Candied orange peel has been a treasured treat in my family for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I can still picture my grandma standing at the kitchen counter, meticulously slicing and simmering those vibrant orange strips until they transformed into the most delectable, sticky-sweet confections. The aroma of citrus and spice would waft through the house, instantly transporting us all to a cozy, nostalgic place.
Whenever the holidays rolled around, we’d all gather around and savor every bite of her famous Candied Orange Peel. It was the perfect balance of tart and sugary, with a satisfying chew that kept you coming back for more. I can still feel the burst of sunshine in my mouth with each piece, and the way it seemed to instantly lift my spirits. To this day, Candied Orange Peel remains one of my most cherished culinary memories – a true taste of tradition and comfort.
Why This Candied Orange Peel Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
That’s why I’m so excited to share my own Candied Orange Peel recipe with you. It’s the perfect blend of my grandma’s time-honored techniques and a few modern twists that take this classic treat to the next level. Trust me, once you try this version, it’s going to become your new go-to for all sorts of occasions.
The Secret Behind Perfect Candied Orange Peel
The key is in the attention to detail – from the way the orange peels are prepared, to the slow, gentle simmering process, to the final sugar coating. It really brings out the natural sweetness and vibrant flavor of the citrus. Plus, I’ve added a hint of warming spices that complement the orange so beautifully. The result is a Candied Orange Peel that’s not only visually stunning, but utterly addictive in the best way.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Oranges: The star of the show! You’ll want to use fresh, ripe oranges for the most intense, aromatic flavor.
- Sugar: A combination of granulated and brown sugar creates the perfect caramelized coating.
- Spices: A pinch of cinnamon and cloves adds depth and complexity.
- Water: For simmering the orange peels until they’re tender.
Step-by-Step Candied Orange Peel Instructions
Preparing Your Candied Orange Peel
This Candied Orange Peel recipe is surprisingly simple, but does require a bit of hands-on time and patience. The total process takes around 2 hours from start to finish, but the results are so worth it. You’ll need a sharp knife, a heavy-bottomed saucepan, and a few other basic kitchen tools.
1- Start by thoroughly washing your oranges and using a sharp knife to carefully peel off long strips of the zest, avoiding the bitter white pith.
2- Place the orange peels in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. This helps remove any bitterness.
3- Drain the peels, then return them to the pan and cover with fresh water. Simmer for another 30 minutes until very tender.
4- Drain the peels once more, then return them to the pan. Add the granulated and brown sugars, cinnamon, and cloves. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the peels are coated in a thick, glossy syrup, about 45 minutes.
5- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the Candied Orange Peel to a parchment-lined baking sheet, arranging the pieces in a single layer.
6- Allow the peels to cool completely, then enjoy as a sweet, chewy treat on their own or use them to garnish all sorts of desserts and beverages.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfect Candied Orange Peel is patience and attention to detail. Be sure to simmer the peels twice to remove any bitterness, and don’t rush the final sugar-coating process. Stir frequently and keep a close eye to prevent burning. You also want to make sure the peels are evenly coated for the best texture and appearance.
Serving and Storing Your Candied Orange Peel
Perfect Pairings for Candied Orange Peel
Candied Orange Peel is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in so many ways. It makes a wonderful addition to hot teas, coffees, and mulled wines, adding a pop of bright, citrusy flavor. They also pair beautifully with dark chocolate, toasted nuts, and creamy desserts like cheesecake or pudding. And of course, they’re absolutely delightful all on their own as a sweet, chewy snack.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Properly stored, your homemade Candied Orange Peel will keep for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze the peels for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes until warm and softened. This makes Candied Orange Peel a great make-ahead option for the holidays or any time you need a quick, impressive treat on hand.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Candied Orange Peel
Creative Candied Orange Peel Variations
While the classic version is absolutely divine, there are lots of fun ways to switch up this recipe. Try using different citrus peels like lemon, lime, or grapefruit. You can also experiment with spice blends, like adding a pinch of cardamom or star anise. For a festive twist, dip the candied peels in melted dark, milk, or white chocolate. The options are endless!
Making Candied Orange Peel Diet-Friendly
Believe it or not, Candied Orange Peel can actually be made diet-friendly with a few simple swaps. For a lower-sugar version, you can use granulated erythritol or monk fruit sweetener instead of regular sugar. To make it vegan, simply replace the granulated sugar with coconut sugar. And for a gluten-free option, be sure to use certified gluten-free ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use the entire orange peel, or just the zest?
A: For the best texture and flavor, you’ll want to use just the bright orange zest, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.
Q: How long do the candied peels last, and how should I store them?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container at room temperature, your homemade Candied Orange Peel will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I double or triple this recipe?
A: Absolutely! This recipe can easily be scaled up to make larger batches. Just be sure to use larger pots or work in multiple batches to ensure even cooking.
Q: My peels seem a bit tough or chewy. What did I do wrong?
A: If your Candied Orange Peel has an overly tough texture, it’s likely that you didn’t simmer them long enough in the initial cooking steps. Be sure to follow the recommended timing to ensure the peels are tender before coating them in the sugar syrup.
Q: Can I use this recipe for other citrus fruits?
A: Yes, you can absolutely use this method to candy the peels of lemons, limes, grapefruits, or any other citrus fruit. The process will be the same, but you may need to adjust the simmering times depending on the thickness of the peels.
Candied Orange Peel
- Total Time: 80
- Yield: 16 servings
Description
Homemade Candied Orange Peel is a sweet, chewy treat with a bright citrus flavor. This easy recipe turns leftover orange peels into a delightful snack or garnish.
Ingredients
– Orange peels, removed in strips with a vegetable peeler
– Granulated sugar
– Water
Instructions
1. – Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the orange peels. Boil for 10 minutes to soften.
2. – Drain the peels and return them to the pot. Add an equal amount of sugar and water, about 1 cup each.
3. – Simmer the peels in the sugar-water mixture for 45-60 minutes, until the peels are translucent and the liquid has thickened.
4. – Remove the peels from the liquid and roll them in extra granulated sugar to coat.
5. – Spread the coated peels on a baking sheet and let dry completely, about 2 hours.
6. – Store the candied orange peels in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
For best texture, be sure to peel the orange zest in long, thin strips. Adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve your desired level of chewiness. These candied peels make a great homemade gift or topping for cakes, ice cream, and more.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 60
- Category: Snacks & Desserts
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Candied Orange Peel is a true labor of love, but I promise the effort is so worth it. The combination of bright, tangy citrus and sweet, sticky caramelized sugar is simply unbeatable. Whether you enjoy them on their own as a snack, or use them to elevate all sorts of sweet treats, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new household favorite. I can’t wait for you to experience the magic of homemade Candied Orange Peel – let me know how it turns out for you in the comments below!