Description
Easy Candied Orange Peel is a simple and delightful treat bursting with vibrant citrus flavor and balanced sweetness. Made from just fresh oranges, sugar, and water, these tender, glossy strips are perfect for snacking, decorating desserts or cocktails, and gifting. The recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared in under an hour, delivering a natural, homemade candy free from preservatives and artificial flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 fresh unwaxed oranges (preferably organic, navel or Valencia)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
Optional Ingredients
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Spices such as 1 cinnamon stick, 2 star anise, or 3 cloves (optional for spiced touch)
- Powdered sugar or coconut sugar for vegan glaze alternative
- Dark or white chocolate (for dipping, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oranges: Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any dirt or residues. Carefully peel using a sharp knife, removing only the bright orange skin while avoiding the white pith as much as possible. Slice the peel into thin strips about 1/4 inch wide.
- Boil the Peels: Place the sliced peels into a pot of cold water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes. Drain and repeat this boiling and draining process 2-3 times to reduce bitterness from the pith.
- Prepare Sugar Syrup: In the same pot, combine 1 cup water and 1 cup granulated sugar. Bring to a gentle boil while stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Optionally add a pinch of salt, vanilla extract, or spices for enhanced flavor.
- Simmer the Peels in Syrup: Add the boiled peels to the sugar syrup. Cook over low heat for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peels become translucent and the syrup thickens to a glossy consistency.
- Dry and Finish: Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the peels onto a cooling rack lined with parchment paper, spacing them so they don’t stick. Allow to dry for a few hours or overnight until slightly tacky but not wet. Optionally, roll in sugar or dip in melted chocolate once dry.
Notes
- Choose unwaxed, organic navel or Valencia oranges for best flavor and color.
- Remove as much white pith as possible to reduce bitterness.
- Boil the peels multiple times to mellow the taste.
- Simmer the peels gently over low heat to avoid burning sugar.
- Dry peels thoroughly to develop a sweet glaze and prevent sticking.
- Store candied peel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
- Reheat gently in a microwave if you want softer peel before use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Boiling and Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (about 30g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: candied orange peel, citrus candy, homemade candy, orange peel recipe, easy citrus treat, gluten free snack