How to Dehydrate Mango: Easy Steps
for Perfect Dried Fruit

So you want to know how to dehydrate mango? Here you go! 

I'll walk you through how to properly dehydrate mango slices at home for satisfying dried mango pieces that make healthy snacks any time - whether you're at home or backpacking.

sliced mango ready for dehydrating

I'll cover

  • How to pick mangoes that are perfectly ripe (see FAQs below),
  • How to prep mangoes for the dehydrator,
  • How many hours to dehydrate mango
  • Testing doneness for that crispy dried mango texture, and
  • How to best store the dried mango bags while retaining flavor and nutrition.

One of the easiest and cheapest methods of food preservation is dehydration.

It's a fun activity you can share with the kids too (especially the food vacuum-sealing process!) It's fun to watch the air being drawn out!

Mango FAQs: Ripe, Ready, and Dehydrating Made Simple

How do you dehydrate mango in a food dehydrator?

It's easy! Slice ripe mango into ¼-inch pieces, place them in a single layer on your dehydrator trays, and set the temperature between 125°F–135°F. Dry for 10–12 hours, rotating trays as needed for even drying.

How can you tell when a mango is ripe?

Give the mango a gentle squeeze—ripe mangoes feel slightly soft and give off a fruity aroma. Look for skin that's mostly reddish-orange with a few white specks. Avoid green, hard, or scentless mangoes.

What’s the best way to cut a mango for dehydrating?

Slice down along the flat side of the pit to remove the cheeks. Score the flesh in a crisscross pattern without cutting through the skin, then flip the skin inside out and pop out the cubes for easy slicing.

How do you prevent mango from getting stringy?

Choose varieties like Tommy Atkins or Keitt mangoes, which are naturally less fibrous. Also, store ripening mangoes in the fridge to slow fiber development if you're not dehydrating them right away.

What are the nutrition benefits of dehydrated mango?

Dehydrated mango is packed with Vitamin A, Vitamin C, B6, E, and K, plus copper and magnesium. It’s also rich in dietary fiber, making it a sweet, satisfying snack that’s good for your immune system and digestion.

Is dehydrated mango good for you?

Absolutely! While drying does concentrate natural sugars, it preserves most of the vitamins, minerals, and fiber found in fresh mango, making it a smart and energizing snack when eaten in moderation.

Can you dehydrate canned or frozen mango?

Yes! For canned mango, rinse off the syrup and pat dry before dehydrating. For frozen mango, thaw and drain first. Make sure pieces are evenly sized for consistent drying.

How do you store dehydrated mango properly?

After cooling completely, vacuum-seal the dried mango with a 100cc oxygen absorber for long-term storage. If you plan to eat it within a week, an airtight container or Ziploc bag is fine.

How long does dehydrated mango last?

When properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, dehydrated mango can last 6–12 months—or longer! Always check for any signs of moisture or spoilage before snacking.

Can you flavor mango before dehydrating?

Definitely! Lightly dust mango slices with spices like chili powder, Tajín, cinnamon, or even a splash of lime before dehydrating for a fun, flavorful twist.

What temperature should I use to dehydrate mango?

Set your dehydrator between 125°F and 135°F for best results.

How thick should I slice mango for dehydrating?

Slice mango about ¼ inch thick to ensure even drying.

How do I know when the mango is done dehydrating?

Dried mango should feel flexible and leathery, with no visible moisture when torn.

Can I dehydrate overripe mango?

Slightly overripe mango works, but avoid fruit that's mushy or smells fermented.

Mango Nutrition Info.

VITAMINS: Vitamin A (beta carotene hence their orange color!), Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Vitamin E, and Vitamin K.

MINERALS: Copper and Magnesium.

Mangoes are a good source of dietary fiber, too.

People ask me, "Is dehydrated mango good for you?" As you can see above with the number of vitamins and minerals mango contains, well yes - mango is good for you!

cutting a mango
Cutluxe 8
Cutluxe 8" Chef Knife, Full Tang

Begin by Using a Good Sharp Knife by Cutluxe!

Check out this great chef's knife with a full tang that means the handle and blade "are one" so they can't come apart when we're slicin' and a dicin'.

I know these Cutluxe Chef knives may be a little expensive, but they do last pretty much a lifetime when you maintain their cutting edges.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases. The price you pay does not increase.  Read disclosure here.

