In recent years, freeze-dried candy has become a popular treat, known for its crispy, crunchy texture and intense flavors. Unlike traditional candy, freeze-dried versions are lightweight, long-lasting, and packed with concentrated flavor, which makes them a unique snacking experience. The good news is that you don’t need to rely on commercial freeze-dried candy producers anymore — with the right machine, you can make freeze-dried candy at home. Whether you want to create freeze-dried Skittles, gummy bears, or even your own candy creations, there are several machines on the market that can help you achieve this.
Here’s a guide to some of the best machines for making freeze-dried candy yourself.
- Harvest Right Freeze Dryer
Best Overall for Home Use
When it comes to freeze-drying at home, the Harvest Right Freeze Dryer is widely regarded as one of the best machines available. This freeze dryer is ideal for those serious about freeze-drying food and candy, and it delivers excellent results with minimal effort how to make freeze dried candy.
The Harvest Right machine uses a vacuum and low temperature to preserve the structure, flavor, and nutritional content of the candy. It’s a bit of an investment compared to other methods, but the results are well worth it. The machine can handle large batches of candy, making it suitable for those who want to make freeze-dried treats in bulk.
Pros:
- High-quality freeze-drying results
- Large capacity for big batches
- Easy to use and maintain
- Designed for home use
- Can handle various types of candy, including gummies, chocolates, and sugar-based treats
Cons:
- High upfront cost (can range from $2,000 to $3,000)
- Requires significant counter space
- Magic Mill Food Dehydrator
Best for Budget-Friendly Option
If you’re looking for a more affordable machine but still want to experiment with freeze-dried candy, the Magic Mill Food Dehydrator is a great option. While this machine doesn’t technically freeze-dry your candy in the same way a professional freeze dryer does, it uses a dehydrating process that can create a similar crunchy texture.
The Magic Mill dehydrator uses low heat and air circulation to remove moisture from candy, and while it may take a bit longer to reach the desired texture, the results can still be satisfying. It’s also perfect for creating freeze-dried fruit snacks or candies that don’t require as intense of a process as full freeze-drying.
Pros:
- Affordable (typically under $200)
- Easy to use
- Great for smaller batches
- Can handle a variety of candy and fruit
Cons:
- Does not actually freeze-dry, so results may vary
- Takes longer to dry candy compared to a freeze dryer
- Nesco FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator
Best for Smaller Batches
The Nesco FD-75A Snackmaster Pro is another dehydrator-style machine that’s popular among home candy makers. With a reputation for producing great results with fruit snacks, jerky, and even candy, this machine uses a horizontal airflow system that ensures consistent drying across all trays.
While it doesn’t provide true freeze-dried candy, it’s a solid choice for those who don’t want to make a big investment but still want to create crunchy, flavorful candy. The low heat combined with the airflow helps preserve much of the candy’s flavor while giving it a crispy texture.
Pros:
- Affordable (typically priced under $100)
- Simple to use
- Compact design, ideal for small kitchens
- Great for dehydrating candy and other treats
Cons:
- Takes longer than freeze dryers
- Does not produce true freeze-dried texture, but rather a dehydrated version
- STX International Dehydra 1200W Food Dehydrator
Best for High-Volume Production
If you’re planning to make large quantities of freeze-dried candy at home, the STX International Dehydra 1200W Food Dehydrator is a powerful and efficient machine to consider. While it doesn’t offer true freeze-drying, its high power and multiple trays allow for faster dehydration, making it a good option for high-volume candy production.
It’s equipped with a thermostat for precise temperature control and has a built-in fan that helps ensure even drying across all trays. This dehydrator is well-suited for candy makers who want to create unique freeze-dried candy without spending the price tag of a full freeze dryer.
Pros:
- High-capacity, good for large batches
- Adjustable temperature settings
- Large trays for multiple types of candy
- Budget-friendly alternative to freeze-drying
Cons:
- Doesn’t provide a true freeze-dried result
- Can take several hours to dry larger batches of candy
- Excalibur 3926TB Food Dehydrator
Best for Versatility
The Excalibur 3926TB Food Dehydrator is a top choice for anyone looking for versatility in a home dehydrator. Known for its consistent and even drying, this machine comes with 9 trays and can handle a variety of food types, including candy, fruit, and vegetables.
While it doesn’t offer the extreme results of a freeze dryer, it can still be used to create crunchy, dehydrated versions of candy. The Excalibur’s adjustable temperature settings allow you to tailor the process to different types of candy, whether you’re working with gummies, chocolate-covered treats, or sugary candy freeze dried machine.
Pros:
- Large capacity with 9 trays
- Adjustable temperature control for different types of food
- Even drying system with horizontal airflow
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Price point is higher than basic dehydrators
- Doesn’t fully mimic freeze-dried texture
Conclusion
If you’re looking to make true freeze-dried candy at home, the Harvest Right Freeze Dryer is your best bet, offering high-quality results and the capacity to handle large batches of candy. However, if you’re on a budget and don’t mind a slightly different texture, dehydrators like the Magic Mill or Excalibur are excellent options that can still produce delicious, crispy candies.
Ultimately, the choice of machine depends on your budget, how much candy you plan to make, and the level of authenticity you’re seeking in your homemade freeze-dried treats. With the right equipment, you’ll be able to enjoy the magic of freeze-dried candy in your own kitchen, all while experimenting with flavors and textures to create something truly unique