Step 1

Turn on your freeze dryer and select customize. On the next screen, use the up and down arrows to adjust the drying temperature somewhere between 135F-150F (I chose 150F) and save.This will activate the candy/high temperature mode, Select start on next screen.

Step 2

While your freeze dryer goes through the 15 minute cooling cycle, pour Skittles onto your lined freeze dryer trays. Do not overcrowd the trays, otherwise the Skittles will stick together.

Step 3

When the cooling cycle is complete, load trays into your freeze dryer. Close and lock the door, then close the drain valve. Select continue, then touch the red slider bar to turn on candy mode. Notice the button will go from red to green. Click continue.

Step 4

Next, you'll be given the option to warm trays. You can choose skip or start. I choose to skip this step, see why in pro tip below.

Step 5

The next screen will show you the default drying time of 2 hours. This time can be adjusted up or down but I recommend 2 hours. Each tap brings the temperature down by 30 minutes so tap gently! When the time is up, you will be notified that the process is process complete. You can defrost or start another batch.

Step 6

When the time is up, open the drain valve, then open the door and remove the trays. The Skittles outer shell should have popped, expanding the center. If needed, select extra drying time.

Step 7

Add cooled freeze dried Skittles to mylar bags or mason jars and toss in an oxygen absorber before sealing. For longer storage, store in mylar bags and keep in a cool, dark location.