These oranges come out soft and chewy and make for an irresistible snack on their own or make for gorgeous gifts when bagged and tied up with a ribbon.

Candied Oranges can be served glossy, sugared, or covered in chocolate. Be sure to check out the notes for more tips and hints for these citrus snacks.

Candied Oranges
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Candied Oranges

Course: SnacksDifficulty: Medium
Cook time

40

minutes
Dry time

1

hour 
Total time

1

hour 

50

minutes

These candied oranges can be covered in chocolate, wrapped in cellophane baggies as gifts, or eaten by themselves as a sweet and chewy citrus snack.

Ingredients

  • 3 Oranges -I used Navel

  • 2 cups Sugar

  • 1 cup Water

  • Extras

  • 1 Bowl of Ice Water

  • Candy Thermometer

  • Cooling Rack

Directions

  • Slice the oranges
    -Slice the oranges about 1/8 of an inch thick and discard the ends.
    If your slices are too thick they will take longer to dry. Too thin and the slices may not hold their shape. I prefer to use a mandolin for slicing so each slice is uniform in thickness.
  • Make the simple syrup
    – Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan, over medium heat, until the mixture is about 220° F
    Stirring occasionally.
  • Pre-boil orange slices
    – While the simple syrup is warming up, boil the orange slices in a separate pot of water for 2 minutes. Remove the slices and place them in the bowl of ice water to prevent overcooking.
    -Do not skip this important step! It helps remove the bitterness in the orange peel, making the rind just as enjoyable as the center.
  • Boil orange slices
    -Once the simple syrup has reached 220° F and all of the sugar has dissolved add the orange slices into the syrup. Try to keep them from overlapping too much. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the slices for 40-60 minutes, or until the rinds are slightly translucent.
    -Stir the slices every 10-15 minutes to ensure all the oranges are evenly coated.
  • Allow orange slices to dry
    – Remove the orange slices from the syrup and lay them over a cooling rack to dry for at least an hour, but I prefer to let mine sit overnight. Lay parchment paper under your cooling rack for easy clean up.

Notes

  • Try this with different orange variations or other citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and grapefruit.
  • These slices make great use as garnish for drinks and desserts.
  • Cover or drizzle your candied orange slices in melted chocolate or dust them in sugar for an even sweeter finish.
    -The sugar should be added WHILE allowing slices to completely dry.
    -The chocolate should be added AFTER allowing slices to completely dry and harden.
  • These are best stored in an air-tight container on the counter top.