: Oven-Dried Strawberries: Sweet and Chewy Snack

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200°F (95°C). Low and slow heat is essential to dry the strawberries evenly without burning or caramelizing them too quickly.
2. Prepare Strawberries: Wash the strawberries thoroughly under cold water and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing excess moisture ensures faster and more even drying.
3. Slice Evenly: Remove the stems and slice the strawberries horizontally into thin, uniform slices. Consistent thickness helps the strawberries dry evenly, preventing some pieces from becoming brittle while others remain too moist.
4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Lay the strawberry slices in a single layer without overlapping. Proper spacing allows air to circulate around each piece for uniform drying.
5. Bake Slowly: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 2–3 hours, flipping the slices halfway through the cooking time to ensure even drying. The strawberries should feel dry to the touch but still slightly chewy in the center. Keep a close eye during the last 30 minutes to avoid over-drying.
6. Cool & Store: Remove the strawberries from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer to an airtight container or glass jar. Proper storage will keep them fresh and chewy for several weeks. Optionally, you can store them in the refrigerator to prolong shelf life.
   

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