Homemade Candied Orange Peel: 5 Reasons to Love This Treat

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the delightful sweetness of *Homemade Candied Orange Peel*! This treat is one of those little joys that can brighten up any day. I remember the first time I made it; my kitchen was filled with this intoxicating citrus aroma that made my mouth water instantly. It’s such a versatile delight – you can use it in baking to add a zing to your cakes or enjoy it as a sweet snack on its own. Plus, it brings back so many memories of my grandmother making it during the holidays, filling jars with glistening orange strips to share with family and friends. It’s a recipe that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also wraps you in nostalgia. Trust me, once you try making this candied orange peel, you’ll want to have it on hand all the time! It’s simply irresistible!

Ingredients List

Before we dive into the magic of making *Homemade Candied Orange Peel*, let’s gather our ingredients. You’ll need:

• 4 large oranges – I always prefer organic for the best flavor and zest.
• 2 cups granulated sugar – This will create that sweet syrup and delightful coating.
• 1 cup water – Just enough to dissolve the sugar and create a luscious syrup.

These simple ingredients combine to create a treat that’s not just sweet but bursting with citrusy goodness. Make sure to have everything ready before you start; it makes the process so much smoother!

How to Prepare Homemade Candied Orange Peel

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s jump right into the fun part – preparing your *Homemade Candied Orange Peel*! I promise, it’s a rewarding process that’ll fill your kitchen with heavenly scents. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have a sweet treat in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Oranges

First things first, give your oranges a good wash under running water. You want to remove any wax or dirt since we’ll be using the peels. Once they’re clean, carefully peel the oranges, trying to keep the peels in larger strips. I like to use a sharp knife for this; it makes the job easier and less messy!

Step 2: Blanching the Peels

Next, we’re going to blanch those peels. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil and toss in the orange peels. Let them simmer for about 10 minutes. This step helps remove some of the bitterness from the peels, making them perfectly sweet later. After 10 minutes, drain the peels and give them a quick rinse under cold water.

Step 3: Making the Sugar Syrup

In a medium saucepan, combine your 2 cups of sugar with 1 cup of water. Stir it up a bit and bring it to a boil over medium heat. This syrup is key for that delicious candy coating, so make sure it’s bubbling nicely before moving on!

Step 4: Simmering the Peels

Now, it’s time to add the blanched peels to your bubbling sugar syrup. Reduce the heat and let them simmer gently for about 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they become soft and translucent. The syrup will thicken up beautifully, coating each peel in sugary goodness!

Step 5: Drying and Coating the Peels

Once your peels are done simmering, carefully remove them from the syrup and place them on a wire rack to dry. This step is crucial; let them sit for about an hour until they’re no longer sticky. After that, roll them in a bit of sugar for that lovely sparkle and extra sweetness. Trust me, this is where the magic truly happens!

Tips for Success

To ensure your *Homemade Candied Orange Peel* turns out perfectly, here are some tried-and-true tips from my kitchen to yours!

• Choose the Right Oranges: Opt for organic oranges whenever possible. They have a richer flavor and fewer chemicals on the peel, making your candied peels more delicious and healthier.
• Adjusting Sugar Levels: If you prefer a less sweet treat, feel free to reduce the sugar slightly. Just remember, the sugar syrup helps preserve the peels and adds that signature sweetness!
• Get Creative: Use your candied orange peels in various ways! Chop them up and add them to muffins, toss them into salads for a zesty twist, or even use them as a garnish for cocktails. The possibilities are endless!

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making the best candied orange peel ever. Enjoy the process and the scrumptious results!

Variations of Homemade Candied Orange Peel

Now that you’ve mastered the classic *Homemade Candied Orange Peel*, let’s talk about some fun variations to spice things up! You can easily switch things around and create your own unique treats. For example, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the sugar syrup for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs beautifully with the citrus.

If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with other citrus peels like lemon, grapefruit, or even lime. Each brings a different zing and personality to your candy. You might even consider dipping the dried peels in dark chocolate for an indulgent treat that’s just heavenly! The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity run wild!

Nutritional Information

When you whip up a batch of *Homemade Candied Orange Peel*, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in! Here are the typical nutritional values per piece, but keep in mind that these are estimates:

• Calories: 50
• Sugar: 10g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g

This treat is a sweet little snack that can fit nicely into your dessert plans. Just remember, moderation is key, especially with those sugar levels! Enjoy the zesty goodness without any guilt!

FAQ About Homemade Candied Orange Peel

Got questions about your *Homemade Candied Orange Peel*? I’ve got answers! Let’s tackle some common queries to help you out.

Q1: Can I use other citrus fruits for candying?
Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on oranges, you can experiment with lemons, grapefruits, or even limes. Each brings a unique flavor that’s totally worth trying!

Q2: How do I store candied orange peel?
Once your peels are completely dried and coated in sugar, store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well for several weeks at room temperature!

Q3: What if my candied peels are too sweet?
If you find them overly sweet, try reducing the sugar in the syrup next time. You can also balance the sweetness by pairing them with dark chocolate or using them in savory dishes.

Q4: Can I use store-bought orange peels?
I recommend using fresh oranges for the best flavor and texture. Store-bought peels may not yield the same delicious results!

Happy candying! I hope these tips help you enjoy your candied orange peel to the fullest!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me share why making *Homemade Candied Orange Peel* is such a delightful experience and why you’ll keep coming back to this recipe!

• Simple Ingredients: With just a few items from your kitchen, you can create something truly special.
• Versatility: These sweet peels can be used in baking, snacking, or as a garnish, making them a fantastic addition to any dish.
• Nostalgic Flavor: The aroma and taste will remind you of cozy family gatherings and warm holidays.
• Creative Fun: You can easily experiment with flavors and spices, making each batch uniquely yours!

Trust me, once you try your hand at this recipe, you’ll be hooked on that zesty sweetness!

Print