There’s something magical about the aroma of fresh oranges filling the kitchen, especially when they transform into a sweet, sticky, and slightly tangy treat. Candied orange peels are one of those timeless confections that bring joy with every bite. Their bright, citrusy flavor, balanced by a delicate sugar coating, makes them perfect for snacking, gifting, or garnishing desserts.
I first tried making candied orange peels on a quiet weekend afternoon. The process felt almost meditative—peeling the oranges carefully, simmering them gently, and watching them transform into glossy, golden strips. By the end of the day, my kitchen smelled like a citrus orchard, and I had a batch of sweet, slightly chewy treats that disappeared faster than I expected. Making candied orange peels from scratch may take a little time, but the rewards are well worth it. Not only do you get a delicious snack, but you also have a versatile ingredient that can elevate any dessert, from cakes to ice cream.
Recipe Overview
Candied orange peels are a simple yet elegant sweet treat made by boiling orange peels, simmering them in sugar syrup, and then coating them in sugar. They offer a perfect combination of sweet and citrusy flavors with a soft, slightly chewy texture. These homemade treats are ideal for snacking, gifting, or adding a gourmet touch to baked goods.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s how to make candied orange peels from scratch, step by step, with helpful tips for perfect results.
Ingredients
- 4 large organic oranges
- 6 cups water, divided
- 2½ cups white granulated sugar, divided
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Orange Peels
Start by washing the oranges thoroughly to remove any residue or wax, then dry them completely. Slice off the tops and bottoms of each orange to create a flat base. Using a sharp knife, score the peel from top to bottom, dividing each orange into 4 or 5 large sections.
Carefully remove each peel section, leaving some of the pith attached for a slightly softer texture. Cut each section into ¼-inch strips. Set the prepared peels aside.
Pro Tip: Using organic oranges is crucial to avoid bitter residues from pesticides and wax on conventional oranges.
2. Boil the Orange Peels
In a large saucepan, bring 5 cups of water to a rapid boil. Add the orange peels and boil for 15 minutes. This step reduces bitterness and softens the peels. Drain the water and rinse the peels thoroughly under cold water. Shake off excess liquid and set the peels aside.
Tip: Don’t skip this step—boiling ensures the peels are tender and reduces the characteristic bitterness of orange pith.
3. Make the Sugar Syrup
Return the same saucepan to the stove and combine 1 cup water with 2 cups sugar over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
Add the boiled orange peels to the sugar syrup and increase the heat to medium-high until the mixture reaches a boil. Immediately reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, for 40-45 minutes. This allows the peels to absorb the syrup and develop a glossy, translucent look.
Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, but be gentle to keep the peels intact.
4. Dry the Candied Peels
Once simmered, remove the peels from heat. Drain them, reserving both the syrup and peels. Transfer the peels to a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet and allow them to dry for 12 hours to overnight. The peels should be mostly dry but still slightly tacky to the touch.
Pro Tip: Drying them on a wire rack helps excess syrup drip off and ensures even drying.
5. Coat the Peels in Sugar
Place the remaining sugar in a large Ziploc bag. Add a few orange peels at a time, seal the bag, and gently shake to coat the peels evenly. Repeat until all peels are sugar-coated.
Tip: Be gentle while shaking to avoid breaking the peels. A uniform sugar coating gives them a beautiful, sparkly appearance and extra sweetness.
6. Serve and Store
Candied orange peels can be enjoyed immediately as a sweet snack or used to garnish desserts like ice cream, cupcakes, or cakes. Store any unused peels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Pro Tip: For extra flair, drizzle melted chocolate over some peels for a decadent treat.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Flavor Variations
- Spiced Orange Peels: Add a pinch of cinnamon, cloves, or star anise to the sugar syrup for a warm, spiced twist.
- Chocolate-Dipped: Once dried, dip one end of each peel in dark or white chocolate for a luxurious touch.
- Citrus Mix: Combine lemon or grapefruit peels with the orange peels for a zesty citrus medley.
2. Texture Tips
- Thinner strips dry faster and become chewier, while thicker strips remain soft and succulent.
- For a sticky candy coating, reduce the sugar slightly or let the syrup reduce longer for more concentrated sweetness.
3. Storage & Presentation
- Store in airtight containers for up to a week, or freeze in small batches for longer shelf life.
- Candied orange peels make beautiful gifts; wrap in clear cellophane and tie with a ribbon for a homemade treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Serving Suggestions
Candied orange peels are versatile and can enhance many dishes:
- Chop and sprinkle over cakes, muffins, or scones.
- Serve alongside chocolate or nut platters for a festive touch.
- Use as a cocktail garnish for a bright citrus flavor.
- Pair with ice cream or yogurt for a sweet, tangy treat.
Candied orange peels are a delightful treat that balance sweet and citrusy flavors with a chewy, tender texture. They are surprisingly easy to make at home, yet feel like an indulgent, gourmet snack. Whether eaten on their own, used as a garnish, or gifted to friends and family, these bright, zesty candies are sure to impress. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can transform everyday oranges into a dazzling, flavorful treat that elevates desserts and snacks alike.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular oranges instead of organic?
You can, but organic is preferred to avoid wax and pesticide residues on the peel.
2. How long do candied orange peels last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they last up to one week.
3. Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes! They can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in airtight containers.
4. Can I use different types of sugar?
White granulated sugar works best for coating and syrup. Brown sugar can be used but will create a darker, richer candy.
5. How do I make them extra fancy?
Dip them in melted chocolate or sprinkle with edible glitter for a festive look.
Learn how to make sweet and tangy Candied Orange Peels at home! Perfect as a snack, dessert garnish, or gift. Easy recipe with simple ingredients.
