You can make glossy, chewy candied orange slices using this simple recipe. These sweet and tangy citrus confections are perfect for garnishing cakes, decorating cocktails, or enjoying as an edible gift.
Author:jesscarter
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:1 hour 15 min
Total Time:9 hours 35 min
Yield:About 40 slices 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Simmering
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
Scale
3 small oranges or tangelos
3 cups water
3 cups white granulated sugar
Optional: 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate for dipping
Optional: Flaky sea salt for finishing
Instructions
Prepare the oranges: Wash the oranges well. Slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Discard the ends.
Blanch the slices: Place the orange slices in a saucepan and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil, then immediately drain the slices. Repeat this boiling and draining process two more times to reduce the bitterness of the pith.
Make the syrup: In the same saucepan, combine the 3 cups of water and 3 cups of sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
Simmer the oranges: Add the blanched orange slices to the sugar syrup. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook slowly for about 1 hour, or until the slices look translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cool and soak: Remove the pan from the heat. Let the orange slices soak in the syrup overnight, or for at least 8 hours, to fully absorb the sugar.
Drain the slices: Remove the slices from the syrup using a slotted spoon. Let excess syrup drip off.
Dry the slices: Place the slices in a single layer on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Allow them to dry at room temperature for 12 to 24 hours until they feel tacky but not wet.
Optional chocolate dip: If desired, melt the chocolate in a double boiler or microwave. Dip half of each dried slice into the melted chocolate. Place them back on the wire rack. Sprinkle immediately with flaky sea salt, if using.
Final dry: Let the chocolate set completely before serving or storing.
Notes
For the best results, use firm, brightly colored oranges.
You can use the leftover sugar syrup to sweeten tea or make simple syrup for cocktails.
These preserved orange slices store well in an airtight container at room temperature for several weeks.
If you want a quicker dry time, you can bake them in a very low oven (175°F) for 1 to 2 hours, checking frequently.