Gourmet Candied Orange Peel

Name: Gourmet Candied Orange Peel
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 1 cup
Ingredients: 4 large oranges; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup water

Highlighted under: Artisan Bakery Recipes

I absolutely adore making gourmet candied orange peel! There's something magical about transforming the vibrant zest of fresh oranges into a sweet, chewy treat. The process may seem daunting at first, but after perfecting my technique, I discovered it's quite straightforward. Plus, the vibrant aroma that fills my kitchen is hard to resist. The perfect combination of sweet and tart makes these treats not just a fantastic snack but also a beautiful addition to desserts or a lovely gift wrapped in a decorative box.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-14T17:06:18.385Z

When I first attempted making gourmet candied orange peel, I was pleasantly surprised by how rewarding it turned out to be. I remember the excitement of watching the peels transform from their bitter state to glistening, sugary delights. One key tip I discovered was soaking the peel in water before cooking; it drastically reduces bitterness while enhancing the flavor of the final product.

Since then, I've experimented with different citrus fruits, finding that lemon and grapefruit work beautifully too. The versatility of this recipe allows me to customize it each time, which guarantees it never gets boring. Plus, using high-quality organic oranges really elevates this treat!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Unique sweet and zesty flavor that brightens up any dessert
Homemade treat that’s perfect for gifting or indulging
Easy to customize with different citrus fruits

Key Techniques for Perfecting Your Candied Orange Peel

To achieve the ideal texture in your candied orange peel, focus on the blanching process. Each blanching session helps to reduce the bitterness of the orange peels, making them more palatable and enhancing their natural sweetness. I recommend not rushing this step; ensure the water is at a vigorous boil when you add the peels, and do not skip the multiple blanching cycles—this is essential for developing that sweet balance.

When cooking the peels in syrup, maintaining a low simmer is crucial. A rolling boil can cause the peels to break apart or become too tough, rather than tender and translucent. Keep an eye on them during the cooking stage and use a candy thermometer if you're unsure. The final result should be peels that shimmer and appear glassy, indicating they have absorbed enough syrup without becoming overly sticky.

Ingredient Insights and Customization

The choice of oranges can significantly influence the flavor of your candied pieces. For a sweeter result, opt for Valencia or Navel oranges, while blood oranges will lend a striking color and tangy flavor profile. If oranges aren't on hand, grapefruits offer a delightful alternative, although they will require adjusting the sugar content to enhance sweetness. Just remember that taste testing along the way is key to finding your preferred balance.

If you want to add a personal twist, consider infusing the syrup with spices such as cinnamon or ginger. Start by adding a stick of cinnamon or a few slices of fresh ginger to the boiling syrup, allowing it to steep for a richer flavor. Just be sure to strain the syrup before adding the peels to keep the texture smooth. You can also sprinkle some flaked sea salt on the final product for a sweet and salty contrast.

Storage and Gift Ideas

Once your candied orange peels are cool and properly sugared, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This makes them not only a fantastic snack but also an excellent option for holiday gifts. Consider layering them in small jars with parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking and to present a beautiful homemade gift.

If you wish to extend their shelf life, you can freeze candied orange peels. Just make sure they are completely dry and sugared before placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for several months this way, allowing you to savor this treat long after making it or share it later as a lovely surprise.

Ingredients

For Candied Orange Peel

4 large oranges
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water

Notes

Make sure to use organic oranges when possible to avoid pesticides.

Instructions

Prepare the Oranges

Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any wax. Cut off the ends and slice each orange into quarters. Remove the pulp from the peel and cut the peel into thin strips.

Blanch the Peels

Place the orange peels in a pot of boiling water. Blanch for 10 minutes, then drain. Repeat this process two more times to reduce bitterness.

Make the Syrup

In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Reduce the heat to a simmer and add the blanched peels. Cook for 45 minutes, or until the peels are translucent.

Dry the Peels

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the peels to a wire rack to cool and dry for several hours.

Coat in Sugar

Once dry, toss the peels in granulated sugar to coat thoroughly. Let them sit for an hour to allow the sugar to adhere.

Enjoy Your Treat!

Serve these candied peels as a snack, or use them to garnish desserts.

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding a splash of rum or vanilla extract to the syrup.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue while making candied orange peel is the peels becoming overly tough or chewy. This usually happens if they are cooked for too long in the syrup. If you find that your first batch didn't achieve the right tenderness, don't fret! You can try briefly boiling them again in fresh syrup for a few minutes to soften them up, checking frequently until you reach the perfect consistency.

Conversely, if your peels are too sticky after coating in sugar, it's likely they weren't dried sufficiently before the coating step. To remedy this, allow them to dry longer on the wire rack or return them to a low oven (around 170°F/75°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help remove excess moisture before tossing them in sugar again.

Serving Suggestions

Candied orange peels are a versatile ingredient that can elevate various dishes. Use them to adorn cakes, cupcakes, or cheesecakes, adding a pop of color and a burst of flavor. You can also chop them finely and mix into oatmeal or yogurt for a sweet breakfast treat. If you're feeling adventurous, incorporate them into savory dishes, such as salads or glazes for pork, creating a delightful contrast.

For a delightful afternoon treat, consider pairing candied orange peels with dark chocolate. Drizzle melted chocolate over the peels for a sophisticated snack or create chocolate-dipped variations for gifting. This combination brings out the complex flavors of both ingredients while providing a sumptuous mouthfeel that everyone will adore.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other citrus fruits?

Yes! Lemon and grapefruit peels work wonderfully for different flavor profiles.

→ How should I store candied orange peels?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

→ Can I dip the peels in chocolate?

Absolutely! Melt dark or white chocolate and dip half of each candied peel for a delightful touch.

→ Is it possible to make this sugar-free?

You can try using sugar alternatives, but the texture may vary.