Cherry Maple Jerky
A unique and delightful snack that combines the flavors of cherries, maple syrup, and a hint of smokiness, perfect for a picnic or as a healthy treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cherries, pitted and halved Use frozen cherries if budget-friendly, or fresh for better flavor.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup Adjust quantity based on preference (double for dessert vibes).
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce Low-sodium variety is recommended for healthier option.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds a smoky flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 175°F (80°C) or a dehydrator to the appropriate setting.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cherries, maple syrup, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Spread the cherry mixture evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet or dehydrator tray.
Dehydrating
- Dry in the oven or dehydrator for 6-8 hours, until the cherries are chewy and no moisture remains.
- Allow the jerky to cool before storing it in an airtight container.
Notes
Don’t skip the cooling step — that's when the flavor finishes developing. Check the cherries regularly for doneness; if they are sticky, they need more time, if they are brittle, you overdid it.