Easy Candied Orange Peel Recipe brings bright citrus flavor together with delicate sweetness in a beautifully chewy, sugar-coated treat. These golden ribbons of orange peel are simmered until tender, then glazed in syrup and rolled in sugar for irresistible sparkle. Perfect for holiday baking, dessert garnishes, or healthy sweet snacks, this recipe turns simple kitchen scraps into gourmet candy.
Once you master this classic technique, you’ll always keep a jar on hand.
Servings – Easy Candied Orange Peel Recipe
Servings: About 2 cups candied peel
Time Required for Easy Candied Orange Peel Recipe
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 45 minutes
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Drying Time: 1 hour
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Total Time: About 2 hours
Ingredients for Easy Candied Orange Peel Recipe
Main Ingredients
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Peels from 4 large oranges (thick-skinned preferred)
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400 g granulated sugar
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500 ml water
Optional Enhancements
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1 vanilla pod or 1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cinnamon stick (optional warmth)
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Extra sugar for coating
Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make Easy Candied Orange Peel Recipe
1. Prepare the Orange Peels
First, slice the orange peels into thin strips, removing most of the bitter white pith. Then place them into a saucepan and cover with cold water.
2. Blanch to Remove Bitterness
Next, bring the peels to a boil, simmer for 5 minutes, then drain. Repeat this process twice more to soften and mellow bitterness.
3. Make the Syrup
Meanwhile, combine sugar and water in a clean saucepan. Heat gently until the sugar fully dissolves, creating a clear syrup.
4. Simmer the Peels
Then add the blanched peels to the syrup along with vanilla or cinnamon if using. Simmer gently for 40–45 minutes until translucent and glossy.
5. Drain and Cool
Next, remove peels with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack or parchment paper to cool slightly.
6. Coat in Sugar
Finally, roll the warm peels in granulated sugar until evenly coated. Allow to dry completely before storing.
Variations of Easy Candied Orange Peel Recipe
Chocolate-Dipped
Dip dried peels in melted dark chocolate for an elegant dessert treat.
Mixed Citrus
Use lemon, grapefruit, or lime peels for colorful variety.
Spiced Version
Add cloves, star anise, or cardamom to the syrup for warm flavor.
Honey Sweetened
Replace half the sugar with honey for floral sweetness.
Low-Sugar Style
Lightly glaze without sugar coating for softer candied peel.
Tips for Perfect Results
Use Thick Skins
Thick-skinned oranges produce chewy, juicy candy.
Don’t Skip Blanching
This step removes bitterness and improves texture.
Gentle Simmer
Low heat prevents burning and ensures syrup absorption.
Dry Thoroughly
Proper drying keeps peels from sticking together.
Storage
Store in airtight container for up to 3 weeks at room temperature.
Why Candied Orange Peel Is So Special
Easy Candied Orange Peel Recipe stands out for its balance of citrus brightness and caramel sweetness. The slow simmer allows syrup to penetrate the peel, creating glossy translucent ribbons bursting with flavor. Furthermore, these treats add elegance to baked goods, cocktails, and desserts while reducing food waste.
Additionally, homemade versions taste far fresher than store-bought.
Final Thoughts
Easy Candied Orange Peel Recipe is a timeless kitchen classic that transforms everyday oranges into jewel-like sweets. With minimal ingredients and a simple process, you can create a gourmet snack perfect for gifting, baking, or enjoying straight from the jar.
