Begin by setting your freeze dryer to pre-chill for at least 30 minutes.

Next, wash the figs, pat dry, remove the stem and slice as desired. Figs can be cut into halves, quarters, slices or wedges. (Freeze-drying whole figs is possible, but will take much longer than sliced.) Dicing or pureeing is also an option.

Arrange sliced figs on freeze-drying trays in a single layer. Trays can be lined with parchment paper or silicone liners for easier removal and cleanup, if desired.

Once the freeze dryer is pre-chilled, insert your trays inside and shut the door. Set the freeze dryer to run for a full cycle by pressing “continue.” Times will vary, but sliced figs usually take between 30 and 36 hours.

When the cycle has finished, remove a tray and check to see if the figs are adequately dry. They should be firm and crunchy, not bendable. If not fully dry, add more dry time and check back in a few hours.

Once the figs are thoroughly freeze-dried, remove the trays and set the freeze dryer to defrost. 

Immediately pack freeze-dried fruits for storage to prevent moisture reabsorption from the air. For short-term storage, airtight containers like mason jars will work. For long-term storage, sealing in mylar bags with oxygen absorbers is needed.