Candied Orange Peel Homemade Treats

Name: Candied Orange Peel Homemade Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Ingredients: 2 large organic oranges; 2 cups water; 1 cup granulated sugar; 4 oz dark chocolate, melted (for dipping); 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Highlighted under: Tea Time | Cookies & Cakes

I absolutely love making candied orange peels at home; it’s a delightful way to use up leftover citrus peels. The sweet, tangy flavor combined with a hint of bitterness creates a perfect little treat. I find that these homemade candies make for an exceptional addition to desserts, or they can be enjoyed on their own as a refreshing snack. Plus, they are much healthier than store-bought options, allowing me to indulge without the guilt. You simply have to try making them yourself!

Created by

Wendys

Last updated on 2026-02-14T15:42:19.697Z

Creating candied orange peels is a process that I truly enjoy. The method I use ensures that the peels are soft yet chewy, with just the right amount of sweetness. After boiling the orange peels to soften them, it’s crucial to let them rest in sugar syrup for optimal absorption of flavor. I remember the first time I made these; I couldn’t believe how easy it was to transform so simple an ingredient into something so gourmet!

One tip I’ve learned over time is to choose organic oranges if possible, as their peels are free from harmful pesticides and chemicals. This is not only beneficial for my health but also enhances the taste of the final product. Once the peels are thoroughly candied, I like to dip them in dark chocolate for an extra decadent treat. Try experimenting with different citrus fruits for varied flavors!

        Why You'll Love These Treats
        The bright, zesty flavor of fresh oranges comes alive in every bite.
A chewy texture that offers a perfect balance between sweetness and bitterness.
Versatile for use in desserts, holiday gifts, or a sweet snack any time.

      

The Importance of Using Organic Oranges

When making candied orange peels, using organic oranges is key for achieving the best flavor and texture. Organic oranges are grown without synthetic pesticides, which means their peels contain fewer chemicals. This is particularly important since you're using the peels in a recipe where the bitterness and natural essence of the fruit should shine. Plus, organic oranges tend to be fresher, lending a bright and zesty flavor that elevates your finished candy.

The oils in the peel are also more vibrant in organic oranges, contributing to a more aromatic candy. Look for oranges that are firm with a vibrant color; they should feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. Keep in mind that the quality of your oranges directly impacts the candied peel's taste, so don’t skip this step.

Achieving the Perfect Candied Texture

Cooking the orange peels at the right temperature is crucial to achieving that perfect translucent candy texture. When you simmer the peels in the sugar syrup, maintain a gentle bubble rather than a full boil—this helps the syrup penetrate the peel evenly without breaking it down too quickly. You'll know the peels are done when they appear glossy and slightly thicker; this usually takes around 45 minutes. If you notice the syrup is thickening too much, feel free to add a bit more water to maintain consistency.

After boiling, it’s essential to let the peels cool in the syrup for at least 30 minutes. This rest period allows the peels to absorb more of the sweet syrup. If you're looking for a firmer candy, you can also let them sit overnight, which will enhance the flavor and develop an even chewier texture.

Storing and Enjoying Your Candied Peels

Proper storage is vital for keeping your candied orange peels fresh and flavorful. Once they've dried completely after rolling in sugar or dipping in chocolate, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to two weeks if kept dry, but if you notice them becoming sticky, it’s a sign they need to be consumed soon. I like to separate layers with wax paper to avoid them sticking together.

If you want to make these treats in advance for gift-giving, consider preparing a batch a week or two before an event. You can easily make a larger quantity and create lovely gift packs by pairing them with nuts or chocolate. For an extra special touch, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on the chocolate-dipped peels before they fully set. It adds an exciting contrast that enhances the overall flavor!

Ingredients

For the Candied Orange Peels

2 large organic oranges
2 cups water
1 cup granulated sugar

Optional for the Coating

4 oz dark chocolate, melted (for dipping)
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Oranges

Begin by thoroughly washing the oranges. Use a vegetable peeler to carefully remove the peel in strips, making sure to avoid the white pith as much as possible.

Boil the Peels

In a saucepan, combine the orange peels and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes. Drain and rinse the peels under cold water.

Candy the Peels

Return the peels to the saucepan and add 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water. Bring to a simmer again, and let it cook until the peels become translucent, about 45 minutes. Remove from heat and let the peels cool in the syrup.

Roll or Dip

Once cooled, remove the peels from the syrup and roll them in granulated sugar or dip them in melted chocolate. Place on a parchment-lined tray to set.

Enjoy!

Allow the candied peels to dry completely before enjoying or storing in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to the syrup while cooking the peels.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, the orange peels won’t candy correctly due to erratic simmering temperatures. If your peels turn mushy, you may have let the syrup boil too fiercely. In the future, maintain a low simmer and keep an eye on the texture as it develops. Additionally, if your syrup crystallizes before the peels are done, adding a small splash of water can help dissolve the crystals and ensure a smooth finish.

Another common pitfall is uneven coating. When rolling in sugar or dipping in chocolate, ensure that the peels are cool enough to hold the coating. If the peels are too warm, the sugar will melt and create a slimy texture. If you find this happening, give them a bit more time to cool down or use a fork to help with the application.

Variations to Try

While this recipe features classic candied orange peels, you can easily experiment with different citrus. Grapefruit, lemon, or even lime peels can offer a unique twist to the traditional recipe. The process remains the same, but you might want to adjust the sugar levels based on the fruit's inherent sweetness. Grapefruit, for example, typically requires a bit more sugar due to its natural tartness.

For an exotic touch, add spices like cinnamon or ginger to the sugar while cooking the syrup. This can elevate the flavor profile and create a complex taste experience. Another variation is to dip the cooled peels in white chocolate sprinkled with crushed nuts for added crunch, creating a delightful contrast with the chewy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other citrus fruits?

Yes, you can use lemons, limes, or grapefruits for a different flavor experience.

→ What’s the best way to store candied orange peels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for several weeks.

→ Do I need to peel the oranges before juicing?

No, you can juice the oranges and then use the peels afterward for candying.

→ Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Reducing the sugar may affect the texture and flavor, but you can experiment with less sweetness if desired.