Candied Orange Slices Recipe

Introduction

Candied orange slices are a delightful treat that combine sweet, tangy flavors with a beautiful translucent appearance. Perfect as a garnish, snack, or dessert embellishment, they add a burst of citrus brightness to any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 large oranges (Navel or Valencia), firm and bright-skinned
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• Optional: additional granulated sugar for coating
• Optional: cinnamon sticks or whole cloves for spiced syrup
• Optional: melted dark or white chocolate for dipping

Instructions

1. Step 1: Wash the oranges thoroughly, then slice them into ⅛ to ¼ inch rounds. Remove any seeds and discard the ends of the oranges.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet or wide saucepan, combine 2 cups sugar and 1 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture becomes a clear syrup.
3. Step 3: Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and carefully place the orange slices in a single layer in the pan. Simmer for 45 to 60 minutes, flipping the slices every 15 minutes until they turn translucent and tender.
4. Step 4: Using tongs, transfer the orange slices to a wire rack set over parchment paper. Allow them to dry at room temperature for 24 hours until tacky but no longer wet.
5. Step 5: Once dry, optionally toss the slices in granulated sugar for extra sparkle or dip them halfway in melted dark or white chocolate. Let chocolate set before storing.
6. Step 6: Store the candied orange slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Use them as decorations, snacks, or cocktail garnishes.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mandoline slicer to create uniform and thin slices for faster candying and a prettier presentation.
• Don’t skip the simmering step—this is essential for making the peels tender and translucent.
• Toss dried slices in sugar or brush with light corn syrup for added shine and sweetness.
• Store slices in single layers separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Add cinnamon sticks or whole cloves to the syrup for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Swap oranges for lemons, blood oranges, or grapefruit to vary the citrus flavor.
• Dip finished slices in melted chocolate for a gourmet candy twist.

Storage

Store candied orange slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If coated in chocolate, keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent melting. Reheat is not necessary; simply enjoy them as-is or use them as decorative garnishes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of citrus for candied slices?

Yes, lemons, blood oranges, and grapefruit work wonderfully as alternatives and add interesting flavor variations.

How thin should the orange slices be?

Slices about ⅛ to ¼ inch thick work best. Thinner slices candy faster and look more delicate, while thicker slices need more simmering time.

Candied Orange Slices Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 51 reviews

Delightfully sweet and tangy candied orange slices that are tender, translucent, and perfect as a garnish or a chewy treat. These citrus slices are simmered in a simple syrup until perfectly candied and then dried to a glorious sugary finish, ideal for topping desserts, cocktail garnishes, or snackable sweets.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 25 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 30–40 candied orange slices depending on orange size 1x
• Category: Dessert Garnish
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Candied Orange Slices

• 2 medium to large oranges (Navel or Valencia), washed
• 2 cups granulated sugar, divided (1 cup for syrup, 1 cup optional for coating)
• 1 cup water

Optional Additions

• 1 cinnamon stick or 3-4 whole cloves (for spiced syrup)
• Melted dark or white chocolate (for dipping)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oranges: Wash the oranges thoroughly and slice them into ⅛ to ¼ inch thick rounds, ideally using a mandoline for uniform thickness. Remove and discard any seeds and the ends of the orange slices to ensure a clean candy.
2. Make the Syrup: In a large skillet or wide saucepan, combine 2 cups of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar completely dissolves and the syrup becomes clear.
3. Simmer the Orange Slices: Reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Place the orange slices carefully in a single layer in the syrup. If desired, add a cinnamon stick or cloves to infuse warm spice notes. Simmer for 45 to 60 minutes, flipping the slices every 15 minutes to ensure even candying, until the slices become tender and translucent.
4. Dry the Slices: Using tongs, transfer each orange slice to a wire rack set over parchment paper. Allow the slices to dry at room temperature for approximately 24 hours until they are tacky but no longer wet.
5. Add Optional Sugar Coating: Once dried, optionally toss the slices in granulated sugar for added sparkle and sweetness. Alternatively, dip them halfway in melted dark or white chocolate for a gourmet finish.
6. Store and Serve: Store the candied orange slices in a single layer between parchment sheets inside an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep well for up to one week. Use them as a stunning garnish on cakes, cupcakes, tarts, holiday cocktails, or enjoy as a chewy, citrusy snack.

Notes

• Using a mandoline slicer ensures uniform thickness and prettier presentation.
• Thinner slices candy faster but handle gently to prevent tearing.
• Don’t skip the long simmer time; it softens the peel and makes the slices translucent.
• Store slices in single layers with parchment between them to prevent sticking.
• Add cinnamon sticks or whole cloves to the syrup for a warming aroma and flavor.
• For extra shine, brush slices with light corn syrup instead of sugar.
• The recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Keywords: Candied oranges, orange slices, citrus candy, dessert garnish, homemade candy, vegan candy, orange peel treat