No Nasties DIY Fruit Roll-Ups
No Nasties DIY Fruit Roll-Ups are a simple, nourishing twist on a childhood favourite—made with whole fruit, a touch of blackstrap molasses, and optional prebiotic fibre to gently support gut health, energy, and growing bodies. They’re free from artificial colours, flavours, and refined sugars, making them a beautiful option for both kids and adults who want something fun, fruity, and actually supportive of wellbeing.
These homemade fruit roll-ups are soft, flexible strips of concentrated fruit goodness that you can slice and roll for an easy afternoon snack. Using fresh mango (or your favourite fruit), lemon juice, a small amount of blackstrap molasses and optional prebiotic fibre, they deliver natural sweetness with added minerals and gut-loving support—without any supermarket additives.
Prebiotic Fibre for Happy Guts (optional but powerful)
Adding inulin or PHGG (partially hydrolysed guar gum) is a simple way to turn a fun snack into a gentle gut-supportive one. These fibres act as prebiotics, meaning they provide food for beneficial bacteria in the large intestine, helping support:
Short-chain fatty acid production (like butyrate), which nourishes the gut lining
A more diverse, resilient microbiome
Softer, more regular bowel movements
Because they’re optional, you can tailor the recipe depending on who will be eating it—using a smaller amount to start for sensitive tummies or leaving it out for very young children and adding it for older kids and adults.
Naturopathic Benefits
Blackstrap molasses can be described as the “nutrient-dense” end product of sugar cane processing. Unlike refined sugar, which offers energy but very little in the way of nutrients, blackstrap molasses contains naturally occurring minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium.
In small amounts, it can:
Provide gentle support for energy and iron status, especially when combined with a generally nutrient-rich diet.
Offer minerals that are important for nervous system regulation, muscle relaxation and bone health.
Add a deep, caramel-like sweetness that balances the bright fruit and lemon without relying solely on concentrated sugar.
This doesn’t make blackstrap molasses a “supplement” on its own, but it does mean that when used in place of other sweeteners, it can bring more to the table than just sweetness. In this recipe, it subtly enriches both flavour and nutritional value.
Ingredients
2 mangoes, or fruit of choice, such as berries, peaches, or stone fruit. (I used 1 mango and 1 plum here.)
Juice of 1 small–medium lemon
1 tsp blackstrap molasses
1 tbsp inulin or PHGG prebiotic fibre (optional)
Method
Preheat your oven to a very low temperature (around 60–80°C / 140–175°F), or use a dehydrator if you have one. Line a large baking tray with baking paper or a silicone mat.
Peel and chop the mango, then add to a blender with lemon juice, blackstrap molasses and prebiotic fibre (if using).
Blend until completely smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness or lemon to your liking.
Pour the mixture onto the prepared tray and spread evenly into a thin layer (around 3–4 mm thick), making sure the edges aren’t too thin.
Place in the oven or dehydrator and dry slowly until the surface is no longer sticky and the sheet can peel away easily—this may take several hours depending on thickness and temperature.
Once cooled, peel the fruit leather from the tray, cut into strips, and roll up using a small strip of baking paper to stop them sticking to themselves.
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for several days, or in the fridge for longer.
This recipe is perfect for those who struggle with:
not getting enough fibre
sweet tooth cravings
inflammatory conditions
autoimmune conditions
recovering after one or multiple courses of antibiotics
Or those just looking to boost their nutrient intake and diversify their diet! This recipe is a supportive dietary addition and not a cure for any specific condition. It should be part of a holistic approach that may include other dietary changes, lifestyle modifications and/or medical treatment as recommended by a qualified healthcare professional.
