🍊 Authentic Candied Orange Peel (No Preservatives, No Artificial Color)

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✨ Description

This traditional candied orange peel recipe transforms fresh orange peels into tender, jewel-like citrus bites. The slow simmering and proper blanching remove bitterness while preserving natural citrus flavor. Perfect for snacking, baking, gifting, or dipping in chocolate.

📝 Ingredients (Makes about 2 cups | 6–8 servings)

  • 4 large fresh oranges (preferably organic)
  • 2 cups white granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • Extra sugar for coating (optional)

🥣 Step-by-Step Directions (Tested Method)

Step 1: Prepare the Peels

  1. Wash oranges thoroughly.
  2. Slice off both ends.
  3. Score the peel into 4–6 sections.
  4. Carefully remove the peel, keeping some white pith (removing too much makes them thin and hard).
  5. Slice peels into strips (¼ inch thick).

Step 2: Remove Bitterness (Important Step)

  1. Place peels in a pot and cover with cold water.
  2. Bring to a boil for 5 minutes.
  3. Drain completely.
  4. Repeat this blanching process 2 more times (total 3 times).

👉 This step ensures a balanced flavor — not too bitter.

Step 3: Candy the Peels

  1. In a clean saucepan, combine:
    • 2 cups sugar
    • 1 cup water
  2. Bring to a gentle simmer until sugar dissolves.
  3. Add blanched peels.
  4. Simmer on low heat (uncovered) for 45–60 minutes.
    • Stir occasionally.
    • Syrup will thicken and peels will look translucent.
    • Do NOT let syrup caramelize.

Step 4: Drying

  1. Remove peels using a fork or tongs.
  2. Place on a wire rack lined with parchment paper.
  3. Let dry at room temperature for 12–24 hours.
  4. Toss lightly in sugar (optional) once tacky but not wet.

🫙 Storage

  • Store in an airtight jar.
  • Keeps up to 3 weeks at room temperature.
  • Up to 3 months refrigerated.

🍓 Optional Version: Candied Orange Peel Dipped in Strawberry Syrup

Description

This variation adds a fruity glaze using homemade strawberry syrup — naturally pink, flavorful, and preservative-free.

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh strawberries (chopped)
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 2 tbsp water

How to Make Strawberry Syrup

  1. Combine strawberries, sugar, and water in a small saucepan.
  2. Cook on medium heat for 8–10 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash lightly.
  4. Strain for smooth syrup (optional).
  5. Cool completely.

Dipping Method

  1. Once candied peels are dried, dip halfway into cooled strawberry syrup.
  2. Place on parchment paper.
  3. Let set for 3–4 hours (or refrigerate 30 minutes).
  4. Optional: Roll syrup-dipped side in fine sugar.

Result: A beautiful naturally pink-glazed citrus treat 💕

🍊 Nutritional Value (Approximate Per Serving – 5 pieces)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 110–130 kcal
Carbohydrates 30g
Sugars 24g
Fiber 2g
Fat 0g
Vitamin C ~8% DV
Sodium 0mg

(Values vary depending on sugar coating and peel thickness.)

💡 Pro Tips (From Testing)

✔ Use thick-skinned oranges for better texture
✔ Don’t rush simmering — low and slow is key
✔ Keep peels submerged while cooking
✔ Save leftover syrup for tea or cocktails
✔ For firmer peels, dry 48 hours

If you’d like, I can also give you:

  • Chocolate-dipped version 🍫
  • Spiced (cinnamon-clove) holiday version 🎄
  • Low-sugar version
  • Or a small-batch 2-orange recipe

Just tell me 😊

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