Freeze drying is a great way to preserve the flavor and texture of your favorite treats like Skittles. If you love the chewy and fruity taste of Skittles, you’ll be pleased to know that freeze drying them can help extend their shelf life while still maintaining their original taste. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of freeze drying Skittles so you can enjoy them for longer periods of time. Read on to learn how to freeze dry Skittles in just a few simple steps.
What You’ll Need:
- Skittles
- Food dehydrator or a freezer
- Plastic ziplock bags or airtight containers
Step 1: Preparing Your Skittles
Before you freeze dry your Skittles, you’ll need to prepare them for the process. Start by separating the colors of the Skittles, as certain colors may have slightly different freezing points. This step is optional but can help to ensure that each Skittle is freeze dried evenly.
Step 2: Freezing Your Skittles
Place the Skittles in a single layer on a baking sheet or tray lined with parchment paper. Make sure the Skittles are not touching each other to prevent them from sticking together during the freezing process. Place the tray of Skittles in the freezer and let them freeze for at least 12 hours, or until they are completely frozen.
Step 3: Using a Food Dehydrator
If you have a food dehydrator, you can use it to freeze dry your Skittles. Place the frozen Skittles on the dehydrator trays in a single layer, making sure they are not touching each other. Turn on the dehydrator and set it to the lowest temperature setting. Let the Skittles freeze dry for 24-48 hours, or until they are completely dry and crunchy.
Step 4: Using a Freezer
If you don’t have a food dehydrator, you can still freeze dry your Skittles using a freezer. Once the Skittles are frozen solid, transfer them to a plastic ziplock bag or an airtight container. Place the bag or container in the freezer and let the Skittles freeze dry for 24-48 hours, or until they are completely dry and crunchy.
Step 5: Storing Your Freeze Dried Skittles
Once your Skittles are freeze dried, transfer them to a clean, airtight container or ziplock bag for storage. Make sure to label the container with the date of freeze drying to keep track of their shelf life. Freeze dried Skittles can be stored at room temperature for up to 6 months, or in the freezer for up to a year.
Benefits of Freeze Drying Skittles
Freeze drying Skittles offers several benefits, including:
- Extended Shelf Life: Freeze dried Skittles can last longer than regular Skittles, making them a great option for long-term storage.
- Retained Flavor and Texture: Freeze drying preserves the original flavor and texture of the Skittles, ensuring that they taste just as good as fresh.
- Convenient Snack Option: Freeze dried Skittles make for a convenient and portable snack that you can enjoy on the go.
- Less Sugar Content: Freeze drying removes some of the moisture from the Skittles, resulting in a slightly reduced sugar content.
Conclusion
Freeze drying Skittles is a simple and effective way to preserve their delicious flavor and texture for longer periods of time. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily freeze dry Skittles at home using a food dehydrator or a freezer. Whether you’re looking to extend the shelf life of your favorite candy or simply want a crunchy twist on a classic treat, freeze drying Skittles is a fun and rewarding process that is well worth trying.
Now that you know how to freeze dry Skittles, give it a try and enjoy the crispy and fruity goodness of freeze dried Skittles whenever you please!
