Candied Orange Peel Recipe
Introduction
Candied Orange Peel is a classic sweet treat made from fresh orange peels simmered in sugar syrup until tender, glossy, and deliciously fragrant. With its bright citrus flavor and chewy texture, this recipe transforms simple orange peels into a gourmet candy.
This homemade candied peel is perfect for holiday baking, gifting, or using as a garnish for cakes, cookies, and desserts. It’s a wonderful way to reduce food waste while creating something truly special.
Making candied orange peel at home is easy and requires only a few basic ingredients. The result is a naturally sweet, aromatic treat that tastes far better than store-bought versions.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories Approx |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh oranges | 4 large | 240 |
| Granulated sugar | 2 cups | 1,548 |
| Water | 2 cups | 0 |
| Extra sugar (for coating) | ½ cup | 387 |
How to Make Candied Orange Peel
Wash the oranges thoroughly and peel them, keeping the peels intact. Slice the peels into thin strips and remove excess white pith if desired.
Place the orange peels in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Drain and repeat this blanching process two more times to reduce bitterness.
In a clean saucepan, combine sugar and water, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add the blanched orange peels and cook on low heat until the peels become translucent and glossy.
Remove the peels from the syrup and allow them to drain briefly. Toss the warm peels in extra sugar to coat evenly.
Lay the candied peels on a wire rack or parchment paper and let them dry completely before storing or using.
Prep Time & Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings
This recipe makes about 2 cups of candied orange peel.
Tips & Variations
- Use organic oranges for the best flavor and minimal chemical residue.
- Dip the dried candied peels in melted dark chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
- Try this recipe with lemons or grapefruits for a different citrus flavor.
- Save the leftover orange syrup to sweeten tea, cocktails, or desserts.
Storage & Reheating
Store candied orange peel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. No reheating is required.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Protein | 0g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 38g |
| Sodium | 5mg |
Serving Suggestions
Serve candied orange peel as a sweet snack, garnish for cakes and cupcakes, or chopped into cookies and muffins. It also makes a beautiful topping for chocolate desserts and ice cream.
These citrus candies pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, especially during the holiday season.
Conclusion
Candied Orange Peel is a simple yet elegant homemade treat that adds a burst of citrus sweetness to any occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create a versatile candy that’s perfect for baking, gifting, or enjoying on its own.
Once you make this recipe at home, you’ll never want to throw away orange peels again. It’s a delicious way to turn something ordinary into something extraordinary
