Easy Candied Orange Peel

Name: Easy Candied Orange Peel
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 fresh unwaxed oranges; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup water; Pinch of salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Optional: spices like cinnamon, star anise, or cloves

Published: December 20, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can make this delicious candy easily.
Versatile Uses: Enjoy candied orange peel on its own, as a dessert topping, or in cocktails!
Natural Flavor: The freshness of oranges combined with sugar creates a vibrant taste without artificial additives.
Gift-Worthy Treat: Beautifully packaged, these candied peels make great gifts for friends and family.
Quick Preparation: In under an hour, you can have a delightful snack ready to enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Easy Candied Orange Peel, gather your essential tools. Using the right equipment will help streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Saucepan
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Slotted spoon or tongs
Cooling rack
Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

Saucepan: Ideal for boiling the peels and creating the sugar syrup; it distributes heat evenly.
Sharp knife: Necessary for accurately peeling the oranges without cutting into the bitter pith.
Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the candied peels for even drying.

Ingredients

For this delectable Easy Candied Orange Peel recipe, you will need:

Fresh Ingredients

4 fresh unwaxed oranges (preferably organic, navel or Valencia)

Sweeteners and Flavorings

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
Pinch of salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Spices

1 cinnamon stick
2 star anise
3 cloves

Coating Options (Optional)

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

How to Make Easy Candied Orange Peel

Step 1: Prepare the Oranges

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

Step 2: Boil the Peels

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

Step 3: Make the Sugar Syrup

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

Step 4: Cook the Peels

Add the boiled peels to the sugar syrup. 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

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

How to Serve Easy Candied Orange Peel

Easy Candied Orange Peel is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re looking to enhance your desserts or simply snack on them, this treat offers a burst of citrus flavor. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

As a Snack

Enjoy the candied peels on their own as a sweet and chewy snack. They are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without any guilt.

In Desserts

Use candied orange peel as an elegant topping for cakes, cupcakes, or tarts. Their vibrant color adds a beautiful touch to your sweet creations.

In Salads

Chop the candied orange peel and mix it into salads for a zesty twist. The sweetness pairs well with leafy greens and tangy dressings.

In Trail Mix

Add chopped pieces of candied orange peel to your homemade trail mix. They provide a delicious contrast to nuts and other dried fruits.

As a Garnish

Use candied orange peel as a garnish for cocktails or mocktails. They add a sophisticated flair and enhance the drink’s citrus notes.

In Baking

Incorporate diced candied orange peel into cookie or muffin batter for a citrusy surprise in every bite. They blend well with chocolate or nuts.

How to Perfect Easy Candied Orange Peel

Making Easy Candied Orange Peel is simple, but there are a few tips to elevate your results. Keep these in mind for the best outcome.

Choose fresh oranges: Using unwaxed, organic oranges ensures better flavor and texture in your candy.
Remove excess pith: Carefully peeling the skin minimizes bitterness, resulting in sweeter candied peels.
Adjust sugar levels: Feel free to reduce sugar slightly if you prefer less sweetness while still enjoying the candy’s essence.
Experiment with spices: Adding cinnamon, star anise, or cloves can give your candied peels an exciting flavor twist.
Let them dry properly: Allowing enough drying time helps achieve that perfect glossy finish without stickiness.
Store correctly: Keep your candied peels in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent sticking.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Candied Orange Peel

Pairing Easy Candied Orange Peel with the right side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses like brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar complements the sweetness of candied peels beautifully.
Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed with vinaigrette balance the sweetness of the candy while adding crunch.
Nut & Fruit Platter: Combine nuts (like almonds or walnuts) and dried fruits (like cranberries) for a textured dish that contrasts nicely with the soft candy.
Chocolate Fondue: Serve with melted dark or white chocolate for dipping; it creates a decadent dessert experience.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurts with granola and pieces of candied orange peel for a refreshing breakfast or snack.
Oatmeal Bowl: Stir chopped candied peels into oatmeal for added sweetness and flavor; top with nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
Fruit Sorbet: Pair with citrus-flavored sorbet for an invigorating dessert that echoes the bright flavors of the candy.
Pancakes or Waffles: Use as a topping along with maple syrup; they add a unique twist to classic breakfast favorites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make mistakes when making candied orange peel that can affect the final product. Here are some common pitfalls and how to dodge them.

Skipping the rinsing step: Not boiling the orange peels before candying can result in overly bitter flavors. Always rinse and boil your peels multiple times to reduce bitterness.
Using non-organic oranges: Conventional oranges may have wax or pesticides that can alter the taste and texture. Opt for organic, unwaxed oranges for the best flavor.
Ignoring the sugar ratio: Using too little sugar can lead to a syrupy mess rather than a candy. Stick to the recommended sugar-to-water ratio for proper consistency.
Overcooking the peels: Cooking them too long can cause the peels to become tough instead of tender. Monitor closely and remove them from heat once they are translucent.
Not letting them dry properly: Skipping the drying process can make your candied orange peel sticky. Allow sufficient time for them to dry completely on a cooling rack.
Forgetting flavor enhancements: Neglecting spices or vanilla can leave your candied orange peel lacking depth. Consider adding spices like cinnamon or star anise for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Candied Orange Peel

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or use a freezer-safe container.
Good for up to six months in the freezer.

Reheating Easy Candied Orange Peel

Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes until slightly softened.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds, checking frequently until warm.
Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat in a pan, stirring carefully until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Easy Candied Orange Peel.

How do I make Easy Candied Orange Peel less bitter?

To reduce bitterness, boil your orange peels multiple times before candying. This will help remove some of the pith’s bitterness.

Can I use other citrus fruits?

Absolutely! You can use lemons, limes, or grapefruits following the same method as for Easy Candied Orange Peel.

What is the best way to use Easy Candied Orange Peel?

You can enjoy it as a snack, use it as a dessert topping, or incorporate it into baked goods for added flavor.

How long does Easy Candied Orange Peel last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to two weeks in the refrigerator or up to six months in the freezer.

Can I add flavors to my Easy Candied Orange Peel?

Yes! Feel free to enhance with spices like cinnamon or cloves during cooking for a flavorful twist.

Final Thoughts

Easy Candied Orange Peel is not only a delightful treat but also incredibly versatile. Use it as a garnish, mix it into desserts, or simply enjoy it on its own. Plus, you can customize it by adding different spices or dipping it in chocolate for an extra special touch!

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