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Sweet Candied Orange Peel

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This candied orange peel recipe transforms what's usually thrown away into a delightful sweet treat. The process is simple but magical - fresh orange peel strips are simmered in a vanilla-scented sugar syrup until they become tender and translucent. The key to success is carefully peeling just the orange part, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. After their sugar bath, the peels get tossed in more sugar for that classic crystallized finish. These bright, sweet strips make beautiful edible gifts, elegant garnishes for desserts, or can be enjoyed on their own as a citrusy candy.
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Updated on Wed, 22 Jan 2025 10:48:40 GMT
Sweet and chewy candied orange peel with a zesty citrus flavor, perfect for snacking or baking. Pin it
Sweet and chewy candied orange peel with a zesty citrus flavor, perfect for snacking or baking. | tasteofcook.com

Transform ordinary orange peels into a luxurious treat with this classic candied orange peel recipe. These glistening, sugar-dusted citrus strips offer the perfect balance of sweetness and subtle bitterness, making them an elegant addition to your confectionery repertoire. Their vibrant orange flavor and crystalline appearance make them equally suitable as a sophisticated snack or a stunning garnish.

I first discovered the magic of candied orange peels while helping my aunt prepare traditional Italian panettone. The way these transformed from simple citrus peels into jewel-like confections fascinated me, and I've been making them ever since.

Essential Ingredients Selection

  • Oranges: Choose organic, unwaxed oranges with thick, unblemished peels - Navel oranges work exceptionally well due to their substantial rind.
  • Granulated Sugar: Use pure cane sugar for the best crystallization and shine.
  • Water: Filtered water ensures clean flavor without any mineral aftertaste.
  • Vanilla Extract: Pure extract adds subtle depth that complements the orange.
  • Salt: A small pinch enhances the natural citrus flavors and balances sweetness.

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preparing Perfect Peels
Wash and dry oranges thoroughly, ensuring any wax coating is removed. Use a sharp vegetable peeler to remove the orange peel in long, even strips, avoiding too much pith. Each strip should show bright orange on one side with minimal white on the other.
Step 2: Creating the Candying Syrup
Combine water, sugar, and salt in a saucepan, stirring until sugar dissolves. Add orange peels, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Simmer gently, watching for peels to turn translucent, signaling they're properly candied. Avoid vigorous boiling.
Step 3: Drying and Crystallizing
Remove peels from syrup using tongs, letting excess syrup drip off. Toss peels in granulated sugar until evenly coated. Place on wire rack to dry completely before storage.
Homemade candied orange peel coated in sugar, a delightful and flavorful treat. Pin it
Homemade candied orange peel coated in sugar, a delightful and flavorful treat. | tasteofcook.com

Last summer, I started keeping a jar of these jewel-like peels in my kitchen at all times. They've become my secret ingredient for elevating simple desserts into something special, and my family now considers them an essential part of our holiday traditions.

Bright and tangy candied orange peel, ideal for garnishes, desserts, or as a sweet snack. Pin it
Bright and tangy candied orange peel, ideal for garnishes, desserts, or as a sweet snack. | tasteofcook.com

Creative Uses and Variations

  • Beyond Simple Garnishes: Chop and fold into pancake batter or granola for unexpected bursts of flavor.
  • Baking Applications: Enhance fruit cakes, sweet breads, or chocolate chip cookies with diced pieces.
  • Flavor Variations: Dust with cinnamon sugar or dip half in dark chocolate for an elegant after-dinner treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why should I avoid the white pith?
The white pith is bitter and will make your candied peels taste unpleasant, even after candying.
→ Can I use other citrus fruits?
Yes, this recipe works great with lemons and limes too. Just follow the same process.
→ How long do candied orange peels last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they'll keep for up to 2 weeks.
→ Why do my peels need to be completely dry?
Fully dried peels prevent moisture from collecting in storage, which could lead to mold.
→ What can I use candied orange peel for?
Use them in baking, as garnishes for desserts, dip in chocolate, or enjoy as a sweet snack.

Easy Candied Orange Peel

Transform orange peels into sweet, bright candied treats with this foolproof recipe that's perfect for holiday baking or homemade gifts.

Prep Time
35 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
55 Minutes


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 4 large navel oranges (or 5 small ones)
02 2 cups water
03 1½ cups granulated sugar, divided
04 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 01

Cut off the tops and bottoms of your oranges. Using a vegetable peeler, carefully peel long 2-4 inch strips from top to bottom, avoiding the white bitter pith underneath. Slice these strips into thin ¼-inch pieces.

Step 02

Put your orange peel strips in a medium saucepot with water, 1 cup of sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium to medium-low heat. Let them simmer for about 20 minutes until soft but still brightly colored.

Step 03

While the peels are simmering, put the remaining ½ cup sugar in a bowl. Set up a drying rack with wax paper or parchment paper underneath.

Step 04

After 20 minutes, stir in the vanilla extract. Turn off the heat and let the peels sit in the warm syrup for 5-10 more minutes to soak up the sweetness.

Step 05

Transfer the peels to your cooling rack and let them rest for at least 15 minutes. Once they're less sticky, toss them in the reserved sugar. Let them dry completely at room temperature before storing.

Notes

  1. This recipe works great with lemon and lime peels too
  2. Store finished candied peels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks

Tools You'll Need

  • Vegetable peeler
  • Medium saucepot
  • Cooling rack
  • Wax paper or parchment paper
  • Tongs

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 71
  • Total Fat: 1 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 18 g
  • Protein: 1 g