There’s something undeniably joyful about indulging in a sweet treat you made with your own hands. Imagine walking through your kitchen, the sun streaming in, and the invigorating scent of fresh oranges filling the air. Homemade Candied Orange Peel not only elevates your desserts but also brings a sense of nostalgia, taking you back to warm family gatherings where everything felt perfect, even if just for a moment. This delightful recipe transforms ordinary orange peels into gems that sparkle with sweetness, coaxing out the flavors that nature intended while using ingredients you likely already have on hand. Let’s embrace this warm, comforting culinary journey together!
Why You’ll Love This Candied Orange Peel Recipe
Emotional Need + Daily Struggle
Sometimes life feels a bit mundane, doesn’t it? Amid the everyday rush, we lose sight of simple pleasures, like the zest of freshly peeled oranges or the warmth that home-baked treats can bring. It’s easy to overlook the joy in transformation—a simple orange peel can be the cornerstone of something profoundly delightful. Each strip of candied orange peel carries with it the stories of sun-ripened afternoons, the cheerful chirping of birds outside your window, and that one cherished moment of laughter shared over dessert.
This Dish Solves That
Candied Orange Peel isn’t just a sweet treat; it’s a little bite of happiness wrapped in nostalgia. Picture these golden bits on a cheese platter during your next gathering, adding a lovely citrus zing to your cheeses and charcuterie. Or imagine a warm slice of homemade gingerbread adorned with these enticing strips, comforting you with every bite. Whether tossed into your morning oatmeal or stirred into a rich chocolate dessert, each mouthful of this Candied Orange Peel will remind you to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy life’s sweeter side.
Quick Answer: The easiest way to make Candied Orange Peel creamy and rich is by using a low simmer to create a thick syrup that beautifully coats the peels.
Ingredients Breakdown & Prep Tips
Ingredient List with Suggestions
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful candy:
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| Peel from 2 organic oranges | Choose organic to ensure the best flavor. |
| 3 cups water | |
| 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar |
Prep Method with Sensory Cues
Let’s sprinkle a little love into our kitchen as we make this Candied Orange Peel.
- Begin by washing the oranges and drying them gently with a clean cloth. Feel the texture of the skin beneath your fingers; it holds so much flavor!
- Cut off the ends, then slice down the orange lengthwise to section the outer peel into quarters. Using your fingers, peel away the orange layer, relishing its fresh, zesty aroma.
- Cut the peeled peels into fine strips, placing them into a small-medium pot. Add around 1 1/2 cups of water so that the peels are just covered. Bring this pot to a bubbling boil, and let the peels dance in the heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour the contents of the pot through a strainer, allowing the water to drain away, catching the beautiful orange peels. Rinse them under cold water—a comforting little plunge to wash away some of their bitterness!
- Return the peels to the pot, adding 1 1/2 cups water and 1 1/2 cups sugar. As you bring this mixture to a low simmer, inhale deeply. The sweet scent of oranges fills the air, creating an aroma that feels like a warm embrace.
- Let the orange peels simmer gently for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. Watch as the water-sugar mixture transforms into a thick syrup, and the peels take on a stunning translucent appearance.
- When ready, carefully remove the orange peels from the pot and place them on a cooling tray lined with parchment paper to catch any drips of syrup. It’s like laying them down for a well-earned rest after their flavorful journey. If they stick together, use two forks to gently separate them.
- Let the peels dry for about 24 hours until they no longer feel sticky to the touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, roll them in granulated sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Finally, place the strips into an airtight container for storage, or chop them into small cubes, perfect for baking in seasonal treats like Gingerbread cookies or German Stollen.
You see? The process feels so vibrant and alive.
For more delicious desserts, don’t forget to check out our Cinnamon Roll Muffins or a classic Chocolate Chip Banana Bread!
Avoid These Mistakes
Common Mistakes & Fixes
While making Candied Orange Peel sounds simple, there are a few common hiccups that might occur. Let’s chat about them.
- Overcooking the Peels: If the peels are boiled for too long initially, they can become mushy. Keep an eye on those lovely strips during the boil!
- Using Non-organic Oranges: Non-organic varieties might have residues you don’t want in your sweet treat. Whenever possible, stick with organic oranges for the best flavors and peace of mind.
- Not Straining Properly: Leaving too much water on the peels before the candying process can dilute the syrup. Be sure to let them drain thoroughly before proceeding.
- Skipping the Sugar Roll: If you’re not rolling the peels in additional sugar, they may stick together or not have that delightful shiny finish. Those sugary gems are just as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the taste buds!
Pro Tips to Get It Right
- Infused Flavoring: Consider infusing the syrup with spices like cinnamon or clove for a festive twist. Your Candied Orange Peel will shine even more in holiday dishes!
- Sweetening with Honey: If you want a more complex sweetness, substitute part of the sugar with honey during the simmering stage; it adds depth you’ll adore.
For more tips and a cozy dinner idea, visit our Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta and our delicious Garlic Butter Tilapia.
Serving, Storage & Creative Variations
Best Ways to Serve It
Candied Orange Peel adds a burst of flavor when paired with savory dishes. Picture it mixing into a delightful citrus salad during a family gathering, or how about adorning your holiday cakes? They can be scattered across a luscious white chocolate cheesecake, or even tucked into a warm chocolate loaf for that surprise element.
Storage + Seasonal or Dietary Variations
Store your Candied Orange Peels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. They also freeze beautifully if you want to make a larger batch ahead of time! Just remember … You can stir in dried spices, replace sugar with coconut sugar, or even experiment with lemon or grapefruit peels for a more zesty treat.
To explore more spicy angels to your meal, try our hearty Chicken Fajita Bowl Recipe or maybe our colorful Black Bean Corn Salad.
FAQ SECTION
What oranges are best for making Candied Orange Peel?
Organic navel oranges are best for their thick skin and sweet flavor, making them perfect for candying.
Can I use the orange flesh in recipes?
Absolutely! Use the fresh orange segments in salads, desserts, or even as a refreshing snack while you cook.
How long does Candied Orange Peel last?
Properly stored in an airtight container, they can last about two weeks at room temperature or up to six months in the freezer.
What are some creative ways to use Candied Orange Peel?
They’re wonderfully versatile! Add them to cookies, cakes, or even toss them into your morning yogurt for a delightful citrus touch.
Conclusion
Candied Orange Peel is more than just a treat; it’s an experience filled with memories and joy. So, as you elevate your pastries or sprinkle them as a final touch on a dessert, remember that each piece holds a story. If this dish brings back a memory, pass it on. Someone you love might need it today.
Get inspired by more delightful recipes like our Garlicky Feta Chicken Salad or our Crockpot Beef and Noodles!
Candied Orange Peel
Ingredients
Method
- Wash the oranges and dry them gently with a clean cloth.
- Cut off the ends of the oranges, then slice them lengthwise to section the outer peel into quarters.
- Peel away the orange layer, cut the peels into fine strips, and place them into a pot.
- Add 1.5 cups of water to cover the peels, bring to a boil, and let cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Strain the peels, rinsing them under cold water to wash away some bitterness.
- Return the peels to the pot, adding 1.5 cups water and 1.5 cups sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a low simmer for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Carefully remove the orange peels and place them on a cooling tray lined with parchment paper.
- Let the peels dry for about 24 hours until they are no longer sticky.
- Optional: Roll the peels in granulated sugar for extra sweetness.
- Place the strips into an airtight container for storage, or chop them for use in baking.