🍓 Homemade Kool-Aid Fruit Roll-Ups 🍇
Ingredients
1 cup water
1 packet unsweetened Kool-Aid drink mix (choose your favorite flavor)
1 cup apple juice or white grape juice
1 cup mashed ripe strawberries, peaches, or any fruit of your choice (optional for added texture and nutrition)
Instructions
Prepare the Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the water and Kool-Aid drink mix. Stir until the powder is completely dissolved. Add the apple juice (or white grape juice) and stir again to blend thoroughly. If using fresh fruit, mash it well and mix it into the liquid for extra flavor and thickness.
Cook Down the Liquid: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to reduce the liquid by half, creating a thicker, syrup-like consistency. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your fruit roll-ups.
Cool and Spread: Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the mixture evenly across the surface using a spatula. Aim for a thin, uniform layer—about 1/8 inch thick—for easier rolling later.
Dry and Cut: Preheat your oven to its lowest setting (usually around 140°F or 60°C). Place the baking sheet in the oven and let the mixture dry for 2–3 hours, or until it feels firm but not sticky to the touch. Alternatively, you can leave it out at room temperature for several hours if you prefer a slower drying process. Once dried, carefully peel the fruit roll-up off the parchment paper and cut it into strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
Roll and Store: Roll up each strip tightly and store them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bags. They’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks when kept in a cool, dry place.