Candied Orange Peel
Sweet, tangy candied orange peels with a glossy coating, perfect for snacking, baking, or garnishing desserts. Bright citrus flavor appeals to all orange lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the peel of oranges into 4 sections with a sharp knife.
- Remove the peel carefully with your fingers.
- Scrape the white membrane from the peel with a spoon.
- Cut the peel lengthwise into strips 1/4-inch wide.
- Heat the peel and 8 cups of water to boiling in a 3-quart saucepan.
- Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes.
- Drain the peel in a strainer.
- Heat 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of water to boiling in a 2-quart saucepan, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the drained peel; simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 45 minutes.
- Drain the peel in a strainer again.
- Roll the peel in 1 1/2 cups of sugar.
- Spread the candied peel on wax paper to dry.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfectly candied orange peel, ensure you remove all the white membrane, as it can make the final product bitter. If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon during the syrup stage. You can also substitute other citrus peels like lemon or grapefruit for a unique twist. If you encounter any tough peel, simmer it a bit longer to soften.
Serving Suggestions
Candied orange peel makes a delightful addition to baked goods, enhancing cookies and cakes. It pairs beautifully with homemade apple butter or can be enjoyed as a sweet snack on its own. For a unique touch, chop it finely and mix it into granola or yogurt for a zesty breakfast treat. It also complements various desserts, adding a burst of citrus flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store the candied orange peel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to a month. If you need to rehydrate the peel, simply soak it in warm water for a few minutes before using, which will soften it and restore some moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Orange Peel contains roughly 171 calories, with 4g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (78% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other citrus fruits for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use lemon, lime, or grapefruit peels in the same way as orange peels. Just keep in mind that different citrus fruits may have varying levels of bitterness, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the desired sweetness.
What can I do with leftover syrup?
The syrup left from candied orange peel can be repurposed as a flavorful sweetener for drinks, such as iced tea or cocktails. You can also drizzle it over pancakes or waffles for a citrusy twist, or use it to sweeten homemade sauces or dressings.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan since it only includes oranges, water, and sugar. Just ensure that the sugar you use is vegan-friendly, as some sugar is processed with bone char. Look for brands labeled as organic or vegan to be sure.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).