Candied Orange Slices

These candied orange slices are a delightful treat that doubles as candy or a stunning garnish for cakes and breads. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet snack, their bright flavor and chewy texture make them a unique addition to any dessert spread. This quicker version utilizes the oven to speed up the drying process, ensuring you can enjoy these treats with minimal wait time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, you can create delicious candied orange slices in your own kitchen.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy them as candy, or use them to elevate your baked goods and desserts.
• Great for Gifting: These homemade treats make perfect gifts during holidays or special events.
• Natural Ingredients: Made from fresh oranges and sugar, you know exactly what goes into each slice.
• Long-Lasting: Store them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for weeks!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your candied orange slices, gather all necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skimmer
• Bowl of ice water
• Wire racks
• Cookie sheet
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for blanching the orange slices effectively.
• Skimmer: Helps in safely transferring the blanched oranges to avoid burns.
• Wire racks: Allow air circulation for even drying of the candied slices.

Ingredients

For the Candied Orange Slices

• 3 large navel oranges (or other type of orange)
• 4 cups granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)
• 4 cups water (plus extra for blanching)

How to Make Candied Orange Slices

Step 1: Prepare the Oranges

1. Scrub the peels of the oranges to remove wax and chemicals.
2. Cut crosswise into ⅛-inch (3mm) slices, discarding the ends.

Step 2: Blanch the Orange Slices

1. Blanch the orange slices in a large pot of boiling water for 10 minutes.
2. Use a skimmer to transfer them into a large bowl of ice water to stop cooking.

Step 3: Make the Sugar Syrup

1. Rinse out the pot used for blanching.
2. Dissolve 4 cups of sugar in 4 cups of water and bring it to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer with Syrup

1. Drain the oranges from ice water and add them to the boiling syrup.
2. Return it to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
3. Simmer for 45-60 minutes until peels are translucent, stirring every 15 minutes.

Step 5: Dry in Oven

1. Lay the sliced oranges on wire racks placed over cookie sheets to catch drips.
2. Bake at 175°F for 30 minutes.
3. Coat each piece in granulated sugar before returning them to the oven.
4. Dry for another 1-1½ hours until mostly dry.

Step 6: Final Coating and Storage

1. Coat candied oranges in granulated sugar again once removed from oven.
2. Let cool completely before sealing in an airtight container until ready to use.

Enjoy your homemade candied orange slices as a sweet treat or decorative element!

How to Serve Candied Orange Slices

Candied orange slices are a delightful treat that can elevate various dishes or serve as a sweet snack on their own. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these tasty slices.

As a Topping for Desserts

• Ice Cream: Place candied orange slices atop a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing contrast.
• Cakes: Use them to decorate cakes, adding not just flavor but also visual appeal.
• Yogurt: Mix candied orange slices into Greek yogurt for a healthy snack with a citrusy twist.

In Salads

• Green Salad: Add chopped candied orange slices to mixed greens for an unexpected sweetness.
• Fruit Salad: Combine with other fruits for a colorful and flavorful fruit medley.
• Quinoa Salad: Toss in some slices for a zesty bite in your savory quinoa salad.

As a Snack

• On Their Own: Enjoy them straight from the jar as a sweet treat.
• Cheese Platter: Pair with cheese and crackers for an elegant appetizer option.

In Beverages

• Cocktails: Use candied orange slices as garnishes in cocktails for added flavor and decoration.
• Tea: Float them in hot tea for a hint of sweetness and citrus aroma.

How to Perfect Candied Orange Slices

To achieve the best candied orange slices, consider these tips that will enhance your results.

• Choose Fresh Oranges: Select firm and vibrant oranges for better flavor and texture.
• Control Sugar Levels: Adjust the amount of sugar based on your taste preference; less sugar can yield a more natural flavor.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the simmering process, as overcooking can lead to undesired textures.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking while drying.
• Store Properly: Ensure they are completely cool before sealing them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try infusing the syrup with spices like cinnamon or cloves for added depth.

Best Side Dishes for Candied Orange Slices

Candied orange slices pair well with various side dishes, enhancing both flavor and presentation. Here are some excellent options.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized complements the sweetness of the oranges beautifully.
2. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and nuts creates a light dish that balances the richness of candied oranges.
3. Grilled Chicken: The citrus notes in candied oranges add brightness to grilled chicken, making it more flavorful.
4. Spinach Salad: Combine fresh spinach with nuts and cheese, topped off with candied orange slices for an impressive salad.
5. Basmati Rice: Serve alongside fragrant basmati rice infused with lemon zest to create harmony between flavors.
6. Cheese Board: Pair assorted cheeses with candied oranges on a cheese board for an appealing appetizer option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making candied orange slices can be easy, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are a few to watch out for.

• Skipping the blanching step: Blanching helps remove bitterness from the orange peels. Always blanch your slices for the best flavor.
• Using too much heat: Cooking the syrup at high temperatures can lead to burnt sugar. Keep the heat low and stir regularly to avoid this.
• Not drying thoroughly: If you don’t dry the slices completely, they may become sticky and not last as long. Ensure they are mostly dry before storage.
• Ignoring sugar coating: Coating in sugar is essential for texture and sweetness. Don’t skip this step to enhance flavor and appearance.
• Storing in the wrong container: Use airtight containers for storage to keep your candied orange slices fresh. Avoid containers that allow moisture in.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can last up to 2 weeks in the fridge.

Freezing Candied Orange Slices

• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be frozen for up to 6 months.

Reheating Candied Orange Slices

• Oven: Preheat to 175°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making candied orange slices.

How do I use Candied Orange Slices?

You can enjoy them as candy, use them to decorate cakes, or add them to baked goods for extra flavor.

Can I use other types of oranges?

Yes, any variety of orange works well, such as blood oranges or Cara Cara oranges.

How do I make dried candied orange slices?

Follow the same recipe but extend baking time until completely dry.

What is the best way to store candied orange slices?

Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

These easy candied orange slices are not only delightful treats but also versatile additions to many recipes. You can customize them with spices or use different citrus fruits. Try making your own batch today!