Candied orange slices are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of oranges with the rich, sugary goodness of syrup. They make for an excellent snack, a unique gift, or a beautiful decoration for desserts. With their vibrant color and sweet flavor, candied orange slices bring a touch of sunshine to any dish or occasion.
Why We Love This Candied Orange Slices Recipe
There’s something truly special about making candied orange slices. First, you get to experience the enticing aroma of oranges filling your kitchen, which instantly uplifts your mood. Not to mention, the simplicity of the recipe makes it easy to accomplish, even for beginners. These slices not only taste amazing, but they also provide versatility. You can use them for decorating cakes, adding to homemade desserts, or simply enjoying as a sweet snack. Plus, the satisfaction of crafting something delicious from scratch is a rewarding experience.
Ingredients about Candied Orange Slices
To make candied orange slices, you will need the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- Ice water
- 8 cups water (divided)
- 4 small oranges (such as tangelos)
- 4 cups granulated sugar (plus more for coating)
This simple list of ingredients highlights the beauty of the recipe. Fresh oranges combined with sugar create that perfect balance of sweet and citrusy flavors that you will cherish.
How to Make Candied Orange Slices Directions
Cooking candied orange slices involves a few straightforward steps, and you’ll find the process both enjoyable and fulfilling.
- Start by filling a large bowl with ice water. This will be used to cool the orange slices once they are blanched.
- In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over high heat. As you wait for the water to boil, prepare your oranges by washing them thoroughly.
- Slice the oranges into even slices, about 1/4-inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the syrup well.
- Once the water is boiling, carefully add the orange slices to the pot. Cook them for about 2 minutes. This quick blanching helps remove some bitterness from the peel.
- After 2 minutes, use a slotted spoon to transfer the orange slices directly to the ice water. This quick cooling process halts the cooking and preserves the orange’s vibrant color.
- Discard the boiling water and return the saucepan to the heat. Now add the remaining 4 cups of water and 4 cups of granulated sugar to the pot. Stir well as you bring the mixture to a boil. The sugar must fully dissolve to create a sweet syrup for the oranges.
- Once the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Carefully add the boiled orange slices to the syrup.
- Allow the orange slices to simmer gently for 45 to 60 minutes. Stir gently every 15 minutes to ensure the slices are well-coated and receiving even heat.
- When the time is up, use a slotted spoon to remove the candied orange slices from the syrup. Place them on a cooling rack set over a baking sheet. This allows any excess syrup to drip off while giving the slices a chance to cool and dry for up to 24 hours.
- Once cooled, you have the option to dip the orange slices in granulated sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and sparkly appearance.
- Finally, store the cooled candied orange slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will last for up to a month.
How to Serve Candied Orange Slices
Serving candied orange slices can be as creative as you want it to be. They make a stunning garnish for a range of desserts. Imagine a layer cake or a cheesecake beautifully topped with these vibrant slices, adding a burst of color and flavor.
You can also enjoy them as a standalone snack. The sweet, chewy texture makes them a lovely treat for tea time or as an addition to your charcuterie boards. Their unique flavor pairs well with various cheeses and fruits. Plus, they can add an unexpected twist to your morning yogurt or oatmeal, giving your breakfast a citrus-infused brightness.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider using candied orange slices in a homemade trail mix. Combine them with nuts, seeds, and a hint of dark chocolate for a delightful snack that balances sweet and savory. The possibilities are endless, making these slices a versatile option for all occasions.
Expert Tips: Candied Orange Slices
To ensure your candied orange slices turn out perfectly, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Selecting Oranges: When choosing your oranges, look for small, firm fruits with vibrant skin. Tangelos or other small varieties work well because they offer a good balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Uniform Slicing: Slicing the oranges evenly is crucial. This ensures that each piece cooks at the same rate, resulting in a uniform texture.
- Syrup Consistency: Make sure your sugar is completely dissolved before adding the orange slices. If the syrup is too thick, it may not coat the slices evenly.
- Patience: Don’t rush the cooling and drying process. Allowing the slices to cool and dry for a full 24 hours helps the flavors develop and enhances their chewy texture.
- Creative Coating: If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the syrup. This addition can elevate your candied orange slices to the next level.
How to Store Candied Orange Slices
Proper storage will extend the life of your homemade candied orange slices. Once cooled, place the slices in an airtight container. Glass jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work well. Make sure to layer the slices with parchment paper if you’re stacking them, as this will prevent sticking.
Store the container in the refrigerator, where your slices will remain fresh for up to a month. If you find yourself with a larger batch, you can also freeze them. Just ensure they are sealed tightly and separated with parchment paper to avoid clumping together.
Variation of Candied Orange Slices
While traditional candied orange slices are delightful on their own, you can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
- Spiced Candied Orange Slices: Add a few whole cloves, star anise, or a cinnamon stick to the syrup while it simmers to infuse the orange slices with warm spice flavors.
- Chocolate-Dipped Candied Orange Slices: For an extra indulgence, dip your cooled orange slices in melted dark or milk chocolate. This combination adds a richness that balances the sweet citrus.
- Lemon or Grapefruit: Try using lemons or grapefruits instead of oranges. The process remains the same, but you can enjoy a different flavor profile.
- Candied Orange Peels: Instead of slicing the entire orange, consider using just the peels. Follow the same steps, and you’ll have delicious candied orange peels that are perfect for snacking or flavoring desserts.
- Enhanced Coating: Instead of just granulated sugar, mix in some finely chopped nuts or coconut flakes with sugar for coating to add an interesting texture to the finished product.
FAQ
What are candied orange slices?
Candied orange slices are orange slices that have been cooked in sugar syrup to create a sweet, chewy treat. They can be enjoyed alone, used as decorations, or incorporated into various dishes.
How long do candied orange slices last?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, candied orange slices can last for up to a month. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Can I use different types of oranges for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of oranges. Tangelos, navel oranges, or even grapefruits can be used to add unique flavors to your candied slices.
How can I serve candied orange slices?
You can serve them as a sweet snack, as garnishes for desserts, in trail mixes, or alongside cheeses for an elevated cheese platter.
Can I skip the sugar coating?
Yes, you can skip the sugar coating if you prefer. The orange slices will still be sweet on their own after simmering in the sugar syrup.
Candied Orange Slices
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 small small oranges (such as tangelos) Preferably firm with vibrant skin.
- 8 cups water (divided) 4 cups for boiling and 4 cups for syrup.
- 4 cups granulated sugar Plus more for coating.
Instructions
Preparation
- Fill a large bowl with ice water for cooling the orange slices after blanching.
- In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over high heat.
- Wash the oranges thoroughly and slice them into even slices, about 1/4-inch thick.
Cooking
- Carefully add the orange slices to the boiling water and cook for about 2 minutes.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the orange slices to the ice water to cool.
- Discard the boiling water and return the saucepan to heat. Add the remaining 4 cups of water and 4 cups of sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Once the mixture boils, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the boiled orange slices to the syrup.
- Allow the slices to simmer gently for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating.
- Remove the candied orange slices from the syrup using a slotted spoon and place them on a cooling rack set over a baking sheet.
- Allow the slices to cool and dry for up to 24 hours.
- Optionally, dip the cooled slices in granulated sugar for extra sweetness.
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