Candied Orange Slices Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
Find it online: https://mixitwitjoe.com/candied-orange-slices-recipe/
