In the early 1980′s, Fruit Roll-Ups became an instant grocery store hit for both kids and moms. That’s because they were a great source of vitamin C, low in fat, and an easy way to pack a little bit of fun in a lunch box. But these days, processed snacks can be full of all sorts of chemicals, dyes, flavorings, and too many ingredients that are hard to pronounce! Such a simple treat should also have simple, all natural ingredients, right?

Try this four ingredient recipe at home without the added chemical preservatives; plus, you can control the amount of sugar and be as creative as you want. The sweetness of the strawberries, paired with the fresh, almost licorice taste of the basil, makes a unique and amazingly flavorful treat for everyone!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs. fresh or frozen Florida strawberries
• 1 cup fresh basil (about 40 leaves)
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tbsp. lemon juice

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor and purée for 1 minute, until smooth. If you don’t have a food processor, you can finely chop the basil and add everything in a saucepan.
2. Cook for 5-10 minutes, until strawberries are soft; mash until smooth with a potato masher.
3. Bring to boil. Then, reduce heat to medium-low; simmer for 5-10 minutes until mixture becomes a little thicker.
4. Line a 17″x 11″ baking sheet with parchment paper; pour the purée onto it. Spread out evenly with a spatula, leaving a half-inch of parchment paper on all sides.
5. Place in a 170°F oven for 6 hours (or 120°F for 8 to 10 hours) until the purée is shiny and no longer wet and sticky.
6. Once cool, remove from pan with paper intact. Roll tightly; cut into sections with a sharp knife. Serve and watch the smiles!
7. Store in a plastic bag or air-tight container in the pantry for up to 3 months.

Courtesy of Florida Strawberry Growers Association