Candied Orange Slices: A Sun-Kissed Citrus Candy Recipe You’ll Love Recipe
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4.9 from 25 reviews
Candied Orange Slices are a delightful sun-kissed citrus candy perfect for snacking or decorating desserts. These thinly sliced oranges are simmered in a sweet syrup until translucent and glossy, then dried to achieve a chewy, flavorful treat with optional hints of vanilla and warming spices.
Total Time:7 hours 30 minutes
Yield:12 servings
Ingredients
Fruit
4 fresh oranges (thin-skinned, such as Cara Cara or Navel)
Syrup
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
1 cinnamon stick or star anise (optional)
Instructions
Prepare Oranges: Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any wax or residue on the peel for a clean final product.
Slice Oranges: Cut the oranges evenly into ⅛ to ¼ inch rounds, carefully removing any seeds without breaking the slices.
Remove Bitterness: Place orange slices in a saucepan, cover with water, and simmer for 10 minutes. Drain the water and repeat this step if necessary to reduce bitterness.
Make Syrup: In a separate pan, combine sugar, water, and optional vanilla extract. Simmer gently until the sugar fully dissolves and the syrup becomes clear.
Simmer Orange Slices: Add the orange slices in a single layer to the simmering syrup along with the optional cinnamon stick or star anise. Simmer on low heat for 60 minutes, flipping slices occasionally until they turn translucent and glossy.
Dry the Slices: Use tongs to remove the orange slices and place them on parchment paper or a wire rack. Allow them to dry for 6 hours or overnight to achieve a chewy texture.
Store or Serve: Store candied orange slices in an airtight container. For extra indulgence, dip in melted chocolate before serving if desired.
Notes
Use thin-skinned oranges such as Cara Cara or Navel for the best texture and sweetness.
Removing bitterness may require a second simmering in water before candying the slices.
The optional vanilla and spices add depth and warmth, but can be omitted if you prefer a pure orange flavor.
Drying time can be adjusted based on your preferred chewiness; longer drying yields a chewier candy.
Store candied slices in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to preserve freshness.
Dipping in chocolate complements the citrus flavor and adds richness.
