How to use dried fruit in your home this Christmas

 by Holly Sammons

Traditional dried fruit decorations herald the arrival of Christmas crafts! Easy to tie on to a garland or wreath, dried fruits work equally well in your favourite bowls to bring a simplicity and festive scent to your home at Christmas.

The perfect activity to embrace the season, not only are these compostable decorations an eco-friendly alternative, but you can also save money in creating them and still welcome a festive feel that will fill your home with Christmas spirit.

How to dry fruit: A DIY guide

• Citrus fruit can be cut into slices about 1-2cm thick slices - smaller fruits can be dried whole.

• Pat dry and place your slices on a metal rack – put them over a baking tray lined with parchment paper to allow the air to circulate around the fruit and prevent them from burning.

• Place them on the lowest heat possible in the oven for around 3 hours, turning them over half way through the drying process.

• Once the fruit is visibly dry, remove from the oven and allow to cool totally.

• Store the dried fruit in an airtight container with a little rice to absorb any moisture for longevity.

How to use dried fruit in your home this Christmas…

• Once your fruit is dry, use string or wire to attach to wreaths, garlands, place settings or as decorations on the tree.

• Display in vessels for festively scented natural arrangements, simply infuse your dried fruit with essential oils for more perfume or add cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, pine cones and rosemary for depth of scent.

• To add further detail and scent to your wrapping, tie dried fruits on to presents with a stick of cinnamon or rosemary and finish with a bow.

• Decorating cakes with dried and seasonal fruits is a decadent finish. Perfect with chocolate cake or traditional fruit, display dried fruits with fresh berries, figs, and extra additions to create a show stopper for all to enjoy this Christmas!