Candied Orange Slices Recipe

Candied Orange Slices are truly the jewel-toned treat you never knew you needed. These beautiful citrus rounds are bathed in a simple syrup until they turn glossy, sweet, and gorgeously translucent. Every bite captures the candied sunshine of ripe oranges with a hint of vanilla, resulting in a snack that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re garnishing a special cake, jazzing up your afternoon tea, or just treating yourself, you’ll find yourself dreaming up new reasons to make another batch of Candied Orange Slices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of ingredients for this recipe, but every one pulls its weight in creating perfect Candied Orange Slices. Each brings out the vivid color, aromatic flavor, and satisfying texture that make these slices so unforgettable.

• Fresh oranges: Choose oranges with thin skin and bright, unblemished peels; they offer the best color and flavor for candying.
• Granulated sugar: White sugar preserves the oranges’ sunny hue and creates a shimmering, crystallized gloss.
• Water: Acts as the base for the syrup, ensuring the sugar completely dissolves and circulates around each orange slice.
• Vanilla extract: Just a splash infuses the syrup with a delicate warmth that rounds out the citrus zing beautifully.

How to Make Candied Orange Slices

Step 1: Slice and Prepare the Oranges

Start by washing your oranges thoroughly under cool running water, giving the skins a gentle scrub to remove any wax or residue. Cut them into thin rounds, about a quarter inch thick, taking your time to slice them evenly. Carefully remove any seeds as you go; this prevents bitterness and ensures your Candied Orange Slices are smooth and enjoyable in every bite.

Step 2: Soften the Orange Slices

Place your orange slices into a large pot of water and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once the water is bubbling, reduce the heat and let the slices simmer gently for 10 minutes. This step helps soften the peel and fruit while also taming some of that intense citrus bitterness, prepping them to soak up the sweet syrup ahead.

Step 3: Make the Vanilla Syrup

While the slices are simmering, set up a separate saucepan and combine the granulated sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Stir this mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely and the syrup is clear and lightly bubbling. The aroma—sweet and fragrant—will fill your kitchen and set the stage for the transformation to come.

Step 4: Candy the Orange Slices

Using tongs or a slotted spoon, gently transfer the softened orange slices from their bath into the syrup. Turn the heat down to low and let the oranges simmer for about an hour. Check occasionally to make sure the slices are submerged and the syrup is bubbling gently; they’re done when they look glassy and fully translucent. Try not to rush this part—a slow simmer is what gives Candied Orange Slices their signature texture!

Step 5: Cool and Set

Once the slices are candied and luminous, carefully lift them out of the syrup and arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them cool at room temperature until they’re firm and no longer sticky to the touch. This resting period lets the syrup set into the peel and turns every Candied Orange Slice into a lovely, jewel-like confection.

How to Serve Candied Orange Slices

Garnishes

Candied Orange Slices make spectacular garnishes for all kinds of desserts. Try draping them over a frosted cake, slipping one onto the rim of a cocktail glass, or nestling them atop a tart for a burst of color. They also shine when chopped and sprinkled over yogurt, turning even the simplest breakfast into something special.

Side Dishes

Pair Candied Orange Slices with cheese boards featuring creamy goat cheese or sharp cheddar—they add a sweet, citrusy counterpoint that brings the whole spread together. For something more decadent, serve alongside dark chocolate squares or vanilla ice cream for a simple but stunning after-dinner treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Gift a batch of Candied Orange Slices in a clear cellophane bag tied with ribbon, or layer them in a pretty tin to surprise a friend. At home, arrange them in a pattern on a serving platter for parties, or dip half of each slice in melted chocolate for an irresistible twist. Their sparkle and color make every presentation feel festive and thoughtful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Candied Orange Slices in an airtight container at room temperature, ideally with pieces separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks, making it easy to enjoy sweet citrus anytime you like.

Freezing

For longer storage, Candied Orange Slices freeze quite well. Lay them in a single layer, or separate layers with parchment before freezing. When sealed properly, they’ll keep their taste and texture for up to three months—just let them thaw at room temperature before using.

Reheating

While Candied Orange Slices are typically enjoyed at room temperature, you can gently warm them in a low oven for a few minutes if you prefer them a bit softer. Be sure to watch closely, as too much heat can cause them to melt or become too sticky.

FAQs

Can I use other citrus fruits for this recipe?

Absolutely! This technique works beautifully with lemons, limes, or even grapefruit. Just keep an eye on the simmer time, as thinner-skinned fruits candy a bit faster than oranges.

Do I need to peel the oranges first?

No peeling required—the magic of Candied Orange Slices is that the entire round, peel and all, gets sweet and tender. In fact, the peel is where much of the flavor and color comes from.

What should I do with the leftover syrup?

Don’t toss it! The leftover orange-vanilla syrup is amazing drizzled over pancakes or stirred into tea for a sweet, citrusy note. It also makes a lush simple syrup for cocktails.

How do I stop the slices from sticking together during storage?

Parchment or wax paper is your best friend here. Place sheets between layers of Candied Orange Slices, and be sure your container is truly airtight to minimize stickiness.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

Reducing sugar can affect the candying process and shelf life, but you can experiment by cutting back slightly. Just know the texture may be a little less glossy and the slices less preserved.

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully satisfying about making your own Candied Orange Slices at home—it’s simple, beautiful, and delicious every time. I hope this guide inspires you to give them a try, customize them to your tastes, and share the citrusy joy with friends and family!

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