Homemade Raisins
There’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade raisins made from backyard Concord grapes. Slow-drying them in the oven brings out a deep, natural sweetness you just can’t find in store-bought raisins. These chewy little gems are perfect for tossing into holiday baking, sprinkling on oatmeal, or enjoying straight from the jar. The best part? You know exactly where they came from—your own vines. If you’re looking for a simple way to preserve your grape harvest and capture that old-fashioned flavor, this recipe is a must-try!
Equipment
- 1 baking sheet lined with parchment paper
Ingredients
- 2-3 pounds fresh Concord grapes (or seedless grapes of choice)
Instructions
- Wash and de-stem grapes. Pat dry.
- Preheat oven to 170°F (or lowest setting).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. (See other drying methods for your raisins above.)
- Spread grapes in a single layer.
- Bake 10-12 hours, checking every couple of hours, until wrinkled but chewy.
- Cool and store in airtight container.
Notes
- For a traditional option, you can sun-dry grapes for 3–5 days, though they must be protected from insects with cheesecloth.
- Store in jars or vacuum-sealed bags for months of shelf life.