Candied Orange Peel Sweet Citrus Candy

Name: Candied Orange Peel Sweet Citrus Candy
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium oranges; 2 cups sugar; 1 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup sugar

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Candied Orange Peel, as it perfectly balances the natural tartness of oranges with sweetness. This recipe transforms simple orange peels into a delightful treat that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a topping for desserts. I find the process rewarding, and the smell of simmering orange zest fills my kitchen with a wonderful aroma. Plus, it's a fantastic way to reduce food waste while creating something unique and tasty. Give it a try, and you won't be disappointed!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-14T16:42:19.658Z

When I first attempted to make Candied Orange Peel, I was amazed at how something so simple could yield such a vibrant and flavorful candy. The trick lies in the slow cooking process, which allows the orange peels to absorb the sugar syrup and become tender while maintaining their bright burst of citrus flavor. I used a combination of white and brown sugar to get a deep caramel-like taste that pairs beautifully with the orange peel.

At one point, I experimented by adding a hint of lemon zest to the syrup, which enhanced the flavor even further. Each time I make this candy, it becomes a delightful gift for friends and family. The sweet, chewy texture and tangy citrus notes make it hard to resist, and I love sharing this simple yet elegant treat during the holidays.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Unique and vibrant flavor that brightens up any dessert
A delightful way to use orange peels instead of discarding them
Perfect as a sweet treat or added to baked goods for an extra zing

The Art of Blanching

Blanching the orange peels is a crucial step that can greatly influence the final flavor of your candied orange peel. By immersing them in boiling water for about 10 minutes, you effectively remove the bitterness that can sometimes overpower the sweetness. Make sure to watch the time closely; blanching for too long can lead to overly soft peels, compromising their texture when candied. If you notice the peels still taste bitter after blanching, a second blanching can help to further mellow the flavor.

To properly blanch, prepare a bowl of ice water beforehand. Once you remove the blanched peels from boiling water, immediately plunge them into the ice water to stop the cooking process. This shock treatment not only preserves the vibrant orange color but also ensures the peels maintain a slightly crisp texture after being candied, making for a delightful contrast in every bite.

The Secret to a Perfect Sugar Syrup

Creating the sugar syrup is where the magic happens! The combination of sugar, water, and a pinch of salt creates a balanced syrup that helps to draw out the natural flavors of the orange peels. Be sure to stir continuously as you heat the mixture until the sugar completely dissolves; this ensures a smooth syrup without any graininess. A gentle boil (not a rolling boil) is ideal, as it prevents the syrup from caramelizing too quickly, which could affect the sweetness of your final product.

During the simmering process, you’ll notice the peels gradually becoming translucent. This transformation usually takes about 30 minutes, but keep an eye on them. The peels should not only become translucent but also retain some firmness. If overcooked, they can become overly soft and lose their structure. Taking them off the heat at the right moment will ensure you achieve that delightful chewy texture that makes candied orange peel so enjoyable.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Proper storage is key to enjoying your candied orange peels for up to two weeks. Once fully dried, place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Avoid stacking them directly on top of one another, as this can lead to clumping. If you plan to keep them longer, consider refrigerating, though most of the time they can be kept at room temperature in a cool, dry place. For extended storage, you could also freeze them, ensuring they are well-coated with sugar to maintain texture and flavor.

Candied orange peels can be enjoyed on their own as a sweet snack, but their versatility makes them an excellent topping for a variety of desserts. Try adding them to cakes, muffins, or even as a garnish for cocktails. They can also beautifully complement dark chocolate; simply dip the cooled candied peels in melted chocolate and let them set for a decadent treat. The bright citrus flavor paired with chocolate creates an irresistible combination that elevates any dessert.

Ingredients

For Candied Orange Peel

4 medium oranges
2 cups sugar
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt

For Coating

1 cup sugar

Instructions

Prepare the Oranges

Wash the oranges thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, remove the peel in quarters, making sure to leave some of the white pith intact for balance. Cut the peels into strips about half an inch wide.

Blanch the Peels

Place the orange peels in a pot of boiling water and blanch for 10 minutes. This helps remove some bitterness. Drain and set aside.

Make the Sugar Syrup

In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar, 1 cup of water, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

Simmer the Peels

Add the blanched orange peels to the sugar syrup and reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 30 minutes until the peels become translucent.

Coat the Peels

Remove the candied peels from the syrup and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly for about 10 minutes. Once they are slightly tacky, coat them in 1 cup of sugar.

Dry and Store

Let the coated peels dry completely for at least a few hours. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try infusing the sugar syrup with spices like cinnamon or vanilla bean during the simmering process. You can also dip the coated peels in dark chocolate for a decadent treat.

Variations to Try

Once you master the basic recipe, experiment with adding spices to the sugar syrup for a unique twist. A pinch of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract can enhance the flavor profile impeccably. You can also try using different citrus fruits, such as lemons or grapefruits. Each variety will bring its own distinctive taste, allowing for a fun exploration of flavors in your candy-making adventures.

For those looking to reduce sugar content, consider substituting part of the sugar in the syrup with honey or agave syrup. Keep in mind that this may change the final taste and texture slightly, so don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of water to maintain the proper consistency. This substitution can add a natural floral note to the finished product, which pairs exceptionally well with tea or in desserts.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your candied orange peels turn out too sticky, it may be due to insufficient drying time. Make sure they are cooled and dried completely after coating them in sugar. If you encounter overly tough peels, it could be a sign that they were simmered for too long or not blanched adequately. In such cases, you can try soaking them in warm water for a short period before attempting to candy them again, allowing for better texture.

For uneven coating, ensure the peels are just sticky enough when you coat them in sugar; if they are too dry, the sugar won't adhere properly. A light touch of water or a quick reheat in the syrup mid-process can help refresh them. Consistent thickness of the strips also aids in uniform cooking, so be mindful when cutting your orange peels.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other citrus fruits?

Yes, you can use lemon, grapefruit, or lime peels with similar methods. Just adjust the sugar levels to taste.

→ How should I store the candied peels?

Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can last for up to two weeks.

→ Can I freeze candied orange peels?

Yes, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

→ What can I use candied orange peel for?

They can be used in baking, as a decorative garnish for desserts, or enjoyed as a sweet snack.