Easy Candied Orange Peel: Sweet & Simple Treat

If you’ve ever craved a sweet, zesty treat that’s both simple to make and irresistibly delicious, then this Easy Candied Orange Peel recipe is just what you need. Bursting with vibrant citrus flavor and a perfect balance of sweetness, these tender strips are fantastic for snacking, enhancing desserts, or gifting to friends and family. Plus, with just a few straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up a batch of homemade candied orange peel that tastes like a gourmet delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients: Uses just oranges, sugar, and water, making it easy to find everything at home or in your local store.
• Quick process: Candies the orange peel in under an hour, so you’re not waiting all day for a fantastic treat.
• Versatile snack: Perfect for eating alone, adding to baked goods, or decorating cocktails and desserts.
• Great gift idea: Homemade candied peel elegantly packaged makes a charming, thoughtful present.
• Natural and homemade: Free from preservatives or artificial flavors, so you control exactly what goes in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Easy Candied Orange Peel recipe comes from its minimal yet carefully selected ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in delivering perfect sweetness, texture, and that appetizing citrus color.

• Fresh oranges: Choose unwaxed, organic if possible for the best-flavored peel rich in natural oils and color.
• Granulated sugar: Balances the citrus tang and creates the glossy candy coating.
• Water: Essential for boiling and simmering the peels to soften and infuse them with syrup.
• Optional ingredients: A pinch of salt or a splash of vanilla can enhance flavor depth.

Variations for Easy Candied Orange Peel

This recipe is highly adaptable based on what you love, dietary preferences, or what’s in your pantry. Don’t hesitate to tweak it and make it uniquely yours!

• Use other citrus: Try lemons, limes, or grapefruit peels for different zesty twists on your candy.
• Spiced touch: Add cinnamon sticks, star anise, or cloves to the simmering syrup for warm flavor notes.
• Chocolate dip: After candying, dip peels in melted dark or white chocolate for an indulgent finish.
• Reduce sugar: For a less sweet version, cut back the sugar slightly and adjust to taste.
• Vegan glaze: Instead of sugar syrup, you can lightly dust with natural powdered sugar or coconut sugar.

How to Make Easy Candied Orange Peel

Step 1: Prepare the Oranges

Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any dirt or residues, then carefully peel them using a sharp knife, removing just the bright orange skin and avoiding the bitter white pith underneath as much as possible. Slice the orange peel into thin strips about 1/4 inch wide.

Step 2: Boil the Peels

Place the sliced peels in a pot of cold water, bring it to a boil, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Drain and repeat this boiling step 2-3 times to mellow out the bitterness from the pith.

Step 3: Prepare Sugar Syrup

In the same pot, combine equal parts water and granulated sugar (usually 1 cup each) and bring to a gentle boil while stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 4: Simmer the Peels in Syrup

Add the boiled peels to the syrup and cook over low heat for around 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peels become translucent and the syrup thickens.

Step 5: Dry and Finish

Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the peels onto a cooling rack lined with parchment paper, making sure they don’t stick together. Let them dry for a few hours or overnight.

Pro Tips for Making Easy Candied Orange Peel

• Choose the right orange: Navel or Valencia oranges have vibrant flavor and beautiful peel color perfect for candying.
• Avoid the pith: Removing excess white pith reduces bitterness and creates a smoother, sweeter candy.
• Multiple boils help: Blanch the peel multiple times to get rid of excess bitterness before candying.
• Simmer gently: Low and slow cooking helps achieve a perfect soft texture without burning the sugar.
• Dry thoroughly: Properly drying the peels helps develop a glaze and prevents stickiness when storing.

How to Serve Easy Candied Orange Peel

Garnishes

Use candied orange peel as a vibrant garnish on cakes, cupcakes, or even cocktails to add a beautifully bright and sweet citrus pop.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside cheese platters, especially creamy or tangy cheeses, for a delightful contrast that elevates the whole tasting experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Roll the candied peels in extra sugar, drizzle with chocolate, or chop and mix into yogurt, oatmeal, or salad dressings for unexpected bursts of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Easy Candied Orange Peel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks without losing its moist, chewy quality.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the candied peel in tightly sealed bags or containers, and thaw before use to enjoy that fresh homemade taste anytime.

Reheating

Candied orange peel doesn’t require reheating, but warming very slightly in a microwave can make it softer and more pliable if desired.

FAQs

How long does candied orange peel last?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it typically stays fresh and tasty for up to two weeks. For longer preservation, freezing is recommended.

Can I use regular oranges with wax coating?

It’s best to use unwaxed or organic oranges because wax can affect texture and flavor and may not be safe to consume in candied peels.

Is it necessary to boil the peels multiple times?

Yes, boiling the peel multiple times helps remove bitterness from the pith, resulting in a smoother, sweeter candy.

Can I store candied orange peel in the refrigerator?

While refrigeration is possible, storing at room temperature in an airtight container is preferable to maintain the right texture and flavor.

What are some alternative sweeteners for this recipe?

You can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or superfine sugar, but the texture and sweetness may vary slightly; experimenting is encouraged.

Final Thoughts

Whipping up your own Easy Candied Orange Peel is a joyful way to bring homemade goodness, vibrant citrus flavor, and a touch of sweetness into your kitchen. Whether you’re savoring it yourself or sharing it as a thoughtful gift, this simple treat always shines. Give it a try and enjoy the smile it sparks every time!

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