Candied Orange Slices Recipe

Candied orange slices are a chewy, sweet treat that’s perfect for adding a pop of citrus flavor to desserts, cocktails, and more. Made with just two ingredients—sugar and oranges—these slices are as versatile as they are delicious. Enjoy them plain, dipped in chocolate, or as an elegant garnish for cakes and tarts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Simple Ingredients: Requires only sugar, water, and oranges.
  2. Versatile: Use for snacks, garnishes, or a sweet addition to savory dishes.
  3. Easy to Store: Keeps well for up to a month, making it great for gifting or meal prep.
  4. Customizable: Add sugar coatings or chocolate dips for extra flair.
  5. Naturally Beautiful: Vibrant orange slices are stunning and eye-catching.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 3 cups (600 grams) white granulated sugar
  • 3 cups (709 ml/24 ounces) water
  • 3 small oranges or tangelos (18–20 slices)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

  1. Add the sugar and water to a large saucepan or 12-inch skillet.
  2. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar completely dissolves.

Step 2: Add the Orange Slices

  1. Slice the oranges into thin, even rounds.
  2. Reduce the heat to medium and add the orange slices to the pan. Ensure the slices fit with minimal overlap.

Step 3: Simmer the Orange Slices

  1. Cook the slices at a gentle simmer for 44–60 minutes, flipping them occasionally with tongs.
  2. The white part of the peel (pith) should become nearly translucent, indicating they’re ready.

Step 4: Dry the Slices

  1. Use tongs to remove the slices from the syrup. Lay them in a single layer on a wire rack.
  2. Let the slices dry at room temperature, uncovered, for 24–48 hours. They will feel tacky but firm, like gummy candy, when ready.

Step 5: Optional Additions

  • Sugar-Coating: Dip the slices in granulated sugar after drying for a frosted appearance.
  • Salt Sprinkle: Add a tiny pinch of salt to enhance the citrus flavor.
  • Chocolate Dip: Once dry, dip half of each slice in melted chocolate for a decadent touch.

Servings and Timing

  • Yield: 18–20 slices
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Drying Time: 1–2 days
  • Total Time: 1 day 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

  • Different Citrus: Use lemons, limes, or grapefruit for variety.
  • Spiced Syrup: Add cinnamon sticks or star anise to the sugar syrup for a warm, spiced flavor.
  • Cocktail Garnish: Use blood oranges for a dramatic, dark-red appearance perfect for cocktails.

Storage

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month, separating layers with parchment paper.
  • Refrigeration: Keeps well in the refrigerator for 1 month.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change.

FAQs

1. Can I use large oranges instead of small ones?

Yes, but you may have fewer slices. Adjust the cooking time slightly as thicker slices may take longer.

2. How do I prevent the syrup from caramelizing?

Keep the heat low and maintain a gentle simmer. If the syrup starts to turn golden, remove it from heat and start over.

3. Can I reuse the leftover syrup?

Absolutely! The syrup can be stored in a jar and used as a sweetener for drinks, glazes, or desserts.

4. Why do my orange slices feel too sticky?

They may need more drying time. Ensure they’re in a single layer and allow an additional 12–24 hours if needed.

5. Can I skip the drying step?

Drying is essential for the proper texture. Without it, the slices will remain wet and overly sticky.

6. Are candied orange slices vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan.

7. How do I ensure even slicing of the oranges?

Use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness.

8. Can I reduce the sugar?

Reducing sugar may affect the syrup’s ability to candy the oranges properly, so it’s not recommended.

9. How do I serve these slices?

Serve them plain, as a garnish on cakes or tarts, or dipped in chocolate for a sweet treat.

10. Can I make this recipe with other types of sugar?

Granulated sugar works best, but superfine sugar can also be used. Avoid powdered sugar or brown sugar.

Conclusion

Candied Orange Slices are a versatile and elegant treat that’s surprisingly simple to make. Their bright flavor and chewy texture make them perfect for snacking, decorating desserts, or adding flair to cocktails. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a sweet, citrusy confection that’s sure to impress. Try them today and savor the taste of homemade candied citrus!

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Candied Orange Slices Recipe

Candied Orange Slices Recipe

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  • Author: Asma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Additional Time: 24–48 hours (drying time)
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 day 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1820 orange slices 1x
  • Category: Dessert, Snack, Garnish
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Global
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Candied Orange Slices are a chewy, sweet treat made with just two ingredients: oranges and sugar. These versatile slices can be enjoyed plain, dipped in chocolate, or used to garnish cakes, cocktails, or savory dishes. With a bright orange flavor and an irresistible texture, they’re a delightful addition to your culinary creations!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (600 g) white granulated sugar
  • 3 cups (709 ml / 24 oz) water
  • 3 small oranges or tangelos (1820 slices)

Instructions

 Prepare the Sugar Syrup:

  1. Combine sugar and water in a large saucepan or 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Stir occasionally as the water heats to ensure the sugar completely dissolves.

2. Cook the Orange Slices:

  1. Reduce the heat to medium once the sugar is fully dissolved.
  2. Add the orange slices, arranging them so there’s minimal overlap.
  3. Simmer gently for 44–60 minutes, turning the slices occasionally. The pith should become nearly translucent.

3. Dry the Orange Slices:

  1. Use tongs to transfer the slices onto a wire rack in a single layer.
  2. Let the slices dry at room temperature for 24–48 hours until tacky but set, resembling gummy candy.

Notes

  • Temperature Control: Maintain a gentle simmer. If the syrup begins to caramelize (turning golden), remove the slices, rinse the pan, and restart with fresh syrup.
  • Optional Coating: After drying for 24 hours, dip the slices in granulated sugar for a frosted look or sprinkle with a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking. Keep at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 1 month.

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