Dehydrating Grapes into Raisins: Recipe

Making raisins from black grapes is a straightforward process that can be done with or without a dehydrator. Here’s how to do it:

Using a Dehydrator
Wash and Dry: Start by washing the grapes thoroughly under cold water. Remove any stems, then dry the grapes completely to remove excess moisture.

Prepare Grapes: If you prefer, you can slice the grapes in half to speed up the drying process, but it’s optional.

Arrange on Dehydrator Trays: Place the grapes on the dehydrator trays in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching each other for better air circulation.

Dehydrate: Set the dehydrator to 135°F (57°C). The drying process can take between 24 to 48 hours, depending on the size of the grapes and the humidity. The grapes are done when they are plump, chewy, and no moisture is visible.

Using an Oven
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to the lowest setting, ideally around 170°F (77°C) or lower.

Prepare Grapes: After washing, drying, and optionally halving the grapes, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Bake: Place the grapes in the oven. Leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. This process can take 10 to 24 hours, depending on your oven and grape size. Check regularly after the first 10 hours.

Cool and Store: Allow the homemade raisins to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. They can last for several months.

Making your own raisins from black grapes not only gives you a delicious, healthy snack but also ensures that excess grapes don’t go to waste. Enjoy your homemade raisins as a snack, in baking, or as a topping for cereal and salads!