Artificial Flavors Free Apple Cinnamon Fruit Leather
Fruit leather from the store almost always comes loaded with "natural and artificial flavors" that are vague at best and concerning at worst — this homemade version keeps things refreshingly straightforward. Real apples, a drizzle of honey, Ceylon cinnamon, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice are all you need to get that chewy, intensely fruity result everyone loves. Ceylon cinnamon is worth seeking out here; it has a softer, more floral warmth than the common cassia variety and lets the apple flavor stay front and center. The process is slow and low — a long oven dry at minimal heat transforms a simple apple purée into something with a satisfying, peel-and-roll texture that feels genuinely snack-worthy. Spreading the purée thin and even is the real trick, and an offset spatula makes it easy to nail that consistent 1/8-inch layer. Once cooled and cut into strips, each piece rolls up neatly in parchment for grab-and-go snacking all week long. It's the kind of recipe that makes you wonder why you ever bought the packaged stuff in the first place.
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Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- 2 lbs apples (about 4 medium), peeled, cored, and roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp ground ceylon cinnamon
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ tsp ground ginger (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 170°F (77°C). If your oven's lowest setting is 200°F (93°C), set it there and prop the door open slightly with a wooden spoon. Line an 18×13-inch rimmed baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
- 2
Combine the chopped apples, honey, Ceylon cinnamon, lemon juice, and ground ginger (if using) in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are completely soft and beginning to break down, about 12–15 minutes.
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