too!
3 cups strawberries (fresh or thawed frozen)
3 Tbsp honey
2 Tbsp lemon juice
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 140-170°F. Line a sheet-pan with parchment paper.
2. Blend strawberries, honey, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Spread mixture evenly on the sheet-pan (about ⅛ to ¼ inch thick).
4. Bake for 4-6 hours until the center is no longer tacky.
5. Cool, cut into strips, and enjoy!
Prep Time: 4-6 hrs
Kcal: 25 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect fruit roll-ups every time. Start by preheating your oven to its lowest setting, ideally between 140°F and 170°F. Line a standard baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it lies flat. In a high-speed blender, combine 3 cups of hulled strawberries, 3 tablespoons of honey, and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth and pourable. Carefully pour the puree onto the center of your prepared baking sheet. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the puree into a thin, even rectangle, about 1/8-inch thick. Avoid making the edges too thin. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. The drying process will take 4 to 6 hours. The roll-up is done when the surface is dry to the touch and pliable, and the center is no longer sticky or tacky.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooled and cut, these homemade roll-ups are incredibly versatile. For a fun snack, roll the strips into coils and secure them with a piece of parchment paper. Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet, healthy treat. Crumble the roll-ups over Greek yogurt or oatmeal for a burst of fruity flavor. For a party, create a “fruit leather” charcuterie board with different flavors and let guests create their own rolls with nuts or coconut flakes. They also make excellent, natural decorations for cakes and cupcakes.
How-to Summary
To quickly recap: Blend strawberries, honey, and lemon juice into a smooth puree. Spread it thinly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Dry in a low oven (140-170°F) for 4-6 hours until pliable and non-tacky. Cool completely, then cut into strips and store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, frozen strawberries work perfectly. Thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid extending the drying time.
My oven doesn’t go that low. What can I do? If your oven’s lowest setting is 200°F, prop the door open slightly with a wooden spoon to allow moisture to escape and prevent cooking the fruit.
How do I store homemade fruit roll-ups? Store them layered between parchment paper in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for a month.
Can I make these without honey? Absolutely. Maple syrup or agave nectar are great vegan substitutes. The lemon juice is crucial for flavor and preservation, so don’t omit it.
Why is my fruit leather still sticky after 6 hours? This is usually due to the puree being spread too thickly, high humidity, or an oven temperature that’s slightly too low. Simply return it to the oven for another hour, checking frequently.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Spreading the Puree Unevenly: Thin or thick spots will dry at different rates, leading to some parts being overdone while others are still sticky.
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: Do not use wax paper or grease the pan directly, as the fruit leather will be impossible to remove cleanly.
- Rushing the Drying Process: Increasing the oven temperature will cook the fruit, creating a brittle or burnt result instead of a chewy leather.
- Cutting Before Fully Cooled: The fruit leather needs to cool completely to finish setting and achieve the right texture.
Conclusion
Creating your own 3-Ingredient Strawberry Fruit Roll-Ups is a simple, rewarding process that transforms fresh fruit into a wholesome, nostalgic snack. By controlling the ingredients, you avoid artificial additives and excess sugar, making this a treat you can feel good about sharing. With this comprehensive guide, you’re equipped to avoid common pitfalls and enjoy delicious, chewy fruit leather straight from your own kitchen.