Candied Orange Slices

Prep Time: ~10 minutes | Cook Time: ~45–60 minutes | Total Time: ~1–1 hr 10 min (including cooling) | Yield: ~2–3 cups Introduction Candied Orange Slices are tender, translucent citrus rounds simmered in a sweet syrup and dried until delightfully chewy. These vibrant, fragrant pieces are great as a sweet

Prep Time: ~10 minutes | Cook Time: ~45–60 minutes | Total Time: ~1–1 hr 10 min (including cooling) | Yield: ~2–3 cups

Introduction

Candied Orange Slices are tender, translucent citrus rounds simmered in a sweet syrup and dried until delightfully chewy. These vibrant, fragrant pieces are great as a sweet snack, holiday garnish, cocktail decoration, or dessert topping.

Why You’ll Love This Treat

Bright, citrusy flavor with a sweet finish
Beautiful translucent appearance
Great for decorating cakes, trimming charcuterie boards, or gifting
Simple ingredients and straightforward method

Ingredients You’ll Need

3–4 medium oranges
2 cups granulated sugar (for syrup)
1 cup water (for syrup)
Optional additional sugar for coating

Flavor Profile

These candied slices balance zesty orange flavor with concentrated sweet syrup. The peel adds gentle bitterness that contrasts with the sugary coating, making them irresistible and versatile — sweet enough for desserts but flavorful enough to enjoy on their own.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Orange Slices

Wash the oranges well. Slice them into ¼-inch rounds, removing seeds as you go.

2. Make the Simple Syrup

In a wide, shallow saucepan, combine water and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

3. Simmer the Slices

Gently add the orange slices into the syrup in a single layer. Reduce heat to low so the syrup barely simmers. Cook for 45–60 minutes, spooning syrup over the tops periodically, until the slices turn translucent and the rind is tender but not falling apart.

4. Drain & Dry

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the slices to a cooling rack set over a sheet pan or parchment paper. Let them cool and dry for 1–2 hours, or until the syrupy stickiness subsides.

5. Optional Sugar Coating

Once tacky but not wet, you can lightly roll each slice in sugar for a crystallized finish. Shake off excess sugar.

6. Final Drying

Allow the sugared slices to rest at room temperature until completely dry on the outside.

Tips for Best Results

Slice oranges uniformly so they candy evenly.
Keep the syrup at a gentle simmer — boiling can break the slices apart.
If the syrup looks too thin, simmer a bit longer before adding the fruit.
Drain well to avoid syrup pooling on your drying surface.

How to Serve

Serve candied orange slices as a sweet snack, a garnish for cakes or cupcakes, a topper for ice cream, or a festive accent on cheese boards. They also make pretty cocktail garnishes.

Storage & Freshness

Store cooled, dry candied orange slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1–2 weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate and separate layers with parchment.