Description

This Classic Candied Orange Slices recipe provides an easy, homemade way to create sweet, translucent orange slices perfect for snacking, garnishing desserts, or gifting. These candied slices boast a delicate balance of natural citrus flavor and sugary sweetness, achieved by simmering orange rounds in a simple syrup and then drying them to a tender, tacky finish. Optional additions like rolling in sugar or dipping in chocolate allow for elegant variations.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

3 small oranges or tangelos (about 18–20 slices)
3 cups granulated sugar
3 cups water

Instructions

Slice the oranges: Using a sharp knife or mandoline, carefully slice the oranges into ¼-inch thick rounds. This thickness ensures even cooking and creates slices that look beautiful once candied.
Make the sugar syrup: Combine the granulated sugar and water in a medium saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar is fully dissolved and the syrup begins to boil.
Simmer orange slices: Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Arrange the orange slices in a single layer within the syrup. Allow them to simmer for 45 to 60 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure all slices cook evenly, until the peels turn translucent and tender.
Dry the slices: Using tongs, carefully remove the candied orange slices from the syrup and place them on a wire rack in a single layer. Leave them uncovered at room temperature for 24 to 48 hours to dry until they feel tacky but set.
Optional finishing touches: For a classic look, roll the dried slices lightly in granulated sugar to give them a frosted effect. Alternatively, dip them in melted chocolate and sprinkle with flaky sea salt to create a sophisticated sweet-and-salty treat.

Notes

If oranges have seeds, remove them before cooking to avoid bitterness.
Use a mandoline carefully to ensure even slices and avoid injury.
Patience is key during drying—allow full drying time for best texture.
Store candied orange slices in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
They make excellent edible garnishes for cocktails, desserts, or cheese boards.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: candied orange slices, orange candy, homemade candied fruit, citrus candy, sweet orange slices, dried citrus snack