Don’t Let Mango Go Bad—Dehydrate It First!

For those of us who hate tossing spoiled fresh fruits or vegetables, get busy dehydrating your fresh mango before it goes off! Don't forget that dehydrated apples, bananas, and pineapples are just a few other fruits that are excellent for dehydration.

Be self-sufficient: get those fruits and veggies socked away for that rainy day - and keep your pantry full - whatever the reason or the season!

🥭 Ready to turn that juicy mango into the perfect dried snack? Let’s dive into the easy step-by-step process!

Step-by-Step: How to Dehydrate Mango Like a Pro

Drying mangoes in a food dehydrator is easy:

  1. Slice into 1/4" thick pieces, uniformly sized.
  2. Place the mango on your food dehydrator trays.
  3. Turn on your dehydrator and set the temperature between 125°F and 135°F (or per your food dehydrator's instructions).

💡 Tip: Use our Fahrenheit to Celsius converter here on our site!

  • Drying time: between 10-12 hours.
  • Dehydrated mango will feel flexible with no moisture.
  • Remember to rotate your food dehydrator trays, for even drying.

Arrange your mango slices on your dehydrator trays making sure the pieces don't overlap. We need proper air circulation to make sure they dry at the same time.

If you have big and small pieces on the same tray, the smaller ones will dry faster and will end up being too dry if you wait for the larger pieces to "catch up." Conversely, the larger pieces will be too damp if you go by how dry the smaller pieces are, does that make sense?

Fresh, Frozen, or Canned Mango? Here’s What Works Best

If you're using canned mango, pour the opened canned contents into a sieve over your kitchen sink to let excess juicy syrup drain out. Give the pieces a quick rinse to remove any remaining sugar, and pat them dry.

When using frozen mangoes, all you have to do is let them thaw. Yes, a strainer in the kitchen sink works well. Chop up the mango in evenly-sized pieces, whether it's a fresh, canned, or frozen mango. Having the pieces the same size makes them dry at a uniform rate.

After dehydrating, allow your mango slices to cool before storing them. One step I include is called "conditioning," so please click the link to read more about that step. I do consider conditioning to be an optional step, by the way.

What we don't want to do is store 'slightly warm food' in plastic vacuum-sealer bags because you may end up with condensation inside the bags. That can cause the risk of bacterial mold growing - and that's why we add an oxygen absorber into the vacuum-sealer bag, before drawing out the air.

Pro Tip: Separate Small and Large Mango Pieces

Here's a shoutout to my hubby... As he was reading this page he asked, "Susan, why can't you put small pieces on one tray, and larger pieces on another tray? And when the smaller pieces are done, you just take them off that tray?"

I tried to come back with a cutesy response, but hey, he is right. You can do that and it's a great idea! (Why didn't I think of it? Grr.)

Reminder: Always have your Nesco running/drying with a minimum of four trays.


Preserve Your Dried Mango with 100cc Oxygen Absorbers

When storing dehydrated mango, the oxygen absorber size I use the most is a 100cc size.

100cc Oxygen Absorbers, 100-pk shown

When you're ready to dehydrate your batch of dried mango, open up your oxygen absorber bag and follow my trick on resealing oxygen absorber bags ASAP after opening!

Many people write in to ask if they can just use a Ziploc bag: my answer is - it depends! If you're going to be eating dried mango the day after, then sure, a Ziploc bag is fine. But if your aim is to store your dehydrated mango for long-term storage, then please use a proper vacuum-sealer bag with a 100cc oxygen absorber tucked in it (again, prior to drawing out the air with the food vacuum-sealer machine).

I use a FoodSaver brand food vacuum sealer. I've had mine for years!

A NOTE HERE about DESICCANT PACKETS

Use them in conjunction with Oxygen Absorbers.
Here's How and Why...

Compare Top FoodSaver Models—Find the Right One for You

The FoodSaver machines remove air, one of the main causes of mold and food spoilage - and they create an airtight seal to lock in freshness.

NOTE:
The FoodSaver 4800 Series: An all-in-one vacuum sealing system with built-in handheld sealing for bags and containers. Ideal for families and bulk buyers.

FoodSaver V2244 with Bags+Rolls Starter Kit
FoodSaver V2244 with Bags+Rolls Starter Kit

FoodSaver V2244

Helps keep food fresh longer.

