Dehydrated Dragon Fruit is a fun and healthy snack that's easy to make. You can use this dried fruit for a snack, a creative food topping, or a cocktail garnish.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Dried dragon fruit is a fun snack or garnish for many dishes and drinks, just like Dehydrated Oranges or Dehydrated Cherries.
- The bright, vibrant colors of dragon fruit make this snack unique.
- There are many uses for dried pitaya including a topping for salads, desserts, and more!
- Dehydrating fruit is a great way to preserve fruit so you can enjoy it year-round.
If you are looking for more recipes for dried foods, check out my 22 Dehydrator Recipes for a list of dried fruits, vegetables, and more!
What is Dragon Fruit?
Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is a tropical fruit from the cactus family that is native to Central America and can be white, red, or yellow. It is now cultivated in various regions, including Southeast Asia and parts of the United States like Hawaii.
Dragon fruit is generally in season from late spring to early fall, with peak availability in the U.S. from June to September. In countries like Vietnam and Thailand, it can be harvested year-round, especially from June to November.
What Does Dragon Fruit Taste Like?
Dragon fruit is juicy with a mild sweet flavor, often described as a blend of kiwi and pear. Its seeds add a hint of nuttiness but its color is where all the excitement is.
Is Dragon Fruit Healthy?
Dragon fruit supports weight management, aids digestion, and promotes gut health with its high fiber and prebiotics. Rich in antioxidants like flavonoids and betacyanin, it helps protect against oxidative damage, cancer, and aging. It may also help lower blood sugar and boost immunity with its vitamin C, while enhancing skin health and iron absorption.
How to Make Dehydrated Pitaya
Step 1: Wash the dragonfruit and remove the tough layer of skin from it.
Step 2: Slice the fruit using a mandoline or sharp knife.
Step 3: Ensure the slices are similarly sliced for even drying.
Step 4: Place the slices on the tray of a dehydrator.
Step 5: Dehydrate the dragon fruit at 135°F (58°C) for 6-12 hours.
Step 6: Store the dried fruit in an airtight container once completely cool.
Expert Tips
- For best results use ripe fruit. Choose dragon fruit with bright-colored skin that is slightly soft when pressed.
- Flip the fruit halfway through the drying process for even drying on both sides.
- Pre-treat the fruit if desired. You can pretreat the fruit with lemon juice and water to preserve the color of the fruit (1 tablespoon of lemon juice to 1 cup of water).
- Check periodically. Check the pitaya periodically throughout the drying process to prevent overdrying. It's done when it feels leathery and pliable with no moisture left.
Recipe FAQs
It's up to you and also depends on what you are going to do with the finished product. Cut the pieces between ⅛" and 1/16" for the best results. The thicker the cut, the longer it will take to dehydrate.
I tried both. The 1/16" slices were more translucent and crispy whereas the ⅛" slices were a little more rubbery and the edges wrinkled more.
Yes, you can dehydrate any type of dragon fruit which can be pink (or red), yellow, or white. Any variety will give you a sweet, chewy snack once dehydrated.
Dried pitaya is great for a healthy snack or garnish. Try it on a salad, on top of a dessert, or use it to garnish a drink. 
Dried dragon fruit can last for 6 to 12 months when stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry, and dark place. If stored in the refrigerator or freezer, it can last even longer, around 12-18 months.
No, the drink at the favorite coffee shop has freeze dried dragon fruit in it, not dehydrated. There is a slight difference, but you could use this recipe as a replacement if desired.
If you get a chance to make this Dehydrated Dragon Fruit recipe tag me on Instagram or Facebook and show me, or leave a review below! You can also follow me on Pinterest and sign up for my e-mail list to receive more fun and delicious recipes in your inbox.
Dehydrated Dragon Fruit
Equipment
- mandoline (or sharp knife)
- air-tight container (for storage)
Ingredients
- 1 ripe dragon fruit
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (if desired, see notes)
Instructions
- Rinse the dragon fruit thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Carefully remove the tough outer skin of the dragon fruit using a knife.
- Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, slice the dragon fruit into thin, even slices for uniform drying. Place the slices on the dehydrator trays, making sure they are spaced evenly and not overlapping.
- Dehydrate the dragon fruit at 135°F (58°C) for 6-12 hours, depending on the thickness of the slices and desired texture. The fruit is ready when it feels leathery and pliable, with no moisture inside.
- Allow the dried dragon fruit to cool completely before storing. Once cooled, store the dried fruit in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- For best results use ripe fruit. Choose dragon fruit with bright-colored skin that is slightly soft when pressed.
- Flip the fruit halfway through the drying process for even drying on both sides.
- Pre-treat the fruit if desired. You can pretreat the fruit with lemon juice and water to preserve the color of the fruit (1 tablespoon of lemon juice to 1 cup of water).
- Check periodically. Check the pitaya periodically throughout the drying process to prevent overdrying. It's done when it feels leathery and pliable with no moisture left.
Nutrition
Any nutrition calculations are only estimates using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.
Lily says
These were the talk of my cocktail party!