Old Fashioned Candied Orange Peel 7 Sweet Reasons to Make It

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the magic of Old Fashioned Candied Orange Peel! This sweet, zesty treat has been a favorite in my kitchen for as long as I can remember. It’s not just a delightful snack; it’s a secret weapon for elevating desserts and cocktails alike. I love tossing a few pieces into a fruit salad or using them as a garnish on a fancy dessert. There’s something about the bright, citrusy flavor combined with that sweet glaze that makes everything feel a little more special.

Making candied orange peel is surprisingly easy and so rewarding. The process fills your kitchen with the most heavenly aroma as the peels simmer in syrup. I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia, thinking about my grandmother making these treats during the holidays. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy this classic delicacy!

Ingredients List

To make your delicious Old Fashioned Candied Orange Peel, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

• 3 large oranges, washed, peeled, and cut into strips
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup water

These ingredients come together beautifully to create that sweet, tangy goodness we all love. Make sure to use fresh oranges for the best flavor and aroma. Trust me, the quality of your ingredients makes all the difference in this delightful treat!

How to Prepare Old Fashioned Candied Orange Peel

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making your own Old Fashioned Candied Orange Peel! I promise, it’s a straightforward process that rewards you with sweet, citrusy goodness. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to creating a delightful treat that’ll impress anyone lucky enough to try it!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Wash the oranges: Start by giving those beautiful oranges a good wash. You want to remove any wax or dirt on the skin. A quick scrub under running water will do the trick!
2. Peel the oranges: Carefully peel the oranges, trying to keep as much of the white pith on the fruit as possible. The pith can be a bit bitter, so we want to minimize that. Cut the peel into ¼-inch strips. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; a little rustic charm is part of the fun!
3. Blanch the peels: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil and add the orange peels. Blanch them for about 5 minutes. This step softens the peels and helps remove some of that bitterness. After 5 minutes, drain the peels in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. Make the syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of water. Heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves. You want to bring it to a gentle simmer; it should bubble softly!
5. Add the peels: Once the syrup is simmering, carefully add your blanched orange peels. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 45 minutes. You want the peels to absorb all that syrupy goodness and become tender while soaking in that sweet flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
6. Dry the peels: After 45 minutes, use a slotted spoon to remove the peels from the syrup and place them on a wire rack. Let them cool and dry for at least an hour. It’s important to give them some time to dry out a bit; this helps them develop that delightful chewy texture.
7. Coat with sugar: Once the peels are dry, toss them in a bowl with a little granulated sugar to coat them. This step adds an extra layer of sweetness and gives them that beautiful sparkling finish!

And there you have it! Your homemade Old Fashioned Candied Orange Peel is ready to enjoy. These delightful treats are perfect for snacking, garnishing desserts, or even adding to your favorite cocktails!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk numbers! Each piece of your homemade Old Fashioned Candied Orange Peel is not just a treat for the taste buds but also has some nutritional value. Here’s a quick breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 50
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Sugar: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keep in mind, this data is an estimate based on standard ingredients. So, enjoy your candied orange peel guilt-free and savor each sweet bite!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making Old Fashioned Candied Orange Peel? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get, along with my best answers. I want you to feel totally confident in your candied orange peel journey!

Common Questions

Can I use other citrus fruits? Absolutely! While oranges are classic, you can experiment with lemons, limes, or even grapefruits. Just keep in mind that each citrus has its own unique flavor, so adjust the sugar levels to balance the tartness if needed!

How long can I store candied orange peel? If stored properly in an airtight container, your Old Fashioned Candied Orange Peel can last for about 2-3 weeks. Just make sure to keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain that chewy texture!

What can I use candied orange peel for? Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can enjoy it as a sweet snack, add it to baked goods like cakes or cookies, or use it as a stunning garnish for cocktails and desserts. It’s a delightful touch that adds a burst of flavor and color!

Can I make this recipe using store-bought candied orange peel? Sure! If you’re short on time, pre-packaged candied orange peel can save you a step. Just remember that homemade versions often have a fresher taste and texture, plus you can control the sweetness!

Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet? Yes! This recipe is entirely vegetarian-friendly, made with just oranges, sugar, and water. You can indulge without any worries!

Tips for Success

To make your Old Fashioned Candied Orange Peel truly shine, I’ve got a few handy tips and tricks that’ll help you nail it every time!

• Choose high-quality oranges: The flavor and aroma of your candied peels will depend on the oranges you use. Opt for organic or freshly picked oranges if you can. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
• Don’t rush the blanching: Blanching is crucial for softening the peels and reducing bitterness. Make sure to stick to the 5-minute rule—it’s key for that perfect balance of flavor!
• Keep an eye on the syrup: When simmering the peels, stir occasionally and adjust the heat if needed. You want a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil. This ensures even candying without burning!
• Let them dry thoroughly: Patience is key here! Allow the peels to dry completely on the wire rack. This step helps achieve that delightful chewiness and prevents them from becoming sticky.

Following these tips will lead you to a batch of candied orange peels that you’ll be proud to share with friends and family!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with your Old Fashioned Candied Orange Peel! Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Try different citrus fruits: Instead of just oranges, why not branch out? Lemons and grapefruits can give you a different flavor profile. Just remember that lemons might need a bit more sugar due to their tartness!
• Spice it up: Add a dash of cinnamon or a touch of ginger to the syrup for a warm twist. You could even infuse the syrup with vanilla or star anise for a unique flavor experience!
• Chocolate dip: For a decadent treat, dip your candied peels in melted dark chocolate. Let them cool on parchment paper for a delightful sweet and bitter combination that’s simply irresistible!
• Mix in some nuts: Toss your candied orange peel with chopped nuts, like almonds or pistachios, for a crunchy contrast. This combo makes a fantastic snack that’s perfect for sharing!

Feel free to get creative; the options are endless! Enjoy experimenting and finding your favorite twist on this classic recipe!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your Old Fashioned Candied Orange Peel fresh and delicious, store the leftovers in an airtight container. This helps maintain their chewy texture and prevents them from drying out. You can keep them at room temperature for about 2-3 weeks, but I recommend placing them in the fridge if you want to extend their shelf life a bit longer.

Reheating isn’t necessary for candied orange peels since they’re best enjoyed at room temperature or straight from the container. Just grab a piece and savor that sweet, citrusy goodness whenever the craving strikes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Making Old Fashioned Candied Orange Peel is such a rewarding experience, and here’s why you’re going to adore this recipe:

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create this delightful treat in your own kitchen!
• Incredible Flavor: The combination of sweet and citrusy flavors is simply irresistible, making every bite a joy.
• Versatile Uses: Perfect for snacking, garnishing desserts, or adding flair to your favorite cocktails!
• Homemade Goodness: There’s nothing like the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch.
• Gift-Worthy: Pack them up in a cute jar, and you’ve got a charming, homemade gift for friends and family!

Trust me, once you make these, you’ll be hooked!

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