How to Make Raisins

Raisins are among the most popular dried fruits, and they make a delicious and nutritious snack. What you may not know is that you can make your own raisins right at home. Plenty of heat is required to dry the grapes, so it's best to try this project in the summer.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• 4 to 5 lbs seedless grapes
• Cookie sheet or plate
• Cheesecloth
• Container with lid

1. Rinse thoroughly 4 to 5 lbs of red, purple or green seedless grapes. Add a small amount of vinegar or lemon juice to the water to preserve the color and flavor of the fruit. Pat the grapes dry with a paper towel and remove the grapes from the stems.

2. Spread the grapes out evenly on a large plate or a cookie sheet. Place a cheesecloth or a clean, unused pillow case over the grapes. Covering the grapes will keep them free of dust or insects.

3. Place the grapes in an area outside where there is direct sunlight. For best results, put them out in hot, humid temperatures of 85 degrees F or higher. Wait three or four days for the grapes to shrink.

4. Sample some raisins to see how they taste. Drying out the raisins may take longer depending on how you like them. When you're ready, store the homemade raisins in an airtight plastic container and cover them with a lid. Once the raisins are formed, they are ready for snacking. Add them to your favorite salads or use them in muffins, cookies or bread.

Tips & Warnings

• Leave the grapes in sunlight for no more than one week. They will continue to dehydrate the longer you leave them outside.

• Use a food dehydrator to make raisins if time is an issue. Follow Step 1, then place the grapes on trays within the food dehydrator for a few hours.