One of my applesolute foods to eat while backpacking is apple leather.  For the most part, making these roll-ups of dehydrated fruit is extremely easy.  The process is the same as making applesauce, just add the step of spreading it out onto the food dehydrator trays.  The following is a great recipe I found that is simple to make and will keep you energized throughout the trip.  Also, as mentioned at the end of the recipe, your favorite store bought applesauce will work just as well.

32 Servings

Weight 1 dried serving = 0.5 ounce

1. Wash and cut in half:

   • 5 pounds whole apples, seeds, cores, and stems included

     • Put the apples in a large pot. Cover with:

   • 1 Cup water

2. Bring to a boil; then reduce heat and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes, or until apples are tender.

3. To remove seeds, stems, and skins, strain the apples and juice through a food mill or strainer into a large bowl.

   • Stir in:

   • ¼ cup brown sugar (or sweetener of your choice)

   • ½ teaspoon cinnamon

4. Oil covered dehydrator trays with vegetable oil. Spread the apple leather in even 8-inch-diameter circles on the trays

5. Dehydrate at 145 degrees for 6 hours, or until firm and leathery.

6. Roll up the leather while it is still warm; then cut each roll into 4 peices. Let cool completely before storing in individual serving-sized bags.

Time-saving tip: Purchase commercially made applesauce. Stir in flavoring, such as a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired. Pour 1 cup of applesauce on each covered, oiled dehydrator tray. (1 cup applesauce = one 8-inch-diameter roll).

Pg 64, Backpack Gourmet, Linda Frederick Yaffe