If you’re looking for a delightful way to elevate your desserts and snacks, look no further than candied orange peel. This sweet treat not only offers a burst of citrus flavor but also transforms what would otherwise be kitchen scraps into something extraordinary. Candied orange peel has a rich history, often used in traditional confections and as a flavor enhancer in various dishes across cultures. The process of candying fruit has its roots in preservation methods, where sugar was used to extend the life of perishable foods, making it a timeless technique cherished by many. In fact, candied fruits have been enjoyed in various forms since the Middle Ages, often found in festive desserts and confections worldwide. Making your own candied orange peel is not just about creating a unique ingredient; it’s also a way to infuse your culinary creations with an aromatic zest that brightens up cakes, cookies, and even savory dishes. This delightful addition can enhance the flavor profile of your favorite recipes, creating an unexpected yet pleasant surprise. Plus, it’s a fun and easy technique that can become a staple in your kitchen, offering a hands-on culinary experience ideal for both novice and experienced cooks! The satisfaction of making this treat at home will undoubtedly inspire you to explore even more candying techniques with different fruits.

Ingredients

To make homemade candied orange peel, gather the following ingredients: You can learn more about this topic.

• 4 large oranges (preferably organic to avoid pesticides, as the skins will be used; organic oranges also tend to have better flavor and aroma)
• 2 cups granulated sugar (use high-quality sugar for the best sweetness; consider using cane sugar for a more natural taste)
• 1 cup water (filtered water is recommended for a cleaner taste; avoid using water with high mineral content as it can alter the flavor)
• Additional sugar for coating (approximately 1 cup, to ensure an even coating on the peels; this step is crucial for achieving that sugary finish)

Note: Choose fresh, firm oranges for the best flavor and texture. Look for oranges that are heavy for their size, which indicates juiciness. The color of the peel should be vibrant and free of blemishes. If you want to try a different citrus, you can substitute with lemons, limes, or even grapefruit, but the process will remain the same. The resulting flavors will vary slightly depending on the citrus chosen, providing a unique twist to the traditional candied orange peel. Check out our related guide for more tips, including storage suggestions and creative uses for your candied peels.

Steps / Instructions

1. Preparation of Orange Peels: Begin by thoroughly washing the oranges under running water to remove any dirt or wax. Use a vegetable peeler to carefully remove the outer layer of the peel, ensuring you avoid the white pith as much as possible, as it can be bitter. This step is crucial because the quality of the peel will affect the final taste of your candied orange peel. A good tip is to peel the oranges in long strips to maintain the integrity of the peel.
2. Cut the Peels: Slice the orange peel into strips, about 1/4 inch wide. This uniformity will help the peels to candy evenly and make for easier use later. If you prefer, you can also cut the peels into different shapes, such as squares or small pieces, to suit your presentation needs. Keep in mind that thinner strips may result in a chewier texture, while thicker pieces may take longer to candy.
3. Blanch the Peels: Place the orange peels in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and let it boil for 10 minutes. This step helps to reduce the bitterness of the pith. After 10 minutes, drain the peels and rinse them under cold water. This process is essential for achieving the sweet flavor of the final product. For an extra step, consider blanching them a second time to further reduce bitterness, if desired.
4. Make the Sugar Syrup: In the same saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 2 cups of sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves, ensuring there are no sugar crystals left. Bring the syrup to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together. The syrup should be clear and slightly thickened, which indicates it’s ready for the next step.
5. Add the Peels: Add the blanched orange peels to the simmering syrup. Allow the mixture to cook over low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. The peels will become translucent and tender as they absorb the syrup. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep a close eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook. The peels are done when they have a glossy appearance and feel soft but firm to the touch.
6. Dry the Peels: Once the peels are done, remove them from the syrup using a fork or slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack. Allow them to dry for 1-2 hours until slightly tacky but not wet. This drying process is key for achieving the perfect texture that balances chewiness and sweetness. Make sure to space them out on the rack to allow air circulation, which helps with the drying.
7. Coat with Sugar: Once the peels have dried, toss them in a bowl with the additional sugar to coat evenly. This not only adds sweetness but also helps to preserve the peels. Make sure every piece is well-coated for the best flavor and appearance. A light shake will help ensure an even coating without clumping.
8. Storing: Store the candied orange peel in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly stored, it can last up to 2 weeks. Be sure to keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture and flavor. If you find them getting too sticky, you can dust them lightly with more sugar before sealing the container.

Tips & Tricks

Here are some essential tips to ensure your candied orange peel turns out perfectly:

• Choosing Oranges: Use organic oranges whenever possible, as the skin is edible and organic fruits are less likely to have harmful pesticides. Always inspect the oranges for any blemishes or soft spots, which can indicate poor quality. Selecting oranges with a vibrant color also guarantees a more flavorful outcome.
• Experiment with Flavors: Consider infusing the sugar syrup with spices like cinnamon or vanilla for added depth of flavor. You could also try incorporating fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique twist! Citrus zest can also be added to the syrup for an extra punch of flavor.
• Storage Tips: For longer preservation, you can freeze the candied peels. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. You may want to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. When ready to use, thaw them at room temperature for the best texture.
• Common Mistakes: Avoid overcooking the peels, as they can become too soft and lose their texture. Keep an eye on them during the simmering process, especially towards the end of cooking, to ensure they retain a slight firmness. Also, ensure the sugar syrup does not caramelize; it should remain clear throughout.
• Using Leftover Syrup: Don’t discard the leftover syrup! It can be used as a sweetener for drinks or drizzled over desserts for an extra citrus kick. The syrup can also be stored in the fridge for later use, adding a burst of flavor to cocktails or teas. You might even consider using this syrup in homemade salad dressings!

Conclusion

Candied orange peel is an incredible way to utilize your citrus fruit fully, turning what could be waste into a delicious, versatile ingredient. Whether you’re looking to enhance your baking projects or create gourmet candy recipes, this homemade treat will surely impress. Not only does it add a unique flavor and delightful texture to your dishes, but it also provides a beautiful, vibrant garnish. Give this easy candied orange peel recipe a try, and enjoy the sweet, zesty taste of citrus candy in your kitchen! The experience of candying your own fruit can elevate your culinary skills and inspire you to experiment with other fruits and flavors, creating delicious and personalized treats.

Print

Candied Orange Peel

Recipe by Ab sef

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dessert Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

− Approximately 4 servings +

⏱️

Prep Time

30 min

🍳

Cook Time

1 hr

🔥

Calories

—

A delightful way to elevate desserts and snacks by transforming orange peels into a sweet treat.

Cook Mode Keep the screen of your device on

Start cooking

Ingredients

US Metric

• 4 large oranges (preferably organic)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• Additional sugar for coating (approximately 1 cup)

Directions

1.

Begin by thoroughly washing the oranges under running water to remove any dirt or wax. Use a vegetable peeler to carefully remove the outer layer of the peel, ensuring you avoid the white pith as much as possible.

2.

Slice the orange peel into strips, about 1/4 inch wide.

3.

Place the orange peels in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and let it boil for 10 minutes. Drain the peels and rinse them under cold water.

4.

In the same saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 2 cups of sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves. Bring the syrup to a gentle simmer.

5.

Add the blanched orange peels to the simmering syrup. Allow the mixture to cook over low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

6.

Once the peels are done, remove them from the syrup using a fork or slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to dry for 1-2 hours.

7.

Once the peels have dried, toss them in a bowl with the additional sugar to coat evenly.

8.

Store the candied orange peel in an airtight container at room temperature.