Candied Orange Slices: A Sun-Kissed Citrus Candy Recipe You’ll Love Recipe
Candied Orange Slices are a delightful sun-kissed citrus candy that combines the natural sweetness and tartness of fresh oranges with a glossy, translucent sugar coating. This easy-to-make treat can be enjoyed as a snack, dessert garnish, or dipped in chocolate for an extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 7 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Fruit:
- 4 fresh oranges (thin-skinned, such as Cara Cara or Navel)
Syrup:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 cinnamon stick or star anise (optional)
Instructions
- Wash Oranges: Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any wax or residue from the skin.
- Slice Oranges: Slice the oranges evenly into 1/8–1/4 inch rounds and gently remove any seeds from the slices.
- Simmer to Remove Bitterness: Place the orange slices in a saucepan, cover them with water, and simmer for 10 minutes to reduce bitterness. Drain the water and repeat this step if desired for milder bitterness.
- Prepare Sugar Syrup: In another pan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Heat gently while stirring until the sugar dissolves completely and the syrup becomes clear. Add cinnamon stick or star anise if using, to infuse flavor.
- Cook Orange Slices in Syrup: Add the orange slices in a single layer to the syrup. Simmer on low heat for 60 minutes, flipping the slices occasionally to ensure even cooking, until they are translucent and glossy.
- Dry the Slices: Remove the candied orange slices with tongs and place them on parchment paper or a wire rack. Allow them to dry for 6 hours or overnight if you prefer a chewier texture.
- Store or Serve: Store the dried candied orange slices in an airtight container. Optionally, dip them in chocolate for a delicious treat.
Notes
- Use thin-skinned oranges like Cara Cara or Navel for the best texture and flavor.
- Simmering the slices in water before candying helps reduce bitterness from the pith.
- Drying time can be adjusted based on desired chewiness; longer drying results in a chewier candy.
- If cinnamon stick or star anise are used, remove them before cooking the orange slices in syrup to avoid overpowering flavor.
- Store candied slices in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 2 weeks.
- For an extra touch, dip dried candied slices halfway in melted dark or white chocolate and let cool until set.
