Easiest Homemade Candied Orange Peel Recipe
The easiest homemade candied orange peel recipe is a simple and rewarding way to turn leftover orange peels into a sweet, aromatic treat. With a perfect balance of citrus bitterness and sugary sweetness, candied orange peel is both elegant and versatile. It can be enjoyed on its own, dipped in chocolate, or used to elevate cakes, cookies, and desserts. This beginner-friendly recipe requires just a few ingredients and delivers beautiful results every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy, budget-friendly, and reduces food waste. It transforms something often discarded into a gourmet-style snack or garnish. The process is straightforward, the ingredients are minimal, and the final result is fragrant, glossy, and delicious.
Ingredients List
- Fresh oranges (thick-skinned varieties work best)
- Granulated sugar
- Water
Time Breakdown
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, cooking takes 45 to 50 minutes, and drying time requires at least 1 hour. Total time is approximately 2 hours, mostly hands-off.
Instructions; How to Make
Begin by washing the oranges thoroughly. Cut the tops and bottoms off, then score the peel into quarters and remove it from the fruit. Slice the peels into thin strips. Place the peels in a saucepan, cover with water, bring to a boil, then drain. Repeat this blanching step two more times to reduce bitterness. In the same saucepan, combine sugar and water and bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add the blanched peels and simmer gently until they become translucent and glossy. Remove the peels and place them on a wire rack or parchment paper to dry. Once dry, toss lightly in sugar if desired.
Variations
You can dip the candied orange peels in melted dark or milk chocolate for an indulgent treat. Adding a cinnamon stick or vanilla bean to the sugar syrup creates a warm, aromatic flavor. This recipe also works well with lemon or grapefruit peels.
Storing Suggestions
Store candied orange peel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, keep it refrigerated for up to one month. Make sure the peels are completely dry before storing to prevent stickiness.
How to Serve Elegantly
Serve candied orange peel arranged neatly in a small dish as a sweet snack or garnish desserts with a few strips for a refined look. They also make beautiful edible gifts when packaged in jars or boxes tied with ribbon.
Chef’s Special Tips
Use organic oranges when possible since the peel is the star of the recipe. Cut the peels evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Simmer gently rather than boiling to avoid crystallization of the syrup.
Conclusion
This easiest homemade candied orange peel recipe proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Sweet, citrusy, and beautifully aromatic, these candied peels are a delightful addition to your kitchen repertoire. Once you try them, you’ll never throw away orange peels again.
FAQs
Do I need to remove the white pith from the orange peel?
No, the pith softens during cooking and adds structure, but you can trim it slightly if it’s very thick.
Why do I need to blanch the peels multiple times?
Blanching removes excess bitterness, resulting in a sweeter and more balanced flavor.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Sugar is essential for proper candying and preservation, so reducing it significantly may affect the texture and shelf life.
Can I use this method for other citrus fruits?
Yes, this method works well for lemons, limes, and grapefruit, though blanching times may vary.
Why are my candied peels sticky?
Sticky peels usually need more drying time. Allow them to air-dry longer before storing.