Candied Orange Peels Recipe
I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

Making candied orange peel is a delightful way to use leftover orange rinds and create a sweet treat. It’s simple, requiring just orange peels, water, and sugar, to turn the bitter rinds into a delicious snack.
You can use candied orange peels in various ways. They make a great garnish for desserts and cocktails or can be enjoyed on their own. Plus, the vibrant color and chewy texture add a fun twist to any dish.
If you’re looking to try something new in your kitchen, candied orange peel is a perfect project. The process is straightforward, and the results are both tasty and versatile.
Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)
Ingredients:
Orange Peels: Make sure to wash the oranges thoroughly before peeling. You can also use grapefruit, lemon, or lime peels as substitutes.
Sugar: Granulated sugar works best. If you want a different flavor, you can use brown sugar or coconut sugar.
Water: Essential for boiling the peels. No substitutes needed here.
Optional:
- Salt: A pinch to balance the sweetness if desired.
- Corn Syrup: For extra shine, add a tablespoon during the last simmer. Honey or agave syrup can be used instead.
Here’s a quick overview:
Ingredient | Substitute Options |
---|---|
Orange Peels | Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime Peels |
Granulated Sugar | Brown Sugar, Coconut Sugar |
Water | N/A |
Salt (Optional) | N/A |
Corn Syrup | Honey, Agave Syrup |
Feel free to mix and match based on what you have at home. Enjoy making your candied orange peels!
Instructions
Prepare the Oranges
Wash and dry the oranges. Slice off the tops and bottoms. Using a paring knife, score the peel from top to bottom, creating four sections per orange. Remove the peel in sections, leaving some of the white pith attached. Cut the peels into ¼-inch wide strips.Blanch the Peels
Place the orange peel strips in a medium saucepan. Cover them with cold water. Set the saucepan over high heat and bring to a boil. Boil for 30 seconds and then drain. Repeat this process two more times to reduce bitterness.Simmer with Sugar
Add 5 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Add the peels, 1 cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes or until the peels are soft but still vibrant.Dry the Peels
Use tongs to transfer the candied peels onto a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. Spread them out evenly. Let them dry for several hours or overnight until they are no longer sticky.Coat with Sugar (Optional)
If you like, you can roll the dried peels in additional granulated sugar to coat them evenly. This adds an extra sweet touch and makes them look pretty.Store the Peels
Store your candied orange peels in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for several weeks and make a great snack or garnish. Enjoy!
Tips, Tricks & Storing
Tips and Tricks
Blanch Peels: Blanching the orange peels helps reduce bitterness. Fill a saucepan with water, bring to a boil, add the peels, and simmer for a few minutes. Repeat this step a few times for best results.
Use Fresh Oranges: Always choose fresh, firm oranges for the best flavor. Organic oranges are a good option since their peels are free from chemicals.
Avoid the Pith: When peeling the oranges, try to avoid the white pith as it can be very bitter. Use a sharp peeler to get just the orange part.
Drying Time: After cooking the peels in syrup, let them dry on a wire rack for a few hours. This makes them less sticky and easier to store.
Coat with Sugar: Rolling the candied peels in granulated sugar after drying adds an extra layer of sweetness and prevents them from sticking together.
Storing
Airtight Container: Store your candied orange peels in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Glass jars work really well.
Cool, Dark Place: Keep the container in a cool, dark place, like a pantry. Avoid storing them in the fridge as they can absorb moisture and lose their texture.
Freezing Option: If you made a large batch and want to store them for a longer time, freezing is an option. Place the peels in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. This keeps them separate and easy to use later on.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Recipe Variations
Classic Candied Orange Peel:
- Ingredients: Orange peels, water, sugar.
- Method: Boil peels, drain, and repeat. Simmer in sugar syrup until tender.
Spiced Candied Orange Peel:
- Ingredients: Orange peels, water, sugar, cinnamon, cloves.
- Method: Follow the classic method but add spices to the sugar syrup for extra flavor.
Chocolate-Dipped Orange Peel:
- Ingredients: Candied orange peels, melted dark or milk chocolate.
- Method: Dip cooled candied peels in chocolate and let harden on parchment paper.
Serving Suggestions
As a Snack:
- Enjoy them straight from the jar for a sweet and zesty treat.
Dessert Garnish:
- Use candied orange peel to decorate cakes, cupcakes, or even ice cream.
In Baking:
- Chop candied peels and mix them into cookies, muffins, or bread for a citrus twist.
Gift Idea:
- Package them in a nice jar with a ribbon for a homemade gift.
Cocktails:
- Add a strip to cocktails like an Old Fashioned or a Mimosa for a flavorful garnish.
Mix and match variations and find your favorite ways to enjoy candied orange peels!