Description
Candied Orange Slices are a visually stunning and flavorful treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. These sweet, tangy, and slightly bitter slices are perfect for garnishing cakes, cocktails, or enjoying as a zesty, chewy snack. They store well and can be customized by coating with sugar or dipping in chocolate, making them ideal for gifts, dessert décor, or festive occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 large oranges (Navel or Valencia), washed
- 2 cups granulated sugar (for syrup)
- 1 cup water
- Additional granulated sugar for coating (optional)
- Dark or white chocolate for dipping (optional)
- Optional spices: 1 cinnamon stick or 2-3 whole cloves (for syrup, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oranges: Wash the oranges thoroughly and slice them into ⅛ to ¼ inch thick rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline for uniformity. Remove any seeds carefully and discard the ends.
- Make the Syrup: In a large skillet or wide saucepan, combine 2 cups of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture becomes a clear syrup.
- Simmer the Orange Slices: Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and arrange the orange slices in a single layer in the syrup. If using, add a cinnamon stick or cloves now. Simmer gently for 45 to 60 minutes, flipping the slices every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking and translucency.
- Dry the Slices: Using tongs, transfer each slice to a wire rack placed over parchment paper. Allow them to dry at room temperature for 24 hours until tacky but no longer wet.
- Add Optional Sugar Coating: Once dried, toss the slices in granulated sugar for added sparkle, or dip halfway in melted dark or white chocolate for a decadent touch. Alternatively, leave them plain.
- Store and Serve: Store the candied orange slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, layering with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Use as garnish for cakes, cupcakes, cocktails, or enjoy as a sweet, chewy snack.
Notes
- Use a mandoline slicer to ensure thin, uniform slices that candy evenly and look attractive.
- Simmering time is crucial for tender, translucent slices.
- For extra sparkle, toss dried slices in granulated sugar or brush with light corn syrup before drying.
- Store slices in a single layer separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Adding cinnamon sticks or cloves to the syrup infuses a warm, spiced flavor.
- Candied slices can be dipped in chocolate for a gourmet variation.
- Not recommended to freeze as it affects texture and appearance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert Garnish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: candied orange slices, candied citrus, orange garnish, cocktail garnish, dessert decoration, homemade candy, citrus candy