Comes complete with a starter kit that includes an 11" x 10' heat seal roll, (3) quart heat seal bags, (2) gallon heat seal bags, and an accessory hose, so you'll soon be on your way to keeping your food fresh, eliminating waste, and saving money.

FoodSaver 4800 Series
FoodSaver 4800 Series

FoodSaver 4800 Series

The 2-in-1 Automatic Vacuum Sealing System helps keep food fresh longer.

One FoodSaver 2-in-1 appliance does it all: automatic bag detection and vacuum sealing mean two quick and easy steps to seal and save, and the built-in handheld sealer eliminates the need for additional attachments when sealing zipper bags and containers.

FoodSaver GameSaver Rolls, 6-pk
FoodSaver GameSaver Rolls, 6-pk

FoodSaver 8" x 20' rolls, 6-pk

FoodSaver GameSaver 8" x 20' Vacuum Seal Long Roll with BPA-Free Multilayer Construction

  • Keep game and fish fresh up to 5x Longer with FoodSaver GameSaver 8-inch rolls.
  • Create custom-sized bags - simply cut a piece to your desired length, seal one end, fill, and then vacuum seal.
  • 8" x 20' rolls
  • BPA-free
  • Pack of six rolls
FoodSaver Quart Bags, 44-pk
FoodSaver Quart Bags, 44-pk

FoodSaver 1-Quart Food Storage Sealer bags

  • Constructed of durable yet pliable material that creates an airtight barrier around foods, extending freshness and locking in flavors
  • Quickly and easily portion food from bulk shopping or when storing leftovers.
  • BPA-FREE MATERIAL: Safe for storing raw and cooked foods, it's also freezer, refrigerator, microwave, and boil-safe
  • 1-quart size precut bags, 44-count
FoodSaver Pint Bags, 28-pk
FoodSaver Pint Bags, 28-pk

FoodSaver Pint-size Food Storage Sealer bags

  • Constructed of durable yet pliable material that creates an airtight barrier around foods, extending freshness and locking in flavors
  • Quickly and easily portion food from bulk shopping or when storing leftovers.
  • BPA-FREE MATERIAL: Safe for storing raw and cooked foods, it's also freezer, refrigerator, microwave, and boil-safe
  • 1-pint size precut bags, 28-count

As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases. The price you pay does not increase.  Read disclosure here.

Spice Up Your Dried Mango: Flavor Boost Ideas

Did you know, it's quite common to add chili powder and other spices to mango? Think:

  • Mango Salsa
  • Mango Chutney
  • Mango Lassi (flavored with chili powder, and other spices like cardamom, saffron, or cumin).
  • Mangoes with Tajín (a Mexican seasoning mixture of chili peppers, lime, and salt).

How about indulging in chili mango popsicles now you know how to dehydrate mango? Simply blend the rehydrated mangoes with chili powder and lime - it makes a refreshing ice pop with a kick.

Popsicle Mold, 10 Cavities, Silicone, Easy-Release, Red
Popsicle Mold, 10 Cavities, Silicone, Easy-Release, Red

Check out this easy-release 10-Cavity Red Silicone Ice Pop mold from Amazon.com

As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases. The price you pay does not increase.  Read disclosure here.

Mangoes with a sweet and sour mix are favorites in Mexico, India, and South Asian cuisines.

My mom used to love mango chutney! Check out this Indian Mango Chutney recipe. Share your dehydrated mango treats with friends and family, and make dried mango packets for your next hiking trip.

peach, pineapple, and apricots on a table

Mangoes have a flavor all their own - they're a cross between a pineapple, peach, and an apricot. Click on any of those links to see how to dehydrate those fruits specifically.

You can use fresh mango - even canned or frozen mango, too! If you opt for using fresh, make sure it's ripe. Pick one that is firm to the touch but does yield a little from the pressure of your thumb. (See more in the FAQs at the top of this post).

The best way to dehydrate mango is to use an electric dehydrator such as a Nesco or an Excalibur brand:

Excalibur DEHYDRATORS Available on Amazon

💡 Tip: Use our Fahrenheit to Celsius converter here on our site!

