Can a Food Dehydrator Freeze-Dry Candy?

Exploring Sweet Preservation Options

I came across this interesting question: Can a food dehydrator freeze-dry candy? Quick answer: No, not if you're using a regular food dehydrator!

Freeze-dried candy has become quite popular lately. I took a look as to whether this tasty treat can be made at home with equipment you might already have.

While a food dehydrator can remove moisture from candy, it cannot truly freeze-dry candy in the same way as a specialized freeze-dryer can.

Freeze-drying requires very VERY low temperatures and a vacuum environment. Standard home dehydrators cannot provide freeze-drying at all, as they work the opposite way around - with heat!

However, dehydrating candy can create interesting textures that are similar in some ways to freeze-dried candy.

I'll cover the differences between dehydrating and freeze-drying candy, what results you can expect from a food dehydrator, and some tips for getting the best outcomes.

Understanding Freeze Drying versus Dehydrating

Freeze-drying food and dehydrating food are two distinct methods of removing moisture from food. Both processes have unique characteristics that do affect the final product's texture, flavor, and shelf life.

Fundamentals of Freeze-Drying

Freeze drying, also known as lyophilization, is a process that preserves food by removing up to 98% of its water content. The process starts by freezing the food rapidly, then placing it in a vacuum chamber. The frozen water then changes (which is called sublimation) from ice to vapor, bypassing the liquid phase!

This process maintains the food's structure and nutrients. It's ideal for preserving delicate items like candy and freeze-dried candy because it retains its original shape and flavor profile, leaving us with a light, crispy texture. And in that first video above, you'll notice that some of his items are quite puffed up!

A freeze dryer operates at very low temperatures, typically around -30°F (-34°C). This specialized equipment is essential for the sublimation process and isn't easy at all to do at home UNLESS you have a proper freeze dryer like a Harvestright.

How Dehydration Differs from Freeze-Drying

Dehydration is a simpler drying process that uses heat and air circulation to remove moisture. We can use a food dehydrator or even a regular oven to get a freeze-dried texture for candy.

Unlike freeze-drying, dehydration typically removes about 90-95% of the water content. It works well for many foods but can alter texture and flavor more significantly than freeze-drying.

How so?

Dehydrating:

• Heat breaks down cell walls, making food tougher or chewier
• Flavor is also lost during dehydration as it evaporates along with the water!

Freeze drying:

• Cells stay intact because the ice crystals sublimate without melting
• There's no heat exposure really, so less chemical reactions occur and the flavors stay in place!

While both methods are used to preserve food in general, freeze-drying is obviously far superior for creating freeze-dried candy...

However, dehydration is more accessible and affordable for home use for fruits, veggies, meats, and more!

The Science of Freeze-Drying Candy

Freeze-drying candy preserves the sweet treats we love and is used to remove moisture. Doing so creates a lightweight, crunchy version of our favorite candies!

Preserving Texture and Flavor

Freeze drying candy pretty much maintains its original shape and intensifies its flavor. Hard candies become airy and crisp, while gummy bears turn into crunchy, melt-in-your-mouth delights.

This method preserves the candy's structure and concentrates its taste. Sour candies often become even more tangy after freeze drying.

Moisture Removal and Shelf Life

The freeze-drying process can keep treats fresh for months or even years.

When moisture is removed through either dehydration or freeze-drying, bacteria and mold cannot grow, which naturally preserves the candy. As the water is removed, the candy's flavors become concentrated, resulting in a more intense taste.

Properly freeze-dried candy can be stored at room temperature in airtight containers such as Mason jars, or airtight tubs. This is great for long-term storage or as a lightweight snack when backpacking, for instance.

The Process of Freeze-Drying Candy

Freeze-drying candy at home can create unique, crunchy treats. Take note of the prep steps coming up.

Preparation and Pretreatment

Before freeze-drying, prepare the candy properly. Start by choosing fresh, high-quality candies like gummies, caramels, or Skittles. It's important to choose candies that aren't too sticky or oily.

Clean and sort the candies, removing any damaged pieces. Eat those now! LOL.

Next, arrange them in a single layer on the freeze-dryer trays, leaving a tad of space so they don't touch stick to each other. Please follow the manufacturers instructions on how long to freeze-dry your candy.

Equipment and Tools for Freeze Drying

Freeze-drying candy requires specialized equipment to achieve the perfect crunchy texture. See my tips below on selecting the right freeze dryer for you!

Selecting the Right Freeze Dryer

When choosing a freeze dryer for candy, consider the size, its capacity, and all the features it has. Home freeze dryers typically range from small countertop models to larger floor units. Check out my guide here, if you haven't done so already.

Key features to consider:

• Adjustable temperature settings
• Digital display for monitoring progress
• Automatic defrost function
• Vacuum pump quality

You might want to use a tray liner that helps stop sticky or sugary foods from sticking to the trays. Usually the liners are silicone mats or trays sold by the manufacturer. Some people simply use parchment paper as liners.

Alternatives to Professional Freeze Dryers

While dedicated freeze dryers offer the best results, a food dehydrator can mimic some aspects of freeze-drying, though it won't produce identical results.

To use a dehydrator for candy:

1. Freeze candy solid in a regular freezer
2. Transfer to dehydrator trays
3. Set to its lowest temperature setting
4. Run for 24 to 48 hours, checking regularly

This method won't replicate freeze-drying, but it can create a crunchy texture in some candies. Be aware that softer candies may melt or become sticky using this technique.

Honestly? It's not worth trying to replicate the outcome of freeze-drying with a dehydrator. It just doesn't make sense (to me).

Practical Uses and Tips for Freeze-Dried Candy

Freeze-dried candy is ideal for snacking, travel, and storage.

Innovative Snacking Ideas

Think about crushing freeze-dried candy into powders and sprinkle on top of desserts. It adds a burst of flavor and a crackly texture to ice cream, cakes, and cookies!

For a quick energy boost, mix freeze-dried fruit candies into trail mix or granola. The light, crispy pieces blend perfectly with nuts and dried fruits.

Packing for Adventures

Portion freeze-dried candies into small Ziploc bags for easy snacking on the go. They're perfect for long car rides or flights, as they won't melt or get sticky.

For outdoor activities, think about mixing freeze-dried candy with nuts and seeds (as mentioned earlier) to create a custom energy mix. It provides a quick sugar boost during strenuous activities.

Storing Freeze-Dried Sweets

Always store your freeze-dried goodies in airtight containers. This helps keep out the moisture in the air and preserves your candy's unique texture.

Consider using vacuum-sealer bags as they work exceptionally well for long-term storage. They keep out air and moisture, extending the candy's shelf life.

For pantry organization, label your containers that store different types of freeze-dried candies. Add the date too! This makes it easy to see what's what and grab the right treat quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Freeze-drying candy at home raises many questions about the process, equipment, and results. Here, I'll address common questions about freeze-dried sweet treats.

Thanks for spending time reading the oft-asked question "Can a food dehydrator freeze-dry candy?"  Now you know the answer, too.

Use a freeze dryer for best results!

Also, I am watching my sugar intake. So the less freeze-dried - or otherwise - candy there is floating around my home, the better. Just sayin'.

Don't forget to grab your free Six Simple Steps eBook! It’s packed with tips for dehydrating everything from fruits and veggies to dog treats. Get it here.