Dehydrated Cranberries

• 1–2 lbs fresh cranberries

• 1–2 cups boiling water

• Optional: ¼–½ cup sugar or honey (for sweeter cranberries)

Instructions:

• 1. Prep the cranberries
  Rinse cranberries and pick out any soft or bruised ones.

  2. “Pop” the skins
  Cranberries dehydrate better when the skins are cracked.
  You can do this two ways:

  • Hot water method: Pour boiling water over the berries and let sit 3–4 minutes until you see skins split.

  • Freeze method: Freeze cranberries overnight—this naturally cracks the skin and speeds up drying.

  3. Optional sweetening
  If you want sweeter dried cranberries:

  • Warm ½ cup sugar or honey with ½ cup hot water.

  • Toss cranberries in the mixture and let sit 10 minutes, then drain.

  4. Load the dehydrator trays
  Spread cranberries in a single layer on your Nesco dehydrator trays.
  Try not to let them touch too much—this helps them dry evenly.

  5. Dehydrate

  • Set your NESCO Food Dehydrator to 135°F.

  • Dry for 10–14 hours, depending on size and moisture.

  • They’re done when they’re slightly pliable but no longer juicy.

  6. Condition the cranberries
  Place dried cranberries in a jar for 24 hours, shaking occasionally.
  If moisture collects on the sides, return them to the dehydrator for a bit longer.

  7. Store
  Keep in an airtight jar or bag. Lasts: Up to 1 year in pantry