Some of the most magical recipes are born from simplicity. This raspberry fruit leather takes me back to childhood summers spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where preserving the season’s bounty was an art form. With just three ingredients, we transform fresh raspberries into a chewy, vibrant snack that captures the essence of summer in every bite. No preservatives, no complicated processes – just pure, simple goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only 3 ingredients
• No added sugar
• Naturally sweet
• Kid-friendly snack
• Preservative-free
• Easy to make
• Great way to use extra fruit
• Healthy alternative to store-bought treats

Recipe Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Dry Time: 6-8 hours
• Total Time: 6-8 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 8-10 strips
• Calories: Approximately 30 calories per strip

Ingredients & Equipment

3 Simple Ingredients

• 3 cups fresh raspberries
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Optional Add-Ins

• Chia seeds
• Cinnamon
• Vanilla extract
• Other berries

Equipment

• Blender or food processor
• Baking sheet
• Silicone baking mat or parchment paper
• Fine-mesh strainer (optional)
• Spatula
• Knife or pizza cutter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Raspberries
   Wash raspberries thoroughly. Remove any stems or damaged berries.
2. Blend the Mixture
   In a blender, combine raspberries, honey, and lemon juice. Blend until completely smooth.
3. Strain (Optional)
   For a seedless leather, strain mixture through a fine-mesh strainer. This step is optional but creates a smoother texture.
4. Prepare for Drying
   Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper. Ensure it covers the entire surface.
5. Spread the Mixture
   Pour blended raspberries onto the lined baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread into a thin, even layer, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Dry the Leather
   Place in oven with door slightly ajar at lowest setting (170-200°F) for 6-8 hours. Alternatively, use a food dehydrator.
7. Check for Doneness
   Fruit leather is ready when it’s no longer sticky and can be peeled from the liner easily.
8. Cut and Store
   Once cooled, cut into strips. Roll up or store flat between parchment paper.

Expert Tips

1. Evenness is Key: Spread mixture as evenly as possible for consistent drying.
2. Oven Technique: Keep oven door slightly open to allow moisture to escape.
3. Storage Hack: Use parchment paper between rolls to prevent sticking.

Substitutions and Variations

• Berry Alternatives:
• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• Mixed berries
• Blackberries
• Sweetener Options:
• Maple syrup
• Agave nectar
• Skip sweetener for unsweetened version
• Flavor Boosters:
• Add vanilla extract
• Sprinkle with cinnamon
• Mix in chia seeds

Troubleshooting Guide

• Too Sticky:
• Dry for longer
• Spread thinner
• Ensure low, consistent temperature
• Edges Burning:
• Use lowest oven setting
• Rotate baking sheet
• Check more frequently

Storage and Shelf Life

• Room Temperature: 1-2 weeks in airtight container
• Refrigeration: Up to 1 month
• Freezing: Up to 3 months
• Storage Tip: Store between parchment paper

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen raspberries?
A: Yes! Thaw completely and drain excess liquid.

Q: Are these healthy?
A: Packed with fruit, no artificial ingredients.

Q: Kid-friendly?
A: Great snack for all ages!

Q: How thin should I spread the mixture?
A: About 1/8 inch thick for even drying.

Final Thoughts

This 3 Ingredient Raspberry Fruit Leather is more than a snack – it’s a celebration of simple ingredients, a connection to nature’s sweetness captured in every chewy bite.

Preserve the flavor, enjoy the moment!