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Simple Candied Orange Peel Recipe

Close-up of bright orange candied orange peel strips generously coated in sparkling sugar, resting on a wire cooling rack.
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Learn how to make homemade citrus candy from orange rinds. This method transforms peels into glassy, sugar-coated confections perfect for snacking or as a cocktail garnish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large oranges
  • 4 cups water, divided
  • 3 cups granulated sugar, divided
  • 1 cup water (for syrup)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oranges: Wash the oranges well. Use a sharp knife to cut the peel into strips about 1/4 inch wide. Avoid cutting too deeply into the white pith.
  2. Blanch the peels: Place the orange strips in a medium saucepan and cover with 4 cups of cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, drain immediately. Repeat this boiling and draining process two more times (three times total) to reduce bitterness.
  3. Simmer: Return the blanched peels to the saucepan. Add 1 cup of fresh water and 1 cup of sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Cook gently for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peels become translucent.
  4. Drain: Remove the peels from the syrup using a slotted spoon and set them on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. Let them drain for at least 1 hour. Reserve the remaining syrup for later use if desired.
  5. Sugar coat: In a shallow dish, spread out the remaining 2 cups of granulated sugar. Roll the drained, sticky orange peels in the sugar until they are completely coated.
  6. Dry: Place the sugar-coated orange peel strips back onto the wire rack. Let them dry at room temperature for 12 to 24 hours until the sugar coating is dry and firm. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

  • You can use the leftover syrup as a simple syrup for cocktails or to sweeten tea.
  • For a more intense flavor, use organic oranges.
  • These dried citrus slices make excellent homemade citrus candy gifts.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://dishicious.com/candied-orange-peel-easy-recipe-garnish/