Candied Orange Peel Candy

Name: Candied Orange Peel Candy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Ingredients: 2 large oranges; 2 cups sugar; 1 cup water; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Cake Shop Recipes

I absolutely love the bright, citrusy flavor of candied orange peel candy! It's such a delightful treat that brings a burst of sunshine to any day. Making it myself has become a wonderful ritual, allowing me to control the sweetness and add my personal touch. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also transforms simple orange peels into gourmet candy that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a decoration for cakes and desserts. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it every season!

Created by

The Chefellacooks Team

Last updated on 2026-02-14T17:14:19.334Z

When I first tried making candied orange peel, I was astonished by how simple and satisfying the process was. The sweetest moments came when I had a warm batch ready to enjoy with a cup of tea. What's remarkable is that the natural oils in the orange peels create an aromatic flavor that no store-bought candy could replicate.

I learned that the key to achieving the perfect texture is not rushing the simmering process. Patience is essential; let the peels absorb the sugar syrup slowly for that delightful chewy consistency. Each bite is like sunshine wrapped in sweetness!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Bright citrus bursts that brighten up your day
Perfectly chewy texture with just the right amount of sweetness
Versatile treat for snacking or decorating desserts

Understanding the Ingredients

The main star of this recipe is, of course, the oranges. Choose organic oranges if possible, as their peels are free from synthetic pesticides and chemicals. The zestiness of the oranges enhances the final flavor of your candy, making it more vibrant. When selecting oranges, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size, which indicates juiciness and fresh flavor. The sugar used not only sweetens the peels but also acts as a preservative, allowing you to extend their shelf life.

Water serves a dual purpose in this recipe: it dissolves the sugar when making the syrup and contributes to achieving the desired texture of the candied peels. If you want a different flavor profile, consider infusing the syrup with spices like cinnamon or cloves during the cooking process. A pinch of salt is essential as it balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering the natural citrus flavor.

Technique Tips for Perfect Candying

Blanching the peels is a crucial step in this process. Not only does it soften the peels, but it also minimizes any bitterness, resulting in a sweeter candy. Ensure you don’t skip this step, as properly blanched peels will yield a better texture. After blanching, you want to see the peels slightly softened but still intact. If they seem too firm after boiling, consider blanching them for an additional few minutes to get them just right.

Simmering the peels in syrup requires attention. It’s important to maintain a gentle simmer rather than a vigorous boil, which can cause the syrup to splatter and potentially caramelize unevenly. Look for the peels to become translucent and for the syrup to thicken slightly as it reduces—this usually takes about 30 minutes. If you notice the syrup getting too thick too quickly, you can add a tablespoon of water and continue simmering on low heat.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started on your candied orange peel candy:

Ingredients

2 large oranges
2 cups sugar
1 cup water
Pinch of salt

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're well on your way to making this delicious treat!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your candied orange peels:

Prepare the Oranges

Wash the oranges thoroughly and cut off the ends. Carefully slice the oranges into quarters and remove the fruit, leaving the peels intact. Then, cut the peels into strips about half an inch wide.

Blanch the Peels

In a pot of boiling water, blanch the orange peels for about 10 minutes. This helps to soften them and removes any bitterness. Drain and set aside.

Make the Syrup

In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and a pinch of salt. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.

Candy the Peels

Add the blanched peels to the syrup and simmer gently for about 30 minutes, ensuring they are fully submerged. The peels should become translucent and slightly thickened.

Dry the Peels

Using a slotted spoon, remove the candied peels and place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Let them dry for a few hours.

Coat in Sugar

Once the peels are dry, roll them in sugar to finish. This step adds an extra layer of sweetness that balances the citrus.

Store and Enjoy

Store the candied orange peels in an airtight container and enjoy them as a sweet treat, or use them as beautiful decorations for your desserts!

Enjoy your homemade candied orange peels!

Pro Tips

For a variation, try using lemon or grapefruit peels. Adjust the sugar according to your taste for less sweetness if desired.

Storage Tips

Once your candied orange peels are fully dried and coated in sugar, storing them properly will help maintain their freshness. Use an airtight container and keep them in a cool, dark place. They should last up to two weeks outside the refrigerator. If you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating them to prevent any moisture from affecting the texture. Just remember to allow them to come to room temperature before serving to ensure the best flavor.

For longer storage, these orange peels can also be frozen. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight freezer bag, and they can last up to six months. When you’re ready to use them, there’s no need to thaw—simply add them straight to your favorite recipe, whether it’s as a garnish for desserts or even in holiday baked goods.

Serving Suggestions

Candied orange peel candy is incredibly versatile. Enjoy them straight as a sweet snack with a cup of tea or coffee. They also work beautifully in a cheese platter, paired with rich cheeses like Brie or aged Gouda. If you’re looking to elevate your desserts, consider using the candied peels as a decoration on cakes, cupcakes, or even alongside ice cream – the bright color and citrus flavor provide a delightful contrast to creamy textures.

For an added twist, chop the candied orange peels and mix them into cookie dough or brownie batter for a surprising zesty flavor. They can also be incorporated into homemade granola or trail mix, giving a citrus kick that pairs perfectly with nuts and oats. The possibilities are endless, and experimenting with them is half the fun!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of orange?

Yes, any variety of sweet orange will work well for this candy recipe.

→ How long can I store candied orange peels?

Stored in an airtight container, they can last for up to a month.

→ Is it necessary to blanch the peels?

Blanching helps remove bitterness and softens the peels, enhancing the overall flavor.

→ Can I coat the peels in chocolate?

Absolutely! Dipping the cooled peels in melted chocolate adds a delicious twist.