When I was a kid, I would BEG my mom for fruit rollups. They ranked right up there with Capri Sun for me. Being in a “controlled income” household both were considered ‘special’ treats for our lunch boxes.
What is it about a flat, paper thin “slice” of “fruit”? I loved those sweet sheets of sugary goodness, wrapping them around my index finger and making it last for hours (was I the only one that would eat them this way?) I just wanted them to last longer!
Well, I found away to re-live those childhood memories without all the added sugar and it’s name is fruit leather.
I’ve seen many brands, Trader Joe’s has there own and so does Target. I’ve also seen a few brands like Stretch Island at the supermarket. Normally the grocery store tucks them away in the diet or ethnic food sections. Why? I don’t know. I think a lot more people would chose them over traditional fruit rollups it they saw a comparison.
at the supermarket. Normally the grocery store tucks them away in the diet or ethnic food sections. Why? I don’t know. I think a lot more people would chose them over traditional fruit rollups it they saw a comparison.Hmmm… Comparison. Let’s do that…
Both have similar calories (50), fat (0) and fiber (0-1) but it’s the ingredients that matter this time.
 Stretch Island Strawberry |  General Mills Strawberry Fruit Roll Up |
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Now which would you want to give your kids?
Speaking of kids, these make great snack for the little ones. The toddler has been enjoying fruit leather for quite awhile, especially because it fits nicely in my purse!
roni
I LOVE Target's Archer Farms! Have you seen the new pomegranate? AWESOME!
neptune0909
I love the stretch island fruit leathers. I buy them for my toddler and occasional treats for myself. We like the strawberry, mango, and tropical flavors.
Tara
I was *just* looking up recipes for how to make fruit leather yesterday! Not sure I'm ready to try it w/out a dehydrator. My favorite store bought kind is Target's Archer Farms Fruit Bars (thicker than traditional fruit leather). SOOO Good!!
Randi
Did you know that you can make your own fruit leather? My mom used to do it, using a food dehydrator. But I also heard that you can do it with your oven (but haven't tried). Basically I know you just use applesauce and whatever other mashed fruit you want.