Description
These delicious Candied Orange Slices are thinly sliced oranges simmered in a simple sugar syrup until translucent and sweet, then dried to perfection. For an optional decadent touch, they can be dipped in rich dark chocolate, creating a beautiful and tasty treat perfect for snacking, garnishing desserts, or gifting.
Ingredients
Oranges
- 2 large oranges (seedless if possible)
Syrup
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
Chocolate Topping (Optional)
- Good quality dark chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate chips (recommended: Guittard extra dark chocolate chips)
Instructions
- Prep Oranges: Wash and scrub the oranges thoroughly to remove any wax. Slice them into thin, even rounds about 1/4 inch thick, and remove any seeds to ensure a smooth candy texture.
- Candy Oranges: In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar fully dissolves. Lay the orange slices in a single layer in the syrup, working in batches if necessary. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the slices for 45 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they become translucent. Keep a close eye on the syrup to prevent it from darkening or burning.
- Dry Slices: Using tongs, transfer the candied orange slices onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing excess syrup to drip off. Dry them at room temperature for 24 hours, rotating occasionally to aid even drying on both sides. Alternatively, you can speed up this process by drying them in a 200°F oven for 1–2 hours, turning them to dry evenly.
- Dip in Chocolate (Optional): Once the orange slices are fully dried, melt the dark chocolate chips. Dip each orange slice halfway into the melted chocolate and place them on parchment paper until the chocolate sets completely.
- Store: Store the candied orange slices in an airtight container at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Choose seedless oranges if possible to avoid removing seeds and to have a smoother candy experience.
- Watch the syrup carefully during simmering to prevent it from burning, which would impart a bitter flavor.
- Drying times can be shortened using a low oven, but room temperature drying provides the best texture and clarity.
- The chocolate dip is optional, but it adds a luxurious flavor contrast to the bright citrus sweetness.
- Store in an airtight container to keep them chewy and fresh longer.
