Craving a sweet, healthy snack that you can make yourself?
Making dried mango at home is easier than you think — way better than store-bought versions.
Let’s level up your snacking game and make it 3x interesting with our DIY dried mango guide.
But…What Are Dried Mangoes?
Dried or dehydrated mangoes are mango slices with all the water removed.
The drying makes them chewy and intensifies their natural sweetness.
Why?
It’s because removing moisture concentrates the sugars.
Besides being tasty, dried mangoes offer:
-
A good source of vitamins
-
Dietary fiber to aid digestion
-
Antioxidants that support health
- A convenient snack for on-the-go
All in all, it’s a tropical treat that’s both healthy and satisfying
How To Select the Best Mangoes for Drying
Choosing the right mango is the first step to great dried mango.
You want mangoes that are ripe but firm.
Why?
Because under-ripe mangoes can taste sour, and overripe ones become mushy when dried.
Look for these signs of ripeness:
-
A slight give when gently squeezed
-
Bright, even color depending on the variety
-
Popular varieties for drying include Ataulfo (creamy and sweet) and Kent (juicy with a balanced acidity)
Picking the right mango sets you up for success.
What You’ll Need to Make Dried Mangoes at Home
It’s good to have everything in one place before you begin
-
A knife and a chopping board
-
A baking tray or dehydrator rack
-
Oven or dehydrator (if not drying in the sun)
-
Lemon juice (optional – helps preserve color)
Preparing Mangoes for Drying
Proper preparation is key to delicious dried mango.
Without overcomplicating stuff, just follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Choose Mangoes
Pick ripe but firm mangoes to avoid mushiness.
The fruit should have a slight give when gently squeezed, but not be too soft.
The balance ensures the mango dries well without becoming sticky or flavorless.
Step 2: Peel and Slice
Peel the mango skin off with a sharp knife or peeler.
Then, cut the mango into even ¼-inch slices for uniform drying.
Consistent thickness means every slice dries evenly, preventing some pieces from drying out too much while others stay moist.
Step 3: Optional Dip
Soak the mango slices briefly in lemon water.
This helps keep the slices bright and adds a tangy flavor.
It also slows browning, keeping your dried mango fresh and appetizing.
Step 4: Drying Methods
You can dry the mangoes with any of the following methods:
-
Sun drying
-
Oven drying
-
Air fryer drying
-
Using a dehydrator
Step 5: Cool and Store
After drying, let the mango slices cool completely to room temperature.
Store them in airtight bags or containers to maintain freshness.
Properly stored dried mango can stay fresh and delicious for months.
Methods to Dry Mango at Home
Each method has its perks and tips. Choose the one that suits you best.
Using a Dehydrator
A dehydrator is the easiest and most reliable way.
Arrange your mango slices in a single layer on the trays, ensuring air can circulate freely.
Set the temperature to 135°F (57°C) and dry for 8 to 12 hours.
Rotate the trays occasionally to ensure even drying.
The result?
Soft, chewy mango slices bursting with flavor.
Oven Drying
The oven is an excellent backup if you don’t have a dehydrator.
Lay your mango slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone mat.
Set your oven to the lowest temperature possible, ideally around 140°F (60°C).
Keep the door slightly ajar to let moisture escape.
Flip the slices every hour or so, and expect around 8 to 10 hours of drying.
Air Fryer Drying
If it has a drying function, an air fryer can double as a dehydrator.
Place the mango slices in the basket in a single layer.
Set the temperature to 135°F (57°C), and dry for 4 to 6 hours.
The basket size limits how many slices you can dry at once.
Sun Drying
For those who prefer a natural approach, sun drying is an option.
Lay the mango slices on a clean rack or tray, cover with a thin cloth to protect from insects, and leave them in direct sunlight for 2 to 4 days.
Flip daily for even drying.
This method depends heavily on weather and patience.
How to Store Dried Mango
Follow these steps to properly store dried mangoes and keep them fresh and tasty for months.
-
First, let the dried mango cool completely to room temperature.
-
Next, pack the slices into airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags.
-
Add desiccant packets if you live in a humid area to absorb moisture.
-
Store containers in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard.
-
For longer storage, consider refrigerating or freezing the dried mango.
This will help maintain flavor and prevent mold or spoilage.
Don’t Have Time to Make Them?
If you don’t have the time (or the patience) to make dried mangoes at home, don’t worry.
That’s why Earthside Farms is here for you.
Our dried mangoes are 100% organic and packed with natural flavors.
There is no added sugar or chemicals, just pure mango love.
We have three amazing variants for you to try:
Citrus Splash Dried Organic Mangoes
Our Citrus Splash Dried Organic Mangoes pack a punch.
The mango slices are soaked in citrusy goodness with a splash of lemon and lime!
Sweet, tangy, and full of zest, they're like sunshine in every bite.
A perfect mood-lifting snack when you need a fruity boost.
Lime Kick Dried Organic Mangoes
If you like a little punch, our Lime Kick Dried Organic Mangoes are perfect for you.
It's a perfect duo of sweet and chili, but not too chili.
It’s bold yet friendly, exciting but not overwhelming.
That gentle heat meets sweetness for a tangy twist that keeps you coming back for more.
It’s warm, welcoming, and totally addictive!
Dried Organic Mangoes
Our Dried Organic Mangoes are a classic treat.
There are no flavors, preservatives, or added sugars — just pure organic mango.
It is sweet, chewy, and perfect for any time of the day.
It is great for those who love the original taste.
Creative Uses for Dried Mango
Why settle for plain when you can add tropical flavor and texture to your meals?
Try these tasty ideas to level up your everyday eats:
| Use Case | Description | Tips & Variations |
|---|---|---|
| Sprinkle over oatmeal or yogurt | Adds natural sweetness and a chewy texture that complements creamy breakfasts | Chop finely for easy mixing; pair with nuts and seeds for crunch |
| Mix into the trail mix | Boosts energy and flavor with chewy fruit pieces combined with nuts and seeds | Add your favorite nuts like almonds, walnuts, or cashews; toss some dark chocolate chips for indulgence. |
| Add to salads | Provides a sweet, chewy contrast to fresh greens, adding depth and color | Combine with spinach, arugula, or kale; drizzle with a citrus vinaigrette |
| Season before drying | Infuse dried mango slices with exciting flavors before drying | Try chili powder for heat, lime juice for zest, or shredded coconut for tropical flair |
Which idea will you try first?
Adding dried mango to your meals is an easy way to enjoy a tropical burst of flavor any time of day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some FAQs about drying mangoes at home:
How do you dry mangoes at home?
You peel, slice, and dry mangoes using a dehydrator, oven, air fryer, or sun drying.
Each method removes moisture, preserving the fruit’s sweetness and texture.
How are dried mangoes made?
Dried mangoes are made by removing water from ripe mango slices through dehydration machines, low-heat ovens, or natural sun drying.
Is it cheaper to dry your own mango?
Drying your own mangoes can save money compared to buying packaged dried mango, especially if you buy fresh mangoes in season.
How to sun dry mangoes at home without a dehydrator?
Place thin mango slices on a clean tray in direct sunlight, cover with a fine mesh or cloth to keep bugs away, and flip daily for 2–4 days until fully dried.
