Making your own raisins is easy and fun summer activity that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Raisins are formed with the water in grapes evaporates, leaving behind the shriveled fruit and all the delicious, natural sugar. All you need for healthy homemade raisins is a bunch of fresh grapes, a sunny day, and a bit of patience.
To make raisins, start with a bunch of fresh, rinsed grapes. Line a baking sheet with paper towel and place the grapes in a single layer on the towels. Cover the grapes with a fine screen to protect them from any flies or bugs, and then lay the tray in full sun. It may be a good idea to bring the tray back into the house at night to prevent wild animals from sneaking a snack, and returning the tray back into the sun’s rays the next morning.
If you are lucky enough to have a string of sunny days, this process should take between 4 – 6 days. Enjoy your sweet treat plain, or consider adding them to one of my two favorite recipes: Broccoli Salad or Cinnamon Swirl Raisin Bread.
Photo Source: Dottie May
