Easy Candied Orange Peel Recipe

If you’ve ever wondered how to turn simple orange peels into something truly magical, this candied orange peel recipe is about to become your new favorite kitchen project. I love how it transforms something we usually throw away into a sweet, chewy, citrusy treat that tastes like pure sunshine.

This candied orange peel recipe feels fancy, but it’s actually incredibly easy. You only need a few basic ingredients and a little patience. The result? Beautiful glossy strips that you can dip in chocolate, add to baked goods, or package up as the sweetest homemade gift.

Whether you’re baking for the holidays, decorating cakes, or just craving something sweet with a bright citrus kick, this candied orange peel recipe delivers every single time.

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• Easy Homemade Orange Candy

INGREDIENTS

You only need a few simple ingredients to make this beautiful candied orange peel recipe. I love how minimal and budget-friendly it is!

• 4 large oranges (about 1 ½–2 lb / 700–900 g total)
• 4 cups granulated sugar (800 g), divided
• 2 cups water (480 ml)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (1.5 g) – optional, but it enhances flavor
• Extra ½ cup granulated sugar (100 g) for coating (optional)

✨ Optional for dipping:

• 6 oz dark chocolate (170 g), melted

That’s it! Just oranges, sugar, and water — and you’ll create something absolutely irresistible.

INSTRUCTIONS

Let’s turn those fresh oranges into glossy, sweet perfection. This candied orange peel recipe is simple, and I’ll guide you through every step.

1. Prep the oranges

Wash and scrub the oranges well. Slice off the top and bottom, then score the peel into quarters. Gently remove the peel and slice it into thin strips, about ¼ inch (6 mm) wide.

2. Remove bitterness

Place the peel strips in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, cook for 5 minutes, then drain.
Repeat this process 2 more times. This step softens the peel and removes excess bitterness.

3. Make the syrup

In a clean saucepan, combine 2 cups water (480 ml) and 3 ½ cups sugar (700 g). Add the optional salt if using.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and stir until the sugar fully dissolves.

4. Simmer the peels

Add the drained orange peel strips to the syrup. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 45–60 minutes, until the peels look translucent and glossy.
Do not let the mixture boil rapidly. Keep it at a gentle simmer.

5. Dry the peels

Using a fork or tongs, transfer the peels to a wire rack placed over parchment paper. Let them dry at room temperature for 12–24 hours, until slightly tacky but no longer wet.

6. Coat in sugar (optional)

Roll the dried peels in the remaining ½ cup sugar (100 g) for that classic sparkling finish.

7. Optional chocolate dip

Melt the dark chocolate gently. Dip half of each peel strip into the chocolate and place on parchment paper to set.

Now you have a beautiful batch of homemade candied orange peel ready to enjoy!

TIPS & VARIATIONS

I’ve made this candied orange peel recipe so many times, and these little tips make a big difference!

Choose the right oranges

Use thick-skinned oranges like navel oranges. They’re easier to peel and give you nice, sturdy strips.

Cut evenly

Slice the peel strips evenly so they cook and dry at the same rate. Uneven pieces can turn too soft or too firm.

Keep the simmer gentle

Do not let the syrup boil hard. A gentle simmer keeps the peel tender and glossy instead of tough.

Try other citrus

You can use this same method with:

• Lemons
• Grapefruit
• Blood oranges

Each variation gives a slightly different flavor profile while following the same candied orange peel recipe technique.

Chocolate upgrade

Dip the finished peels in dark, milk, or even white chocolate for an elegant treat. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before the chocolate sets for a gourmet touch.

Storage tips

Store the finished peels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 1 month or freeze for up to 3 months.

SERVING IDEAS

One of the reasons I adore this candied orange peel recipe is how versatile it is. You can dress it up or keep it simple, and it always feels special.

Add to baked goods

Chop the candied peel and fold it into:

• Muffins
• Scones
• Biscotti
• Fruit cakes

It adds a bright, sweet citrus pop that instantly elevates your baking.

Serve as a sweet snack

Dip the peels in chocolate and arrange them on a pretty plate. They make a beautiful after-dinner treat with coffee or espresso.

Package as a homemade gift

Place the glossy strips in a small jar or gift box. Tie it with ribbon, and you have an elegant edible gift for holidays, hostess gifts, or special occasions.

Pair with drinks

Serve this candied orange peel recipe alongside:

• Espresso or cappuccino
• Hot tea
• Sparkling wine
• Dark chocolate desserts

It’s perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or cozy winter baking days when you want something simple but impressive.

FAQs

Here are the most common questions I get about this candied orange peel recipe, answered simply and clearly.

1. How do I store candied orange peel?

Store candied orange peel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate it to keep it fresh longer.

2. Can I freeze candied orange peel?

Yes! This candied orange peel recipe freezes beautifully. Place the peels in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before using.

3. Why does my candied orange peel taste bitter?

Bitterness usually means the peel wasn’t boiled enough times. Make sure you blanch the peels 2–3 times and drain the water each time to remove excess bitterness.

4. Can I use less sugar?

Sugar is essential for this candied orange peel recipe because it preserves the peel and creates the glossy texture. Reducing it too much can affect both flavor and shelf life.

5. How long does it take to dry the peels?

Drying typically takes 12–24 hours at room temperature. The peels should feel slightly tacky but not wet before storing or coating in sugar.

6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. This candied orange peel recipe is perfect for making ahead, especially for holidays or gifting. It actually tastes better after a day or two.

Recipe

Yield: About 2 cups

Candied Orange Peel Recipe

Print

This easy candied orange peel recipe transforms fresh orange peels into sweet, glossy citrus strips perfect for baking, gifting, or snacking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 large oranges (about 1 ½–2 lb / 700–900 g total)
• 4 cups granulated sugar (800 g), divided
• 2 cups water (480 ml)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (1.5 g), optional
• ½ cup granulated sugar (100 g) for coating, optional
• 6 oz dark chocolate (170 g), optional for dipping

Instructions

1. Wash and scrub the oranges well. Slice off the tops and bottoms, score the peel into quarters, remove it, and cut into ¼-inch (6 mm) strips.
   
2. Place the peel strips in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Boil for 5 minutes, then drain. Repeat this blanching process 2 more times.
   
3. In a clean saucepan, combine 2 cups water (480 ml) and 3 ½ cups sugar (700 g). Add salt if using. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
   
4. Add the drained peels to the syrup. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 45–60 minutes, until the peels turn translucent and glossy.
   
5. Remove peels with tongs and place on a wire rack over parchment paper. Let dry at room temperature for 12–24 hours until slightly tacky.
   
6. Roll the peels in the remaining ½ cup sugar (100 g) if desired.
   
7. For chocolate-dipped peels, melt chocolate gently and dip half of each strip. Place on parchment paper and let set completely before storing.

Notes

Use thick-skinned oranges for best results.

Keep the syrup at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil.

Drying time may vary depending on humidity.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 8 Serving Size: About ¼ cup
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 210

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients used.

I truly hope you fall in love with this candied orange peel recipe as much as I have. It’s simple, beautiful, and such a smart way to turn everyday oranges into something elegant and special. Once you make it, you’ll start looking at orange peels in a completely different way!

Whether you dip them in chocolate, fold them into baked goods, or package them up as sweet little gifts, this candied orange peel recipe adds a bright citrus sparkle to everything it touches. It’s perfect for holidays, cozy baking days, or anytime you want a homemade treat that feels impressive but is secretly easy.