Candied Orange Peel for Chocolate Bark

Name: Candied Orange Peel for Chocolate Bark
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 2 cups
Ingredients: 2 large oranges; 2 cups water; 2 cups granulated sugar; Chocolate of your choice (for bark)

Highlighted under: Tea Time | Cookies & Cakes

I absolutely love adding a twist to my chocolate desserts, and candied orange peel has become one of my favorite ingredients. The vibrant citrus flavor beautifully complements rich chocolate, adding a satisfying crunch and a burst of freshness. This simple technique transforms ordinary orange peels into a sweet treat that can elevate any chocolate bark. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a dessert, I find that it’s a delightful way to use the whole fruit. Today, I’ll take you through this easy and rewarding process!

Created by

Wendys

Last updated on 2026-02-14T16:06:19.124Z

When I first decided to make candied orange peel, I was surprised at how easy it was! I used to think it was a complex process reserved for expert bakers. However, after my first attempt, I realized it's just about a little patience and the right technique. The trick is to simmer the orange peels slowly, allowing the sugar to penetrate and transform them into something incredible.

In my kitchen experiments, I discovered that using fresh, organic oranges really makes a difference. The peels turn out vibrant and full of flavor, which enhances the chocolate bark even more. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen during the cooking process is absolutely heavenly!

        You'll Love This Recipe Because
        The sweet, tangy flavor perfectly complements rich chocolate.
A quick way to enhance your desserts with minimal effort.
Great for gifting or special occasions!

      

Mastering the Candied Technique

The transformation of orange peels into candied delights hinges on a crucial technique: blanching them before sugar cooking. By first simmering the peels in water, you remove their bitterness and enhance their natural sweetness. The boiling process usually requires 10 to 15 minutes until the peels become tender yet still retain their structural integrity. Make sure to monitor the peels; if they become too soft, they will lose the ideal texture you want for candying.

During the sugar syrup cooking phase, using the right ratio of sugar to water is key. A 1:1 ratio ensures the peels are properly coated and absorb the sweetness without becoming overly sticky. Aim for a gentle simmer, allowing the syrup to envelop the peels until they turn translucent, around 20 minutes. This process not only sweetens but also preserves the vibrant flavor profile of the oranges.

Perfect Pairings and Presentation

Once the candied orange peels are set, their versatility shines through! They can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or used as a fancy garnish on cakes, cupcakes, or even cocktails. If you choose to dip them in chocolate for chocolate bark, I recommend using high-quality dark, milk, or white chocolate, as it enhances the citrusy flavor. For a decorative touch, sprinkle some sea salt on the chocolate-covered peels before they harden to create a delightful contrast between sweet and salty.

When it comes to storage, ensure the candied peels are fully dried on the wire rack to avoid excess moisture, which could lead to a sticky texture. Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing them; lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag. This way, you can bring out just the right amount for your sweet creations.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients for Candied Orange Peel

2 large oranges
2 cups water
2 cups granulated sugar
Chocolate of your choice (for bark)

Once you have everything prepared, you're ready to start turning those orange peels into a delicious treat!

Instructions

Here's a step-by-step guide to making candied orange peels:

Prepare the Oranges

Wash the oranges thoroughly. Cut the ends off and slice them into quarters, removing the fruit and leaving just the peel.

Simmer the Peels

In a saucepan, combine the orange peels and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for about 10–15 minutes until tender.

Sugar the Peels

Drain the peels and return them to the saucepan. Add sugar and enough water to cover the peels. Simmer for 20 minutes until the peels become translucent and are coated with sugar.

Dry and Coat

Remove the peels from the syrup and place them on a wire rack to dry. Once dried, you can dip them in melted chocolate for your chocolate bark.

Once everything is dried and cooled, you can enjoy your candied orange peels as a snack or use them in desserts!

Pro Tips

Make sure to keep an eye on the orange peels while they sugar. If they start to brown too much, reduce the heat.

Ingredient Substitutions

While the recipe specifically calls for oranges, feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits, such as grapefruits or lemons, for different flavor profiles. If you want a different sweetness level, you can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or agave syrup; just be aware that these may affect the color and consistency. For a healthier alternative, consider using honey, but make sure to adjust the cooking times, as honey caramelizes faster than sugar.

If you’re looking to avoid sugar altogether, you can try using a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. However, note that the texture may differ, and you might need to adjust the cooking process slightly to ensure the peels still become translucent and flavorful.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your candied orange peels turn out too sticky, this usually indicates that they did not dry properly or that the sugar syrup was too thick during cooking. Make sure to allow plenty of drying time on the wire rack, ideally several hours, before storing. If they are still sticky after drying, you can try rolling them in some granulated sugar to give them a nice non-sticky coating.

Should the peels appear overcooked and mushy, reduce the simmering time during the initial blanching phase. Each orange can differ slightly in texture and thickness, so keep an eye on them. It’s worthwhile to check for tenderness at the 10-minute mark to find the optimal cooking time for your citrus fruits.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other citrus fruits?

Yes, grapefruit or lemon peels can also be candied using the same method!

→ How long do candied orange peels last?

If stored in an airtight container, they can last up to two weeks.

→ Can I freeze candied orange peels?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to six months, just ensure they are well-packaged.

→ What chocolate works best for the bark?

Dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with the citrus, but feel free to use milk or white chocolate depending on your taste.