Candied Orange Peel Recipe Easy Homemade Sweet Treat

Imagine transforming humble orange peels – something most people toss without a second thought – into glistening, jewel-like treats that elevate desserts, cocktails, and charcuterie boards. This easy candied orange peel recipe unlocks culinary magic using just three ingredients. Whip up a batch in about an hour (plus drying time), and you’ll have:

• Irresistible bittersweet citrus bites perfect for nibbling

• A gourmet garnish for cakes, ice cream, or champagne

• Thoughtful homemade gifts that outshine store-bought sweets

• Zero-waste cooking that makes citrus season last

Unlike mass-produced versions loaded with preservatives, homemade candied orange peel lets you control the sweetness intensity and texture. Below you’ll find a foolproof method with pro tips for perfect results every time.

Ingredients: Simple Alchemy for Special Treats

• 3 large navel oranges* (preferably organic/unwaxed)

• 2 cups granulated sugar + extra for coating

• 1 cup water

• Optional: 1/4 cup dark chocolate for dipping, 1 tsp vanilla extract, or 1 star anise for infusion

*Pro Tip: Save juice for cocktails or smoothies after removing peels. Grapefruit, lemon, or pomelo peels also work beautifully with the same technique!

Step-by-Step Guide: Candy Citrus Like a Pro

Step 1: Prep the Peels

• Wash oranges thoroughly. Cut off stem ends.

• Score peel vertically into quarters. Remove peels carefully, keeping them intact.

• Slice peels into 1/4-inch strips using a sharp knife.

• Critical Step: Place peels in a saucepan, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Drain immediately. Repeat 3 times. This removes bitterness while preserving citrus oils.

Step 2: Candy the Citrus

• Combine 2 cups sugar and 1 cup water in the saucepan. Heat until sugar dissolves (about 3 minutes on medium).

• Add orange peels, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Reduce heat to low simmer.

• Cook uncovered for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peels turn translucent and syrup reduces by half.

• Optional: Add vanilla or star anise in last 10 minutes for flavor depth.

Step 3: Dry & Finish

• Using tongs, transfer peels to a wire rack placed over parchment paper.

• Let drain for 10 minutes (reserve syrup for cocktails or simple syrup!).

• Toss peels in granulated sugar until fully coated.

• Return to rack. Air-dry for 4-8 hours until no longer sticky.

• Chocolate Option: Melt dark chocolate and dip half of each peel. Place on wax paper to set.

Storage & Creative Uses

Store candy peels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 weeks or refrigerate for 2 months. Transform your batch into:

• Baking Mix-Ins: Chop and add to scones, biscotti, or muffin batter

• Cocktail Garnish: Skewer with cherries for Old Fashioneds

• Trail Mix Upgrade: Pair with dark chocolate and almonds

• Holiday Decor: String undipped peels into edible garlands

• Gift Idea: Layer in jars with parchment between layers

Why This Recipe Works (The Science of Sweet)

The triple boiling method is non-negotiable for tender peels without bitterness. Pith contains harsh compounds that leaching removes, while the cell structure softens to absorb sugar effectively. Slow simmering in syrup allows osmosis to replace water with sugar molecules—nature’s preservative that gives candied peel its shelf-stable texture.

Troubleshooting Tips

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  • Too Chewy? Simmer longer (up to 75 mins) for softer texture
  
  
  
  
  • Too Sweet? Reduce final sugar coating or add lemon juice to syrup
  
  
  • Crystallized Syrup? Add 1 tbsp corn syrup next time or brush peels with simple syrup before drying

Compared to complicated confections, this candied orange peel recipe delivers maximum flavor payoff for minimal effort. Once you master the technique, experiment with different citrus varieties or spice infusions like cinnamon sticks or cardamom pods. Whether folded into panettone, decorating a Yule log, or enjoyed as a quick sweet fix, homemade candied orange peel proves that kitchen magic often starts with ingredients we overlook.

Ready to upgrade your culinary repertoire? Save those peels and let their second act shine!