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Homemade candied orange slices on a white plate

Candied Orange Slices

A cozy treat that turns ordinary oranges into sweet, chewy delights perfect for gifting or snacking.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 24 slices
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 45
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 large Navel oranges Pick firm, thin-skinned fruit.
  • 4 cups granulated sugar Regular sugar gives the best crystal shine.
  • 4 cups water Use filtered water if possible.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Scrub the peels of the oranges thoroughly to remove any wax or chemicals.
  2. Slice the oranges crosswise into 1/8-inch thick slices, discarding the ends.
  3. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch the orange slices in the boiling water for 10 minutes to soften the peel and remove bitterness.
  4. Use a skimmer to transfer the slices into a large bowl filled with ice water to stop the cooking.
  5. Rinse out the pot used for blanching. Dissolve 4 cups of granulated sugar in 4 cups of water within the pot and bring the mixture to a boil, forming a simple syrup.
Cooking
  1. Drain the blanched orange slices and add them to the boiling syrup.
  2. Reduce the heat to low and let the slices simmer for 45–60 minutes or until the peels become translucent, stirring gently every 15 minutes.
  3. When the peel looks glossy and translucent, use a slotted spoon to transfer slices to wire racks set over cookie sheets to catch drips.
  4. Preheat the oven to 175°F (79°C). Bake the slices for 30 minutes to begin drying.
  5. Remove the racks and coat each piece in granulated sugar while still warm.
  6. Return them to the oven and dry for an additional 1 to 1½ hours, or until the slices are mostly dry but still slightly pliable.
Finishing Touches
  1. After drying, coat the candied orange slices again in granulated sugar for a sparkling finish.
  2. Allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container until ready to use.

Notes

For best results, use a mandoline for uniform slices. If slices stick, gently separate with a spatula and bake a little longer. Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the syrup for a spice variation.