There’s something magical about homemade sweets, especially when they come from fresh fruit. Candied treats not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring a touch of elegance and flavor to desserts and snacks. Candied Orange Peels are a perfect example—a simple, natural treat that bursts with bright citrus flavor, sweet with just the right hint of bitterness from the peel.
I first discovered candied orange peels while helping my grandmother prepare holiday desserts. She would carefully slice, boil, and sugar-coat each piece, filling the kitchen with a warm, citrusy aroma that instantly lifted my spirits. That memory inspired me to recreate the recipe, perfecting the balance between sweet and slightly tart, chewy and delicate. Today, candied orange peels are more than just a holiday treat—they’re a year-round snack, a topping for cakes and ice cream, or a flavorful addition to cocktails and baked goods.
Making them at home may seem intricate, but with a little patience and a few simple ingredients, you can create your own batch of this bright, zesty delight.
Recipe Overview
Candied Orange Peels are thin strips of orange peel that are boiled, simmered in sugar syrup, and coated with granulated sugar. They are sweet, tangy, chewy, and full of aromatic orange flavor. Perfect as a snack, a dessert garnish, or a homemade gift, these candied peels are a natural way to transform ordinary oranges into a gourmet treat.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s everything you need to make delicious candied orange peels, along with helpful tips to ensure perfect results.
Ingredients
- 4 large organic oranges
- 6 cups water, divided
- 2½ cups white granulated sugar, divided
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Oranges
Wash the oranges thoroughly and dry them completely. Cut off the tops and bottoms of each orange. Using a sharp knife, score the orange peel from top to bottom into 4 or 5 large sections.
Carefully remove each section, keeping a little pith attached, and slice each into ¼-inch wide strips. Set aside.
Tip: Using organic oranges ensures the peels are free from wax or pesticides, making them safer and tastier for candying.
2. Boil the Peels
In a large saucepan, bring 5 cups of water to a rapid boil. Add the orange peels and return to a boil for 15 minutes. Drain the peels and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess bitterness. Shake off any excess water and set aside.
Pro Tip: Boiling the peels helps remove some of the bitter compounds from the pith while softening them for candying.
3. Make the Sugar Syrup
In the same saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 2 cups of sugar. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves.
Add the pre-boiled orange peels and increase the heat to medium-high until it reaches a boil. Immediately reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 40–45 minutes, allowing the peels to absorb the syrup and become tender and translucent.
4. Dry the Peels
Remove the pan from the heat and drain the peels, reserving the orange-flavored syrup for later use—it’s perfect for cocktails, drizzle over desserts, or sweetening tea.
Transfer the peels to a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet and let them dry for 12 hours to overnight. The peels should be mostly dry but still slightly tacky.
Pro Tip: Patience is key—drying the peels properly ensures the sugar coating sticks and prevents them from becoming overly sticky or soggy.
5. Coat the Peels in Sugar
Once the peels are tacky, pour the remaining sugar into a large Ziploc bag. Add the peels a few at a time, seal the bag, and gently shake until the peels are evenly coated. Repeat with the remaining peels until all are sugar-coated.
6. Serve and Store
Serve your candied orange peels immediately as a snack, or use them to garnish ice cream, cupcakes, cakes, or other desserts.
Store any unused peels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Tip: The reserved orange syrup can also be drizzled over pancakes, waffles, or yogurt for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Add Extra Flavor
- Toss a pinch of cinnamon or ginger into the sugar for a warm spice twist.
- Add vanilla extract or a splash of liqueur (like Grand Marnier) to the syrup for a gourmet touch.
2. Make It Healthier
- Reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet snack.
- Use raw or coconut sugar for a more natural option.
3. Chocolate-Dipped Peels
Once the candied peels are fully dried and sugar-coated, dip them in dark or milk chocolate and allow them to set on parchment paper. This creates an elegant and indulgent treat.
4. Gift Idea
Package your candied orange peels in small jars or cellophane bags for homemade gifts. They’re festive, thoughtful, and show off your culinary creativity.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Keep candied orange peels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for 2–3 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Ideas
- Snack on them as a sweet, citrusy treat.
- Chop and sprinkle over cakes, tarts, or ice cream for a decorative touch.
- Use them as a garnish for cocktails, adding color and natural orange flavor.
Candied orange peels are a simple yet elegant treat that transforms ordinary oranges into something extraordinary. Their chewy texture, vibrant flavor, and versatile use make them a perfect snack, dessert garnish, or gift. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can enjoy this bright, zesty delight at home anytime. Whether for yourself, your family, or as a thoughtful homemade gift, these sweet citrus strips are sure to impress.
Indulge in the natural sweetness of oranges and elevate your desserts, snacks, or holiday treats with this timeless recipe.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular non-organic oranges?
Yes, but be sure to wash and scrub them thoroughly to remove waxes or pesticides.
2. How long do candied orange peels last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they last up to one week. Refrigeration extends their shelf life to 2–3 weeks.
3. Can I skip the sugar coating?
Yes, but the sugar adds a sweet crunch and helps preserve the peels. You could also dust them lightly with powdered sugar instead.
4. What can I do with the leftover syrup?
Use it to sweeten tea, drizzle over pancakes, or add flavor to cocktails and desserts.
5. Can I make chocolate-covered candied peels?
Absolutely! Dip the dried peels in chocolate and let them set on parchment paper for an extra indulgent treat.
Learn how to make homemade Candied Orange Peels—sweet, tangy, and chewy. Perfect as a snack, dessert garnish, or holiday gift with simple steps and natural flavor.
