Candied Orange Peel Without Corn Syrup: 7 Steps to Bliss

Oh my goodness, have you ever tried making candied orange peel without corn syrup? Trust me, it’s a game-changer! Not only does it transform simple orange peels into a chewy, sweet treat, but making it at home means you can control the ingredients and skip the corn syrup. I remember the first time I made this delightful treat; I had just finished a batch of fresh orange juice, and instead of tossing the peels, I thought, “Why not give it a go?” The sweet aroma that filled my kitchen had everyone wandering in to see what magic was happening. It’s such a simple process, and you won’t believe how delicious the end result is. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to reduce waste and treat yourself or others to a homemade snack that’s perfect for adding to desserts, snacking, or even gifting! And the best part? You get to relish the intense, zesty flavor that only comes from using fresh, organic oranges. So, let’s dive into this delightful adventure of candied orange peel that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Ingredients List

To make the most delicious homemade candied orange peel without corn syrup, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 large organic oranges – Choosing organic oranges is key here! The flavor is so much brighter and more vibrant compared to conventional oranges. Plus, you won’t have to worry about any pesticide residues on the peels.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – This will give your candied peels that irresistible sweetness and help create that lovely syrup.
• 1 cup water – Just plain ol’ water to help dissolve the sugar and create the syrup that makes the peels delightful and tender.

That’s it! You’re just a few ingredients away from a sweet treat that’ll brighten your day. Let’s get started on turning those lovely oranges into something truly special!

How to Prepare Candied Orange Peel Without Corn Syrup

Getting started on your candied orange peel journey is super easy and oh-so-rewarding! Follow these step-by-step instructions, and before you know it, you’ll have a delightful treat that’s perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite desserts. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Wash the Oranges

The very first thing you want to do is wash your oranges thoroughly. Give them a good scrub under running water to remove any dirt or residues. This is especially important if you’re using non-organic oranges. Just think of it as giving your oranges a little spa day before turning them into something delicious!

Step 2: Peel the Oranges

Now, it’s time to peel those beauties! Carefully slice off the top and bottom of each orange to create a stable base. Then, using a sharp knife, cut down the sides of the orange to remove the skin in long strips. Make sure to take off as much of that bitter white pith as possible, as it can be quite unappetizing. You want just the vibrant orange peel!

Step 3: Cut the Peel

Once you’ve got your peels, it’s time to cut them into strips. Aim for about a half-inch wide; this size is perfect for candying and will give you that lovely chewy texture. Don’t stress if they aren’t all perfectly uniform—each piece will be uniquely delicious!

Step 4: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

In a medium saucepan, combine one cup of water and one cup of granulated sugar. Stir it gently over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves. You’ll know it’s ready when the syrup is clear and there are no sugar granules visible. This syrup is the magic potion that will transform your orange peels!

Step 5: Boil the Orange Peel Strips

Now, it’s time to add your orange peel strips to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let them bubble away for about 45 minutes. You want those peels to soften up and soak up all that sweet goodness. Keep an eye on them and give the pot a little stir now and then, just to keep things moving!

Step 6: Cool in Syrup

Once the peels are nice and tender, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let the peels cool in the syrup for at least an hour. This step is crucial, as it allows them to absorb even more flavor and become extra luscious. Don’t skip this part; your future self will thank you!

Step 7: Coat with Sugar

After they’ve cooled, it’s time for the fun part! Take each peel and roll it in some granulated sugar to coat it evenly. This will give your candied orange peel that lovely sweet crunch on the outside, making every bite a delightful experience. Yum!

Step 8: Drying the Peels

Finally, place the sugar-coated peels on a wire rack to dry. Let them sit for several hours or until they’re no longer sticky to the touch. This drying process helps them firm up, so they’re perfect for snacking or using in your favorite recipes. It’s like waiting for a little surprise—trust me, it’s worth it!

Tips for Success

To ensure your candied orange peel turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my top tips! First, when cutting the peel, aim for even strips; this helps them candy uniformly. If you end up with some thicker pieces, don’t worry too much—just keep an eye on them while they simmer, as they may need a little extra time to soften.

Next, make sure your sugar syrup is at the right consistency. It should be clear and smooth, without any granules left. If it feels too thick before adding the peels, just add a splash more water and stir until it’s dissolved. Remember, the syrup is what gives your peels that delightful sweetness!

Also, patience is key during the cooling and drying process. Allowing the peels to cool in the syrup lets them absorb all that sweet goodness, which is crucial for flavor. And don’t rush the drying! Ensuring they’re fully dried will help them stay fresh longer and give that perfect candy texture.

Finally, be sure to store your candied orange peel in an airtight container. This keeps them moist and flavorful, ready for snacking or adding to your favorite desserts whenever the mood strikes!

Variations

There are so many fun ways to switch up your candied orange peel without corn syrup! Why not try experimenting with different citrus fruits? Grapefruit peels add a delightful bitterness that can be balanced with a bit more sugar, while lemon peels offer a bright, zesty flavor that’s simply irresistible. You could also mix and match citrus for a colorful and flavorful medley!

If you want to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the sugar syrup for a warm, cozy twist. You could even toss in a few whole cloves or star anise during the simmering process for a hint of exotic flavor. Just remember to remove them before coating the peels in sugar. The possibilities are endless, and each variation brings its own unique charm to this homemade treat!

Nutritional Information

When you indulge in homemade candied orange peel without corn syrup, you’re not just enjoying a treat; you’re also getting some nutritional benefits! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per 1 oz serving:

• Calories: 80
• Sugar: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg

Keep in mind that these values can vary slightly based on the size of the oranges used and how much sugar you may end up using for coating. It’s a sweet option that’s perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite recipes without all the guilt. Enjoy every bite!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making candied orange peel without corn syrup? No worries! I’ve gathered some of the most common queries to help you out.

Q1: Can I use regular oranges instead of organic?
While you can use regular oranges, I highly recommend going for organic. They have a fresher flavor and are free from pesticide residues, making your candied orange peel taste even better!

Q2: What can I do with the leftover orange segments?
Don’t toss those juicy orange segments! You can use them in salads, smoothies, or even as a sweet addition to your morning yogurt. They add a burst of freshness!

Q3: How long do the candied orange peels last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, your homemade candied orange peel can last for several weeks. Just make sure they’re fully dried to keep them from getting sticky.

Q4: Can I add flavors to the syrup?
Absolutely! Feel free to infuse the syrup with spices like cinnamon or vanilla. This adds an extra layer of flavor that makes your candied orange peels even more delightful.

Q5: What’s the best way to use candied orange peel?
There are so many ways to enjoy them! You can snack on them as is, chop them up and add to baked goods like cakes or cookies, or even use as a garnish for cocktails. The options are endless!

Print