Excalibur 2400 4-tray Dehydrator
Excalibur 2400 4-tray Dehydrator

Excalibur 2400 Food Dehydrator, 4-Tray Starter

This is a square-shaped food dehydrator, that boasts 4 square feet of drying space. Black textured plastic body. Remove the front panel for access to its four trays.

  • 220 watts of drying power
  • 4 removable trays
  • 16.25 x 13 x 6.5 inches (LxWxH)
  • Temperature range: 95°F – 165°F
  • Comes with: 4 trays, a digital download guide to dehydration
Excalibur 2900EC Dehydrator
Excalibur 2900EC Dehydrator

Excalibur 2900ECB 9-Tray Electric Food Dehydrator

This is a square-shaped food dehydrator, that boasts 15 square feet of drying space. Black textured plastic body. Remove the front panel for access to its nine trays.

  • 400 watts of drying power
  • 9 removable trays
  • 19 x 17 x 12.5 inches (LxWxH)
  • Temperature range: 105°F – 165°F
  • Comes with: 9 trays, a digital download guide to dehydration
Excalibur 9-Tray Dehydrator
Excalibur 9-Tray Dehydrator

Excalibur 3900B 9-Tray Electric Food Dehydrator

This is a square-shaped food dehydrator, that boasts 15 square feet of drying space. Black textured plastic body. Remove the front panel for access to its 9 trays. Has a built-in on/off switch.

  • 600 watts of drying power
  • 9 removable trays
  • 19 x 17 x 12.5 inches (LxWxH)
  • Temperature range: 105°F – 165°F
  • Comes with: 9 trays, a digital download guide to dehydration

As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases. The price you pay does not increase.  Read disclosure here.

Nesco DEHYDRATORS Available on Amazon

💡 Tip: Use our Fahrenheit to Celsius converter here on our site!

Nesco FD-80A Food + Jerky Dehydrator
Nesco FD-80A Food + Jerky Dehydrator

Nesco FD-80A Food + Jerky Dehydrator

This is a square-shaped food dehydrator, perfect for snacks, fruit, and beef jerky. White with a top black tray edge, with a white lid.

  • 700 watts of drying power
  • Expandable to 8 trays
  • 15.25 x 10.25 x 15.63 inches (LxWxH)
  • Temperature range: 95°F – 160°F
  • Comes with: 1 Clean-A-Screen, 1 Recipe Instruction Book, 1 Jerky Seasoning & Cure Sample
Nesco FD-61WHC Snackmaster Encore
Nesco FD-61WHC Snackmaster Encore

Nesco FD-61WHC Snackmaster Encore Food Dehydrator

This round Nesco Snackmaster comes with a jerky gun kit and 5 trays. It has a very light grey body with a darker grey lid.

  • 500 watts of drying power
  • Expandable to 12 trays
  • 13.5 x 13.5 x 9.25 inches (LxWxH)
  • Temperature range: 95°F – 160°F
  • Comes with: 1 Jerky Gun with 3 tip attachments, 2 Fruit Roll Sheets, 2 Clean-A-Screens, 5 Jerky Seasoning & Cure Samples, Recipe & Instruction book
Nesco FD-60 Snackmaster Express
Nesco FD-60 Snackmaster Express

Nesco FD-60 Snackmaster Express Food Dehydrator

This is the new version of mine as it has an updated lid. It's a light grey body with a darker grey lid.

  • 500 watts of drying power
  • Expandable to 12 trays
  • 13.5 x 13.5 x 9.25 inches (LxWxH)
  • Temperature range: 95°F – 155°F
  • Comes with: 1 Fruit Roll Sheet, 2 Original-Flavor Jerky Spice & Cure Packets

As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases. The price you pay does not increase.  Read disclosure here.

Where the Best Mangoes Grow (and How They Get to You)

The best areas for growing mangoes are:

  • Southern Florida because the coast of Florida down to the Florida Keys enjoys a climate that's ideal for growing mangoes. Miami-Dade County is a mango-growing haven.
  • Southern California because they enjoy micro-climates along the southern Cali coastline, such as San Diego County and parts of Riverside County.
  • Hawaii because they too have an excellent climate for growing mangoes due to their subtropical year-round temperatures.
  • Puerto Rico. This Caribbean island provides warm, humid conditions which are perfect for mango-growing.

So now you know how to dehydrate mango and where they were grown before they arrived at your grocery store or roadside stand!

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