Candied Orange Peel Dessert Candy
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely adore making Candied Orange Peel Dessert Candy at home! This delightful treat combines the vibrant flavors of fresh oranges with a perfect balance of sweetness, making it an incredibly satisfying confection. The process may seem a bit tedious, but the end result is a chewy and zesty candy that’s perfect for snacking or gifting. I find that using fresh oranges gives the best flavor, and the best part is that you can customize the sweetness to your liking! Let’s dive into this delicious recipe.
From the moment I first tasted candied orange peel, I was hooked. There’s something truly special about the way the natural citrus flavor comes alive when coated in sugar. I remember experimenting with different types of sugar and adjusting the cooking times to find the perfect balance. This method really works to preserve the vibrant color and flavor of the oranges while giving them a delightful chewy texture.
My greatest tip? Let the peel dry overnight after candied; it enhances the flavor significantly as the sugar forms a lovely crust. It’s a simple yet rewarding process that keeps me coming back for more. I’m always excited to share these with friends, and they make for a beautiful addition to any dessert platter!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Vibrant citrus flavor that brightens your day
- Chewy texture that satisfies any sweet tooth
- A beautiful homemade gift for friends and family
Understanding the Process
Making Candied Orange Peel requires patience, but understanding each step can enhance your results. When you remove the flesh from the oranges, be careful not to cut into the inner white pith too deeply — it can impart a bitter flavor. Instead, aim for a clean peel, which will yield a sweeter candy. If you find the peels too thick, you can slice them thinner for a more delicate texture after they’re boiled and candied.
Boiling the peels initially softens them, allowing them to absorb the syrup better during the candying stage. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture. If you find that the peels aren’t becoming translucent as expected, continue simmering for an additional 10-15 minutes. Every batch of oranges can vary in thickness, so adjust your time based on the actual results you observe.
Tips for Sweetness and Flavor
The sweetness of your candied orange peels can be customized based on your preference. If you like your candy less sweet, consider reducing the granulated sugar by up to 1/2 cup. Just keep in mind that too little sugar might affect the texture and preservation of the candy. Using a mix of granulated sugar and brown sugar can add a hint of molasses flavor, offering a deeper complexity to your Candied Orange Peel.
Don’t overlook the role of vanilla extract in this recipe. It not only enhances the flavor of the orange peels but adds a lovely aroma to your kitchen while the candy simmers. You can also try substituting the vanilla with a few drops of almond extract for a unique twist. Just be cautious with how much you use, as almond extract can be potent.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to get started:
Ingredients
- 4 large oranges
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Once you have everything ready, it’s time to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your candied orange peel:
Prepare the Oranges
Wash the oranges thoroughly and slice off the top and bottom ends. Cut the oranges into quarters and carefully remove the flesh, leaving just the peel. Slice the peel into thin strips.
Boil the Peels
In a pot, combine the orange peels, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Drain and rinse the peels in cold water.
Create the Syrup
In the same pot, mix the sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Bring to a simmer and stir until the sugar dissolves.
Candy the Peels
Add the orange peels to the syrup and simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peels become translucent.
Dry the Peels
Once done, remove the peels and place them on a cooling rack or parchment paper. Let them dry at room temperature for at least 12 hours.
Coat in Sugar and Store
Once the peels are dried, toss them in granulated sugar to coat lightly. Store them in an airtight container for up to three weeks.
Enjoy your homemade candied orange peel as a sweet treat!
Pro Tips
- For an extra twist, you can dip the candied orange peel in dark chocolate once dried. It adds an amazing richness that complements the citrus flavor beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Candied Orange Peel can be enjoyed straight from the jar, but it also makes a delightful addition to various desserts. Consider chopping the candied peels and incorporating them into cookies, cakes, or even dark chocolate-covered treats for an upscale confection. They can also elevate your charcuterie board, providing a sweet contrast to savory cheeses and meats.
For a refreshing twist, slice the peels thin and add them to teas or cocktails. They work particularly well in gin and tonics or as a fancy garnish for holiday drinks. Combining them with flavors like mint or rosemary can add an aromatic touch that impresses guests.
Storage and Shelf Life
Once your Candied Orange Peel has dried, proper storage is key to maintaining its chewy texture and flavor. Store the peels in an airtight container at room temperature, and they should remain fresh for up to three weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the candied peels in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
If you choose to freeze your candy, allow it to thaw at room temperature before serving. This will help maintain its appealing texture. If you notice any stickiness due to humidity, a light dusting of granulated sugar can restore the desired finish before enjoying them.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other citrus fruits instead of oranges?
Absolutely! Grapefruit, lemons, and limes work well too, but adjust the sugar to match the tartness.
→ How should I store the candied orange peel?
Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It can last for up to three weeks if stored properly.
→ Can I use the leftover orange flesh?
Yes, you can juice it or use it in other recipes such as smoothies or salads.
→ Is it necessary to dry the peels overnight?
While it’s not mandatory, drying enhances the texture and flavor, making them more candy-like.
Candied Orange Peel Dessert Candy
I absolutely adore making Candied Orange Peel Dessert Candy at home! This delightful treat combines the vibrant flavors of fresh oranges with a perfect balance of sweetness, making it an incredibly satisfying confection. The process may seem a bit tedious, but the end result is a chewy and zesty candy that’s perfect for snacking or gifting. I find that using fresh oranges gives the best flavor, and the best part is that you can customize the sweetness to your liking! Let’s dive into this delicious recipe.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: Approximately 20 pieces
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 large oranges
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Wash the oranges thoroughly and slice off the top and bottom ends. Cut the oranges into quarters and carefully remove the flesh, leaving just the peel. Slice the peel into thin strips.
In a pot, combine the orange peels, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Drain and rinse the peels in cold water.
In the same pot, mix the sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Bring to a simmer and stir until the sugar dissolves.
Add the orange peels to the syrup and simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peels become translucent.
Once done, remove the peels and place them on a cooling rack or parchment paper. Let them dry at room temperature for at least 12 hours.
Once the peels are dried, toss them in granulated sugar to coat lightly. Store them in an airtight container for up to three weeks.
Extra Tips
- For an extra twist, you can dip the candied orange peel in dark chocolate once dried. It adds an amazing richness that complements the citrus flavor beautifully.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 32g
- Protein: 1g