Candied Orange Peels

Candied orange peels are a delightful, sweet treat that combines the bright, citrusy flavor of oranges with a sugary coating. They’re surprisingly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are wonderfully versatile—you can use them in baking, as cocktail garnishes, or as a simple snack. Plus, they make great gifts during the holiday season. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn some tips to make the best candied orange peels.

Ingredients for Candied Orange Peels

For approximately 1 cup of candied orange peels, you’ll need:

1. 3 large oranges (choose organic if possible to avoid wax and pesticides on the peels)
2. 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (plus extra for coating)
3. 1 cup water
4. ½ teaspoon salt (optional, helps to mellow the bitter notes in the peels)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Candied Orange Peels

Prepare the Orange Peels

1. Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any residue.
2. Cut off both ends of each orange, then score the skin into quarters (or more sections for smaller pieces).
3. Carefully peel off the skin, including the white pith layer beneath. Try to keep the peels in large pieces for easy handling.

Blanch the Peels

1. Bring a medium pot of water to a boil, add the orange peels, and boil for 2-3 minutes. This process helps reduce the bitterness.
2. Drain the peels and repeat the blanching process 2 more times with fresh water each time.
3. After the third blanching, drain and rinse the peels under cold water.

Prepare the Sugar Syrup

1. In the same pot, combine 1 cup of water and 1 ½ cups of sugar.
2. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Bring the syrup to a gentle simmer.

Candy the Orange Peels

1. Add the orange peels to the simmering sugar syrup.
2. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. The peels are done when they become translucent and the syrup has thickened.
3. Be careful not to overcook, as the syrup can darken and caramelize too much.

Dry and Coat the Peels

1. Use a fork or tongs to remove the peels from the syrup, allowing any excess syrup to drip off.
2. Place the peels on a cooling rack or parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Let them dry for 4-6 hours or overnight if possible.
3. Once dry, toss the peels in extra sugar to coat them for added sweetness and texture.

Tips for Making the Best Candied Orange Peels

1. Use Fresh, Organic Oranges: Organic oranges are ideal since the peels won’t contain pesticides or wax coatings.
2. Don’t Skip Blanching: This step is key to removing the bitterness in the peels, so make sure to boil and rinse them a few times.
3. Save the Syrup: The leftover orange-infused syrup is delicious! Use it to sweeten tea, drizzle over pancakes, or mix into cocktails.
4. Storage: Store your candied peels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge.

Variations and Customizations

1. Dip in Chocolate: Once the candied peels are dry, dip them halfway in melted dark chocolate and let them set. The combination of chocolate and citrus is irresistible.
2. Spice It Up: Add a touch of cinnamon or ground ginger to the sugar coating for a warm, spiced flavor.
3. Try Other Citrus Fruits: This method works well for lemon, lime, or grapefruit peels too.

FAQs

1. Can I Use Other Types of Sugar?

Granulated sugar works best for this recipe, but you can try using a mix of white and brown sugar for a richer flavor.

2. Why Are My Orange Peels Still Bitter?

Blanching helps remove bitterness, so if your peels are still bitter, try blanching them an extra time or two.

3. How Long Should the Peels Dry?

Drying time can vary. They typically take 4-6 hours to dry at room temperature, but you can leave them overnight for a firmer texture.

4. Are Candied Orange Peels Vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products.

5. Can I Freeze Candied Orange Peels?

Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Let them come to room temperature before eating.

Conclusion

Candied orange peels are a delicious and easy treat that offers a burst of citrus flavor with every bite. They’re perfect for holiday gifting, adding to desserts, or enjoying on their own. Once you master the basics, you can experiment with different flavors and coatings to make these citrusy treats truly your own. Enjoy your homemade candied orange peels and all the ways they bring a bright, sweet twist to your favorite recipes!