If you love the combination of sweet and citrusy, candied orange peel is a treat you can’t miss. These little strips of sunshine are chewy, flavorful, and coated with just the right amount of sugar.
Perfect for snacking, baking, or gifting, candied orange peel transforms ordinary oranges into a gourmet delight.
Making them at home may seem fancy, but with the right steps, it’s surprisingly simple.
Candied Orange Peel
Candied orange peel is the result of simmering orange rinds in sugar syrup until they become soft, translucent, and lusciously sweet.
The natural bitterness of the peel is mellowed, leaving a subtle tang that complements desserts, chocolate, or even cocktails.
In addition to being a sweet treat, candied orange peel is versatile—it can garnish cakes, muffins, or ice cream, or be enjoyed on its own as a sophisticated snack.
The key is in the slow simmering, which ensures the peels absorb the syrup fully without becoming overly sticky or bitter.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for a batch of candied orange peel:
- 3 large oranges – preferably organic, since you’ll use the peel.
- 1 ½ cups sugar – for syrup and coating.
- 1 cup water – to make the sugar syrup.
- Extra sugar for coating – about ½ cup.
- Optional: ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – adds a subtle warm aroma.
- Optional: ½ cup dark chocolate for dipping – to elevate your peels into a gourmet treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Orange Peels
Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove wax or residues. Using a sharp knife, peel the oranges carefully, keeping the white pith attached.
Slice the peel into thin, even strips about ¼ inch wide.
Remove excess pith if you want less bitterness, but leaving a little adds a traditional tang.
Step 2: Blanch the Peels
Place the orange peel strips in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes. Drain and repeat this process two more times.
Blanching removes the bitterness from the pith and prepares the peel for candying.
Step 3: Make the Sugar Syrup
In a saucepan, combine 1 ½ cups of sugar and 1 cup of water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
Add the blanched orange peels to the syrup and simmer gently for 45–60 minutes until the peels turn translucent and absorb the syrup. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Dry and Coat the Peels
Using a slotted spoon, remove the peels from the syrup and place them on a wire rack to dry for several hours or overnight.
Once slightly tacky but not wet, roll the peels in extra sugar to coat.
For a gourmet twist, dip them in melted dark chocolate and allow them to set on parchment paper.
Tips for Perfect Candied Orange Peel
1. Patience is Key:
Slow simmering ensures that the peels absorb the sugar without turning bitter or mushy. Rushing this step will compromise texture and flavor.
2. Keep it Dry:
After simmering, allow peels to dry properly before sugar coating or chocolate dipping. Moisture will make the sugar stick unevenly.
3. Experiment with Flavors:
Add a cinnamon stick, star anise, or a splash of orange liqueur to the sugar syrup for extra aromatic depth. These subtle variations make homemade candied peels unique.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Candied Orange Peel
- Baking Delight: Chop and fold into cookies, muffins, or cakes for bursts of citrusy sweetness.
- Chocolate-Covered Treats: Dip peels in dark or milk chocolate for an elegant snack or gift.
- Cocktail Garnish: Use as a decorative and flavorful twist in cocktails, sparkling water, or tea.
- Gift in Jars: Pack homemade candied orange peel in decorative jars for friends and family—it’s a thoughtful, gourmet gift.
Conclusion
Candied orange peel is a simple yet luxurious treat that transforms ordinary oranges into a gourmet delight.
With patience and a few ingredients, you can create sweet, zesty strips that are perfect for baking, snacking, or gifting.
Once you try homemade candied orange peel, store-bought versions will feel dull in comparison—its rich flavor, perfect chew, and homemade charm are simply unmatched.