Candied orange slices are a delightful way to bring a burst of citrus flavor into your kitchen. These sweet, glossy treats are not only beautiful to look at but also incredibly versatile. Whether enjoyed on their own, added to a cheese platter, or used as a garnish for desserts and cocktails, candied orange slices impress with their vibrant taste and captivating aroma. The process is surprisingly simple, making it a perfect project for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 19 hours 20 minutes (includes drying time)
- Servings: Approximately 12
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 120
- Protein: 0.5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 31 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 29 grams
- Sodium: 0 mg
Why Make This Candied Orange Slices
Candied orange slices elevate almost any dish with their sweet and tangy flavor profile. They brighten up desserts, serve as stunning garnishes, or add an elegant touch to festive platters. Not to mention, they can be stored and enjoyed anytime you crave a little sweetness. Plus, crafting these is a great way to use up any extra oranges you have on hand, giving you a delightful treat while minimizing waste.
How to Make Candied Orange Slices
Making candied orange slices is a delightful process that transforms ordinary fruit into something extraordinary. Follow these simple steps for a candy-making adventure that will fill your kitchen with citrusy aromas.
Ingredients:
- 6 small oranges (such as Cara Cara, Blood Oranges, Mineolas or Tangelos, sliced 4-5mm)
- 12 cups water (divided)
- 3 ½ cups granulated sugar (divided)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Thoroughly wash the oranges, then use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice them to a thickness of 4-5mm. If you find that your oranges are too soft to cut evenly, place them in the freezer for about 30 minutes to help them firm up before slicing.
Step 2: Blanching
Bring a medium pot or sauté pan with 6 cups of water to a boil. Boil the orange slices for 2 minutes, then transfer the slices to an ice bath and discard the boiled water. This technique helps remove some bitterness from the peel and pith, ensuring a sweeter final product.
Step 3: Cooking
In the same large pot, bring the remaining 6 cups of water and 3 cups of granulated sugar to a boil. Add the blanched orange slices, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45-60 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure all slices are evenly coated in the syrup. After simmering, the rinds should appear slightly translucent.
Step 4: Drying
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the orange slices from the syrup and spread them evenly on a drying rack. Allow them to dry at room temperature for about 18 hours, flipping occasionally. The slices will be sticky but not wet when they’re ready for the sugar coating. If you prefer to keep the syrup (which can be used as orange simple syrup for cocktails), let it cool completely, strain it, and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three weeks.
Once dried, gently toss the orange slices in ½ cup of granulated sugar to coat. Serve them immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a month.
How to Serve Candied Orange Slices
Candied orange slices can be served in numerous ways. Add them to a charcuterie board alongside cheeses and nuts for a beautiful display. They make an eye-catching garnish for cakes, pastries, or festive cocktails. Alternatively, you can enjoy them straight from the jar as a sweet treat!
How to Store Candied Orange Slices
To store your candied orange slices, place them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will retain their delightful texture and flavor for about one month. If they start to feel overly sticky, you can toss them in a little extra granulated sugar to help keep them dry.
Expert Tips for Perfect Candied Orange Slices
- Use fresh, firm oranges for best results; softer oranges can be challenging to slice evenly.
- For an added flavor twist, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the sugar before coating the slices.
- If you prefer a little extra flair, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the dried slices after they cool.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Drizzled Orange Slices: After drying, melt chocolate and drizzle over the slices for a delicious twist.
- Spiced Orange Slices: Add cinnamon or star anise to the sugar syrup for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Citrus Medley: Combine different citrus fruits, like lemons or grapefruits, for a colorful variety.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other citrus fruits for this recipe?
Yes! You can use lemons, limes, or grapefruit to create delightful variations of candied slices.
2. How long do candied orange slices last?
When stored in an airtight container, they can last up to one month at room temperature.
3. What is the purpose of blanching the orange slices?
Blanching helps soften the orange peels and reduces bitterness, resulting in a sweeter candy.
4. Can I use less sugar in the recipe?
While sugar is crucial for the candying process, you could experiment with reducing the sugar slightly, but this may affect the texture and flavor.
5. What can I do with the leftover simple syrup?
You can use the syrup in cocktails, drizzle it over pancakes, or add it to sparkling water for a refreshing drink.
Conclusion
Candied orange slices offer a delicious way to indulge your sweet tooth while brightening up a variety of dishes. With their stunning appearance and irresistible taste, they are worth the small effort involved in making them. Whether you’re planning a party or wanting to enjoy a treat at home, try this easy recipe and bring a taste of sunshine into your kitchen!
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Candied Orange Slices
- Total Time: 19 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Delightful candied orange slices that bring sweetness and vibrant citrus flavor to your kitchen. Perfect for garnishes, cheese platters, or as a standalone treat.
Ingredients
- 6 small oranges (sliced 4-5mm)
- 12 cups water (divided)
- 3 ½ cups granulated sugar (divided)
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the oranges and slice them to a thickness of 4-5mm. If necessary, freeze them for 30 minutes to help with slicing.
- Bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Boil the orange slices for 2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath and discard the boiled water.
- In the same pot, bring the remaining 6 cups of water and 3 cups of sugar to a boil. Add the blanched orange slices and simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the slices with a slotted spoon and spread them on a drying rack. Allow them to dry for about 18 hours at room temperature, flipping occasionally. Toss in ½ cup of sugar to coat once dried.
Notes
Use fresh, firm oranges for best results. For added flavor, sprinkle sea salt in the sugar before coating or drizzle with melted chocolate after drying.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Candying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
