Candied orange slices are a delightful treat that brings brightness and sweetness to any occasion. Their vibrant color and zesty flavor make them perfect for garnishing desserts or enjoying as a standalone snack. Whether you’re adding a touch of elegance to your cheese platter or looking for a nostalgic bite, these homemade candied oranges are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up these treats in no time.
• Versatile Use: Ideal for garnishing cakes, enhancing cheese boards, or enjoying as a sweet snack on their own.
• Customizable Flavor: Infuse the syrup with spices or try other citrus fruits for unique variations.
• Natural Sweetness: Made with fresh oranges, these slices offer a healthier alternative to processed candies.
• Great for Gifting: Beautifully packaged candied orange slices make thoughtful homemade gifts.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure your candied orange slices turn out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pot
• Saucepan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Pot: Used to boil the orange slices, ensuring they soften properly before candying.
• Saucepan: Essential for preparing the sugar syrup that gives the slices their sweet coating.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing oranges easy and precise, helping maintain even thickness.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking while cooling the candied slices, making cleanup easier.
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Ingredients

For the Candied Orange Slices

• 4 fresh oranges
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Candied Orange Slices

Step 1: Prepare the Oranges

Wash the oranges thoroughly under running water. Slice them into thin rounds (about 0.25 inches thick) and remove any seeds.

Step 2: Boil the Slices

Place the sliced oranges in a pot of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Create the Syrup

In another saucepan, combine sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Heat this mixture until it becomes clear and bubbly.

Step 4: Candy the Oranges

Transfer the boiled orange slices into the syrup. Simmer on low heat for about 1 hour until they become translucent.

Step 5: Cool Down

Remove the candied orange slices from the syrup and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets. Allow them to cool until set.

Step 6: Serve or Store

Enjoy your homemade candied orange slices as desired! You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for later use.

How to Serve Candied Orange Slices

Candied orange slices are versatile treats that can enhance a variety of dishes or be enjoyed on their own. Here are some creative ways to serve these delightful slices.

As a Dessert Garnish

• Top your favorite cakes or cupcakes with candied orange slices for a burst of color and flavor.
• Use them as a stunning decoration for tarts and cheesecakes, adding visual appeal and taste.

With Cheese Platters

• Pair candied orange slices with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a sweet and savory combination.
• Add them to a charcuterie board alongside nuts and dried fruits for an impressive presentation.

In Salads

• Toss candied orange slices into green salads to add sweetness and a citrusy kick.
• Combine them with spinach, walnuts, and feta cheese for a refreshing salad option.

As a Standalone Snack

• Enjoy candied orange slices on their own as a sweet treat or energy booster throughout the day.
• Package them in small bags for convenient snacking on-the-go.

How to Perfect Candied Orange Slices

Mastering the art of making candied orange slices ensures they come out perfectly every time. Here are some helpful tips to consider.

• Choose fresh oranges: Select firm, ripe oranges for the best flavor and texture in your candied slices.
• Slice uniformly: Cut the oranges into even rounds to ensure they cook evenly in the syrup.
• Control syrup temperature: Keep the syrup at a gentle simmer to avoid burning while allowing the flavors to infuse properly.
• Allow proper cooling: Let the slices cool completely on parchment paper to achieve that perfect chewy texture without sticking together.
• Experiment with flavors: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the syrup for additional depth of flavor in your candied oranges.

Best Side Dishes for Candied Orange Slices

Candied orange slices pair wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing meals with their vibrant flavor. Here are some delicious options.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers roasted until caramelized complement the citrus notes perfectly.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and nuts provides a wholesome base that balances out the sweetness.
3. Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside grilled chicken marinated in citrus juices for an exciting flavor contrast.
4. Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf with dried fruits harmonizes beautifully with candied orange slices.
5. Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad topped with nuts, berries, and candied oranges creates an invigorating dish.
6. Cheese Biscuits: Light, flaky cheese biscuits offer a savory bite that pairs well with the sweetness of the oranges.
7. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash creates an indulgent side that complements the bright flavors of candied orange slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making candied orange slices, avoiding common mistakes can help achieve the best results. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Boldly slice your oranges: Cutting oranges too thick can prevent them from properly absorbing the syrup and achieving that desired chewy texture. Aim for even, thin slices about 0.25 inches thick.
• Avoid boiling too long: Overboiling the orange slices can make them mushy instead of tender. Simmer them just until softened, about 10 minutes, to maintain their structure.
• Don’t skip the cooling stage: Allowing the candied slices to cool on parchment paper is crucial. Skipping this step will lead to sticky slices that clump together instead of being beautifully separate.
• Use fresh ingredients: Stale sugar or old oranges can affect flavor and texture. Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best candied orange slices.
• Be cautious with syrup thickness: If the syrup is too thin, it won’t adequately coat the oranges. Ensure it reaches a clear, bubbly state before adding your fruit.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Candied orange slices can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing Candied Orange Slices

• Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag to prevent freezer burn.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure they are fully cooled before freezing.

Reheating Candied Orange Slices

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes to refresh their texture.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat in 10-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat for a few minutes, turning gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Candied Orange Slices?

Candied orange slices are thinly sliced oranges boiled in sugar syrup until they become sweet and chewy. They make a delightful snack or garnish for desserts.

How long do Candied Orange Slices last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, candied orange slices last up to two weeks at room temperature or up to three months if frozen.

Can I use other fruits besides oranges?

Yes! You can experiment with other citrus fruits like lemons or grapefruits for unique flavors and variations on candied fruit.

Are there any tips for enhancing flavor?

Consider infusing your syrup with spices like cinnamon or ginger while cooking the oranges. This adds depth and warmth to your candied orange slices.

Final Thoughts

Candied orange slices are a versatile treat that brings sweetness and brightness to any dish. They’re perfect as standalone snacks or as garnishes for desserts and cheese platters. Feel free to customize your recipe by adding spices or experimenting with different citrus fruits!

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Candied Orange Slices

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• Author: Madison
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

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Description

Candied orange slices are a delightful treat that adds a burst of sweetness and vibrant color to any occasion. Perfect for garnishing desserts, enhancing cheese platters, or simply enjoying as a sweet snack, these homemade treats offer a healthier alternative to processed candies. With their zesty flavor and chewy texture, candied orange slices are not just delicious; they also make beautiful gifts when packaged nicely. This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to create these sugary delights in no time, and you can even customize the flavor by infusing the syrup with spices or trying different citrus fruits.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 fresh oranges
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Wash the oranges thoroughly and slice them into thin rounds (about 0.25 inches thick), removing any seeds.
2. Boil the sliced oranges in a pot of water over medium heat for 10 minutes until softened.
3. In another saucepan, combine sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Heat until the mixture becomes clear and bubbly.
4. Add the boiled orange slices to the syrup and simmer on low heat for about 1 hour until translucent.
5. Place the candied slices on parchment-lined baking sheets to cool and set.
6. Once cooled, enjoy your homemade candied orange slices or store them in an airtight container.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 70
• Sugar: 17g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Choose firm, ripe oranges for the best flavor. Slice uniformly for even cooking. Experiment with spices like cinnamon or ginger in the syrup for added depth.