Growing up, my grandmother’s Candied Orange Peel was a fixture in our household during the holiday season. The aroma of the simmering citrus and sugar would waft through the air, instantly transporting me back to her cozy kitchen. As a child, I’d eagerly watch her meticulously peel the oranges, carefully removing every last bit of pith, and then transform those bright orange rinds into shimmering, jewel-like candies. The first time I tasted her homemade Candied Orange Peel, I was hooked – the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a delightful chewiness that lingered on my tongue. To this day, that flavor is so deeply tied to my fondest memories of the holidays and spending time with my loved ones.
Why This Candied Orange Peel Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Candied Orange Peel
Candied Orange Peel is a delightful treat that’s surprisingly simple to make at home, and this recipe will help you achieve that perfect, professional-quality result every time. The key lies in the two-step process of first boiling the orange peels to remove any bitterness, and then simmering them in a sugar syrup until they’re translucent and coated in a shiny glaze. This gentle, slow cooking method ensures the peel retains its fresh, vibrant flavor and a satisfying chew, without any of the sometimes-bitter aftertaste that can plague inferior Candied Orange Peel.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these tantalizing citrus candies, you’ll need just three main ingredients: 3 medium oranges, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of water. The oranges, of course, are the star of the show – their fragrant zest and tart juice are what give Candied Orange Peel its signature flavor. The sugar helps to preserve the peels and create that delectable, shiny glaze, while the water helps to dissolve the sugar into a syrup. With such a simple, straightforward ingredient list, you can rest assured that the true essence of the oranges will shine through in every bite.
Step-by-Step Candied Orange Peel Instructions
Preparing Your Candied Orange Peel
This Candied Orange Peel recipe is a breeze to make, with a total time of just 45 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need a sharp knife, a cutting board, a medium saucepan, and a slotted spoon or tongs to get started. First, we’ll carefully peel the oranges, removing the zest in long strips and avoiding as much of the bitter white pith as possible. Then, we’ll boil the peels to remove any remaining bitterness, before simmering them in a sugar syrup until they’re perfectly candied.
1- Begin by washing the 3 medium oranges and using a sharp knife to carefully peel off the zest in long, thin strips, taking care to avoid the bitter white pith underneath.
2- Place the orange peels in a medium saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and let the peels simmer for 10 minutes to remove any remaining bitterness.
3- Drain the peels in a colander, discarding the water, and then return the peels to the saucepan. Add the 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
4- Allow the peels to simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and the sugar syrup has thickened. You’ll know they’re ready when the peels have a shiny, candied appearance.
5- Use a slotted spoon or tongs to carefully transfer the candied orange peels to a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer.
6- Let the Candied Orange Peel cool completely, then enjoy them as a sweet, citrusy snack or use them to garnish cakes, cookies, and other desserts.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Candied Orange Peel turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Be sure to use fresh, ripe oranges for the best flavor. Avoid any peels with blemishes or discoloration.
- Cutting the peels into thin, uniform strips will help them cook evenly and achieve that signature chewy texture.
- Boiling the peels first is a crucial step to remove any bitterness from the pith, so don’t skip it.
- Keep a close eye on the simmering peels and stir them frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
- Allow the candied peels to cool completely before handling or storing them to ensure they retain their glossy finish.
Serving and Storing Your Candied Orange Peel
Perfect Pairings for Candied Orange Peel
With 24 servings, this batch of Candied Orange Peel is the perfect amount to enjoy on its own as a sweet, citrusy treat, or to use as a garnish or ingredient in a variety of desserts. Try sprinkling the candied peels over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a refreshing snack, or mix them into oatmeal or granola for a burst of flavor. They also make a lovely addition to holiday baked goods like gingerbread, shortbread, or even hot chocolate. For a truly decadent experience, serve the Candied Orange Peel alongside a rich, dark chocolate for an unforgettable flavor combination.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Luckily, Candied Orange Peel is incredibly easy to store and enjoy for weeks to come. Once the peels have cooled completely, you can transfer them to an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer-term storage, place the candied peels in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, simply thaw the peels at room temperature.
If you’d like to get a head start on your holiday baking or gift-giving, this recipe is the perfect make-ahead option. Prepare the Candied Orange Peel up to 1 week in advance and store it as directed above. The peels will retain their bright, fresh flavor and chewy texture, ready to be used whenever you need them.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Candied Orange Peel
Creative Candied Orange Peel Variations
While this classic Candied Orange Peel recipe is a timeless favorite, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on the classic. For a festive touch, try adding a dash of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the sugar syrup. You could also experiment with different citrus fruits, like grapefruit or lemon, for a tangy twist. Dipping the finished candied peels in melted chocolate or rolling them in toasted coconut or chopped nuts adds an extra layer of indulgence. And for a vibrant, colorful presentation, consider dyeing the peels with a few drops of natural food coloring before they fully cool.
Making Candied Orange Peel Diet-Friendly
For those with dietary restrictions, this Candied Orange Peel recipe can be easily adapted to suit your needs. To make a gluten-free version, simply ensure that all of your ingredients are certified gluten-free. For a vegan take, replace the granulated sugar with an equal amount of coconut sugar or maple syrup. And for a low-carb or keto-friendly option, substitute the regular sugar with a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit.
Regardless of any dietary modifications, the basic process of boiling, simmering, and candying the orange peels remains the same. With a little creativity and attention to ingredient swaps, you can enjoy this delightful treat while staying true to your personal dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of citrus fruit besides oranges?
A: Absolutely! While this recipe is specifically for Candied Orange Peel, you can easily adapt it to work with other citrus fruits like grapefruit, lemons, or limes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as some citrus peels may require a bit more or less simmering in the sugar syrup.
Q: How long does the total preparation and cooking process take?
A: From start to finish, this Candied Orange Peel recipe takes just 45 minutes. The prep time is 15 minutes, and the actual cooking time is 30 minutes, for a total of 45 minutes to create this delightful treat.
Q: Can I store the Candied Orange Peel for later use?
A: Yes, Candied Orange Peel keeps very well. Once the peels have cooled completely, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the peels for up to 3 months.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This batch of Candied Orange Peel yields 24 servings, making it the perfect amount to enjoy on its own or to use as a garnish or ingredient in a variety of sweet treats.
Q: What if the peels turn out too bitter or chewy?
A: If the Candied Orange Peel has a bitter aftertaste, it’s likely that you didn’t boil the peels long enough to remove the pith. Try simmering them in water for a bit longer next time. And if the peels turn out too chewy, you may have overcooked them in the sugar syrup – simply reduce the simmering time by a few minutes.
Conclusion
Candied Orange Peel is a classic, versatile treat that deserves a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire. With its irresistible balance of sweet and tart, and its satisfying chewy texture, this homemade version far surpasses anything you’ll find in the stores. By following this simple, time-tested recipe, you can capture the essence of the holidays in every bite. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds (and your loved ones) will thank you. Let me know how your Candied Orange Peel turns out in the comments below – I can’t wait to hear all about your delicious creations!
