Print

Classic Candied Orange Slices Recipe

A stack and pile of bright orange candied orange slices heavily coated in sparkling white sugar.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make glossy, chewy candied orange slices using a simple simmering method. These sweet and tangy citrus treats are perfect for snacking, garnishing desserts, or making elegant edible gifts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large navel oranges
  • 4 cups water, divided
  • 4 cups granulated sugar, divided
  • 1 cup water (for final simmer)

Instructions

  1. Wash the oranges well. Slice each orange crosswise into 1/8-inch thick rounds. Discard the ends.
  2. Place the orange slices in a large saucepan. Cover with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Drain the water completely.
  3. Return the orange slices to the saucepan. Add 4 cups of granulated sugar and 2 cups of fresh water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the oranges, uncovered, for 45 to 60 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The slices should become translucent and tender.
  5. Carefully remove the slices from the syrup using tongs and place them in a single layer on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Let them drain for 15 minutes. Reserve the remaining syrup.
  6. Prepare a drying environment. You can either let them air dry at room temperature for 12 to 24 hours until tacky but not wet, or place the baking sheet in a very low oven (175°F or 80°C) for 1 to 2 hours, turning them halfway through, until they are dry to the touch.
  7. For a final coating, place 1 cup of granulated sugar in a shallow dish. Roll each dried slice in the sugar until lightly coated.
  8. Place the sugar-coated slices back on the wire rack to dry completely for several hours before storing.

Notes

  • For chocolate dipped candied orange slices, melt 6 ounces of dark or milk chocolate. Dip half of each cooled, dried slice into the melted chocolate. Place on parchment paper and sprinkle with flaky sea salt, if desired. Let the chocolate set completely before serving or storing.
  • Save the leftover sugar syrup. You can use it as a simple syrup for cocktails or to sweeten iced tea.
  • If you want a chewier texture, dry them longer at room temperature. For a more translucent look, ensure they simmer until fully tender in the syrup.

Nutrition