How to Make Candied Orange Peel Recipe

Candied orange peel is a delightful treat that combines the bold, zesty flavor of orange with the sweetness of sugar, creating the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. This homemade candy is perfect as a snack on its own, used as a garnish for cakes, or even as a unique homemade gift.

The process of making candied orange peel is surprisingly simple and requires only a few basic ingredients. Whether you want to enjoy it as a snack or use it in your baking, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to achieve the perfect chewy, sweet, and citrusy treat. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this irresistible candy at home!

What is Candied Orange Peel?

Candied orange peel is made by cooking the outer peel of oranges in sugar syrup, which transforms the naturally bitter peel into a sweet, flavorful snack or garnish. The citrus peel is first softened in water, then cooked in a sugar syrup until it becomes translucent and tender, followed by rolling it in sugar for an added sweet touch.

This treat has a long history, as it was often used as a preserve or candy in various cultures, offering a way to preserve the essence of fresh oranges for longer periods. While often eaten on its own, candied orange peel can be added to chocolate, mixed into cookies, or even paired with a glass of wine for an elegant snack.

Ingredients for Candied Orange Peel

To make candied orange peel at home, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

1. Oranges: Choose organic, unwaxed oranges for the best results. The peel is the most important part of this recipe, so high-quality fruit will ensure a better flavor and texture.
   
2. Sugar: Granulated sugar is used both in the syrup and for coating the peels to give them a sweet, crystallized texture.
   
3. Water: This is used to cook the orange peels and make the syrup.
   
4. Optional: A pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and a touch of vanilla or cinnamon for extra flavor if you prefer a spiced version.

That’s it! With these simple ingredients, you can create a homemade treat that’s as delicious as it is versatile.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Candied Orange Peel

Making candied orange peel is a straightforward process. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch of sweet, citrusy delights ready in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Orange Peels

Start by washing the oranges thoroughly to remove any dirt or wax from the skin. Since you’ll be using the peel, it’s important to ensure the oranges are as clean as possible.

1. Cut off both ends of each orange.
   
2. Score the peel vertically into 4-6 sections, from top to bottom.
   
3. Gently peel off the skin in large sections. Try to keep the peel as intact as possible. The white pith inside the peel is bitter, so it’s best to remove as much of it as you can.
   

Now that the peel is ready, cut it into strips, about 1/4 inch wide. You can make them thinner or thicker, depending on your preference.

Step 2: Boil the Orange Peels

In a medium saucepan, place the strips of orange peel and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and simmer the peels for about 10 minutes. This step helps remove some of the bitterness from the orange peel.

After simmering, drain the water and repeat the process 2-3 more times, changing the water each time. This helps remove most of the bitterness from the peel, leaving you with a sweeter, milder taste.

Step 3: Make the Sugar Syrup

Now that your orange peel is softened and ready, it’s time to make the sugar syrup that will candy the peel.

1. In a clean saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water.
   
2. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved completely, creating a simple syrup.
   
3. Add the pre-boiled orange peel strips into the syrup. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for about 45 minutes to an hour. Stir occasionally to prevent the peels from sticking or burning.

The peel should become translucent and glossy as it cooks. Be patient – this is the step where the peel absorbs the sugar syrup and becomes tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Dry the Candied Orange Peel

Once the peel has absorbed the syrup and become translucent, it’s time to remove it from the syrup.

1. Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the orange peel strips from the syrup and place them onto a wire rack or parchment paper to cool.
   
2. Let the peel dry for at least 12 hours, or until it is no longer sticky to the touch. This drying process helps the sugar coating set and ensures the candy won’t be too soft.

Step 5: Coat the Candied Orange Peel in Sugar

Once the orange peel has dried and is no longer sticky, it’s time to add a finishing touch: the sugar coating.

1. Place some granulated sugar in a shallow dish or bowl.
   
2. Roll each piece of candied orange peel in the sugar until it is completely coated. The sugar adds an extra layer of sweetness and gives the peel its signature sparkling look.

If you prefer a less sweet version, you can skip this step and simply let the peels dry naturally. However, the sugar coating helps preserve the peel for longer and adds a delightful crunch.

Step 6: Enjoy or Store

Your homemade candied orange peel is now ready to enjoy! You can eat it as a snack, use it as a topping for cakes, ice cream, or even dip it in chocolate for an extra special treat. It’s also a fantastic addition to holiday gift baskets, wrapped in cellophane or stored in a jar for a thoughtful homemade gift.

If you want to store your candied orange peel for later, place it in an airtight container and keep it in a cool, dry place. It will last for up to a month, or even longer if you refrigerate it.

Tips for Perfect Candied Orange Peel

• Use Organic Oranges: Since you’ll be using the peel, it’s important to choose organic oranges that haven’t been treated with pesticides or wax.
  
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet candy, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the syrup or skip the sugar coating at the end.
  
• Spices and Flavor Additions: You can add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla to the syrup for extra flavor. A little bit of ginger or even some cloves can also give the candy a spiced twist.
  
• Use the Leftover Syrup: Don’t throw away the leftover sugar syrup! It makes a delicious addition to cocktails, iced tea, or even drizzled over pancakes or waffles.

How to Use Candied Orange Peel in Recipes

Candied orange peel isn’t just a snack – it can be used in a variety of ways to enhance your cooking and baking. Here are some ideas:

1. Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Peel: Melt your favorite chocolate and dip the candied orange peel into it for a decadent treat.
   
2. Baking: Chop the candied peel and add it to cookies, cakes, or bread for a burst of citrus flavor.
   
3. Cocktails: Use it as a garnish for cocktails like martinis, whiskey sours, or champagne.
   
4. Garnish: Use candied orange peel to garnish salads, ice cream, or even cheese boards for a touch of elegance and flavor.

Conclusion

Making candied orange peel at home is a simple and rewarding process that results in a delicious treat with endless possibilities. Whether you enjoy it as a snack or use it to enhance your cooking, homemade candied orange peel is a wonderful way to bring the vibrant flavors of citrus to your kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any extra oranges you might have lying around.

With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a sweet, zesty treat that’s sure to impress. So, grab some oranges, follow the steps, and start enjoying the perfect homemade candied orange peel today!