Easy Candied Orange Peel

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.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes less than an hour from start to finish, making it a great last-minute treat.
• Versatile Uses: Use candied orange peel for snacking, as a dessert garnish, or in baking recipes.
• Natural Ingredients: With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy a guilt-free candy.
• Customizable Flavor: Add spices like cinnamon or star anise for a unique twist that suits your taste.
• Perfect for Gifting: These beautifully candied peels make an excellent homemade gift for friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your Easy Candied Orange Peel turns out perfectly, gather the right tools before you begin. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Pot
• Cooling rack
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes peeling the oranges easier and helps create even strips.
• Pot: A good-sized pot is essential for boiling the orange peels without overcrowding them.
• Cooling rack: This allows air to circulate around the candied peels as they dry, preventing sticking.

Ingredients

For the Candied Orange Peel

• 4 fresh unwaxed oranges (preferably organic, navel or Valencia)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Spices such as 1 cinnamon stick, 2 star anise, or 3 cloves (optional for spiced touch)

For Glazing (Optional)

• Powdered sugar or coconut sugar for vegan glaze alternative
• Dark or white chocolate (for dipping, optional)

How to Make Easy Candied Orange Peel

Step 1: Prepare the Oranges

1. Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any dirt or residues.
2. Carefully peel using a sharp knife, removing only the bright orange skin while avoiding the white pith as much as possible.
3. Slice the peel into thin strips about 1/4 inch wide.

Step 2: Boil the Peels

1. Place the sliced peels into a pot of cold water.
2. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Drain and repeat this boiling and draining process 2-3 times to reduce bitterness from the pith.

Step 3: Make the Sugar Syrup

1. In the same pot, combine 1 cup water and 1 cup granulated sugar.
2. Bring to a gentle boil while stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Optionally add a pinch of salt, vanilla extract, or spices for enhanced flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Peels in Syrup

1. Add the boiled peels to the sugar syrup.
2. Cook over low heat for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally until the peels become translucent and the syrup thickens to a glossy consistency.

Step 5: Drying the Peels

1. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the peels onto a cooling rack lined with parchment paper, spacing them so they don’t stick.
2. Allow to dry for a few hours or overnight until slightly tacky but not wet.
3. Optionally roll in sugar or dip in melted chocolate once dry.

How to Serve Easy Candied Orange Peel

Easy Candied Orange Peel is a versatile treat that can enhance various dishes or be enjoyed on its own. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your enjoyment of this delightful candy.

As a Snack

• Enjoy them straight from the cooling rack for a sweet and tangy treat.
• Pair with nuts for a satisfying mix of crunchy and chewy textures.

In Desserts

• Use candied orange peels to decorate cakes or cupcakes, adding a pop of color and flavor.
• Incorporate into cookies or brownies for a unique citrus twist.

In Breakfast Dishes

• Top your yogurt or oatmeal with chopped candied orange peels for added sweetness and zest.
• Add to pancakes or waffles as a delicious topping along with maple syrup.

In Beverages

• Use as a garnish for cocktails or mocktails, imparting a refreshing citrus note.
• Add to hot tea for an aromatic infusion that brightens the flavor profile.

As Gifts

• Package in decorative jars tied with ribbon for homemade gifts that friends and family will love.
• Include in gift baskets alongside other homemade treats for a personal touch.

How to Perfect Easy Candied Orange Peel

To achieve the best results when making Easy Candied Orange Peel, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure your candy turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose Fresh Oranges: Select unwaxed, organic oranges for the best flavor and quality. Fresh oranges yield better taste and texture.
• Avoid Excess Pith: When peeling, minimize the white pith as it adds bitterness. Focus on only removing the outer skin.
• Boil Multiple Times: Boiling the peels several times helps remove bitterness. Repeat until you find your desired taste balance.
• Control Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time in the sugar syrup. Overcooking can lead to overly hard peels; aim for translucent texture.
• Dry Thoroughly: Allow enough drying time after cooking. Proper drying prevents stickiness and enhances texture when rolled in sugar or dipped in chocolate.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add spices like cinnamon or star anise during cooking for a unique twist on classic candied orange peel.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Candied Orange Peel

Pairing side dishes with Easy Candied Orange Peel can complement its sweet and citrusy flavor. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cheese Platter: Combine assorted cheeses with candied orange peel for a sweet and savory contrast. Soft cheeses like goat cheese work well.
2. Mixed Green Salad: Toss greens with vinaigrette, nuts, and chopped candied orange peel for added texture and flavor bursts.
3. Rice Pilaf: Serve seasoned rice pilaf alongside your candied orange peel as a fragrant base that balances sweetness beautifully.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Melt dark or white chocolate and use candied orange peels as dippers, creating an indulgent dessert experience.
5. Fruit Salad: Enhance a fresh fruit salad by adding small pieces of candied orange peel, combining flavors for extra zest.
6. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats make an excellent pairing; their sweetness complements the citrus notes of the candied peels.
7. Granola Bars: Mix into homemade granola bars as an ingredient, providing natural sweetness alongside oats and nuts.
8. Savory Tarts: Create tarts filled with cream cheese or ricotta and top them off with chopped candied orange peel for an elegant appetizer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Candied Orange Peel can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Incorrectly peeling the oranges: Ensure you only remove the orange part of the peel without much pith. Too much pith adds bitterness to your candied peels.
• Not boiling enough times: Failing to boil the peels multiple times can lead to overly bitter candy. Aim for 2-3 rounds of boiling to achieve the right sweetness.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the candied peels to dry properly is crucial. Skipping this step can make them too sticky and less enjoyable.
• Using too high heat: Cooking the syrup on high heat can cause it to caramelize instead of creating a glossy finish. Always maintain low heat for best results.
• Overcrowding while drying: Placing peels too close together on the drying rack may cause them to stick. Space them out properly for even drying.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Easy Candied Orange Peel in an airtight container.
• They will last for about 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Candied Orange Peel

• For long-term storage, place candied orange peels in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 6 months. Just ensure they are well sealed.

Reheating Easy Candied Orange Peel

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and warm the peels on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use short bursts of 10-15 seconds to gently warm them, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Candied Orange Peel that might help you further.

Can I use other citrus fruits?

Yes, you can experiment with lemons, limes, or grapefruits for different flavors. Adjust sugar according to their natural sweetness.

How do I use Easy Candied Orange Peel?

You can use them as toppings on desserts, mix them into baked goods, or simply enjoy them as a snack!

What if my candied orange peel is too bitter?

If your peel turns out bitter, try boiling it an extra time before adding it to the sugar syrup next time.

Can I add flavors or spices?

Absolutely! Adding cinnamon sticks or star anise during cooking enhances flavor and makes your candied peels unique.

Final Thoughts

Making Easy Candied Orange Peel is not only simple but also incredibly versatile! You can use these sweet treats in various ways—from garnishing desserts to enjoying as snacks. Don’t hesitate to customize your recipe by adding spices or dipping them in chocolate for an extra indulgence. Give this recipe a try and discover how delightful homemade candy can be!