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Simple Candied Orange Slices Recipe

Close-up of four bright orange candied orange slices generously coated in sparkling sugar crystals on a white plate.
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You can make these sweet and tangy candied orange slices at home using fresh oranges. This recipe yields glossy, chewy citrus candy perfect for garnishing cakes, snacking, or giving as homemade gifts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large navel oranges (or best oranges for candying)
  • 3 cups granulated sugar, divided
  • 2 cups water, divided
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • Optional: 4 ounces dark chocolate for dipping
  • Optional: Flaky sea salt for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oranges: Wash the oranges well. Slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Discard the ends.
  2. Blanch the slices: Place the orange slices in a medium saucepan. Cover them with water (about 2 cups). Bring to a boil, then immediately drain. Repeat this blanching process two more times to reduce bitterness.
  3. Make the simple syrup: In the same saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar and 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
  4. Simmer the fruit: Add the blanched orange slices and the lemon juice to the syrup. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for about 45 to 60 minutes. The slices should become translucent and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Cool and soak: Remove the pan from the heat. Let the orange slices soak in the syrup for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to fully absorb the sweetness.
  6. Dry the slices: Remove the slices from the syrup, letting excess drip off. Place them in a single layer on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
  7. Bake to dry: Preheat your oven to the lowest setting (usually 170°F or 75°C). Bake the slices for 1 to 2 hours, flipping them halfway through. You want them to be dry to the touch but still chewy.
  8. Coat (Optional): If you want chocolate dipped candied orange slices, melt the dark chocolate. Dip half of each dried slice into the chocolate and place them back on the wire rack. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt immediately.
  9. Finish: Let the slices cool completely until the chocolate sets or the sugar coating dries. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

  • For a sugar coating instead of drying plain, toss the warm, drained slices in 1 cup of granulated sugar before the drying step.
  • If you are using the leftover syrup, you have a bright citrus recipe base. You can use it as a simple syrup fruit recipe for cocktails or pour it over cakes.
  • For the best visual result, look for firm, brightly colored oranges.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyfelix.com/candied-orange-slices-recipe-easy-homemade/