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Candied Orange Peel

May 11, 2026
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Homemade candied orange peel in a glass jar for baking and snacking.

Candied Orange Peel is a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor to your day! It’s easy to make and perfect for snacking, decorating desserts, or even gifting. This recipe transforms simple orange peels into sweet, chewy morsels that everyone will love. With a little patience, you can have homemade Candied Orange Peel that elevates any dessert or snack!

Why You’ll Love This Candied Orange Peel

  • Bursting with vibrant orange flavor.
  • Quick and easy to prepare.
  • Ideal for meal prep and gifting.
  • Versatile for snacking or as a dessert decoration.
  • Perfectly chewy, with a delightful sugar coat.

Candied Orange Peel

Ingredients Needed

  • Oranges
    • 4 large oranges
  • Sugar
    • 2 cups granulated sugar
    • 1/2 cup additional sugar for coating
  • Water
    • 1 cup water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1.

Wash the oranges thoroughly and peel them, making sure to keep the peel in large strips.

2.

Use a knife to carefully remove the bitter white pith from the inside of the orange peels.

3.

Cut the peels into thin strips.

4.

In a saucepan, combine the water and 2 cups of granulated sugar, then bring to a boil.

5.

Add the orange peels to the sugar syrup and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the peels are translucent.

6.

Remove the peels from the syrup and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

7.

Let them cool for a few minutes, then roll the peels in the additional sugar to coat.

8.

Allow the coated peels to dry at room temperature for several hours.


Candied Orange Peel

Serving Suggestions Candied Orange Peel

  • Chop and sprinkle over yogurt or oatmeal.
  • Use as a garnish for cakes or pastries.
  • Add to a cheese platter for a sweet contrast.
  • Serve with dark chocolate for a decadent treat.
  • Stir into cocktails for a zesty twist.

Tips for Success Candied Orange Peel

  • Choose thicker-skinned oranges for better peels.
  • Keep an eye on the simmering process to prevent burning.
  • Allow the peels to dry completely for the best texture.
  • Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Variations

Here are a few easy ways to change it up:

  • Add a splash of vanilla extract to the sugar syrup for extra flavor.
  • Experiment with other citrus peels like lemon or grapefruit.
  • Dip in dark or white chocolate after drying for a gourmet treat.

Candied Orange Peel

Follow us on Pinterest for more cozy ideas.

What can I use candied orange peel for?

Candied orange peel is great for snacking, as a dessert topping, or for adding to recipes like cookies and cakes.

How long does candied orange peel last?

When stored in an airtight container, it can last for several weeks at room temperature.

Can I make candied orange peel in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and it keeps well for future use.

Is it possible to make candied orange peel without sugar?

Sugar is essential for the candying process, but you can experiment with sugar substitutes if needed.

Candied Orange Peel

A delightful treat that transforms simple orange peels into sweet, chewy morsels, perfect for snacking or decorating desserts.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 55

Ingredients
  

Fruits
  • 4 large Oranges Choose thicker-skinned for better peels.
Sugar
  • 2 cups granulated sugar Plus 1/2 cup for coating.
Miscellaneous
  • 1 cup water

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Wash the oranges thoroughly and peel them, making sure to keep the peel in large strips.
  2. Use a knife to carefully remove the bitter white pith from the inside of the orange peels.
  3. Cut the peels into thin strips.
Cooking
  1. In a saucepan, combine the water and 2 cups of granulated sugar, then bring to a boil.
  2. Add the orange peels to the sugar syrup and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the peels are translucent.
  3. Remove the peels from the syrup and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Finishing Touches
  1. Let them cool for a few minutes, then roll the peels in the additional sugar to coat.
  2. Allow the coated peels to dry at room temperature for several hours.

Notes

Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Allow the peels to dry completely for the best texture.
Written By

Stephanie Mitchell

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