Candied Orange Slices

Candied orange slices are a sweet, zesty delight that can elevate any dish or stand alone as a flavorful snack. These vibrant, chewy treats are infused with sugar, perfect for garnishing desserts, complementing cheese platters, or simply enjoying as a nostalgic bite of sunshine. Easy to prepare, this recipe invites you into the kitchen to create delicious memories while savoring the citrusy goodness of homemade candied oranges.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, making candied orange slices is straightforward and enjoyable.
• Versatile Use: These slices can be used in various dishes, from desserts to cheese boards, or enjoyed on their own.
• Flavorful Addition: The sweet and tangy taste of candied orange slices adds depth and brightness to your favorite recipes.
• Homemade Goodness: Making these treats at home ensures freshness and allows you to customize flavors to your liking.
• Perfect for Gifting: Packaged beautifully, candied orange slices make delightful gifts for holidays or special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare candied orange slices successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Saucepan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

• Saucepan: A sturdy saucepan is essential for boiling the oranges and making the syrup without spilling.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to slice the oranges thinly for even cooking.
• Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking when cooling the candied slices on baking sheets.

Ingredients

For the Candied Orange Slices

• 4 fresh oranges
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Candied Orange Slices

Step 1: Prepare the Oranges

1. Wash the oranges thoroughly under running water.
2. Slice them into thin rounds (about 0.25 inches thick), making sure to remove any seeds.

Step 2: Boil the Orange Slices

1. Place the sliced oranges in a pot filled with water.
2. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Make the Syrup

1. In another saucepan, combine sugar, water, and vanilla extract.
2. Heat this mixture until it becomes clear and bubbly.

Step 4: Candy the Oranges

1. Transfer boiled orange slices into the syrup carefully.
2. Simmer on low heat for about 1 hour until they become translucent.

Step 5: Cool Down

1. Remove the candied orange slices from syrup using a slotted spoon.
2. Place them on parchment-lined baking sheets to cool until set.

Step 6: Serve or Store

1. Enjoy your candied orange slices as desired!
2. Alternatively, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for future use.

How to Serve Candied Orange Slices

Candied orange slices are versatile treats that can enhance various dishes or be enjoyed on their own. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Garnish Desserts

• Top cakes and cupcakes with candied orange slices for a vibrant finish.
• Use them as a stylish garnish for ice cream or sorbet, adding a zesty crunch.

Cheese Platters

• Pair candied orange slices with soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese for a sweet and tangy contrast.
• Add them to a charcuterie board alongside cured meats for an attractive presentation.

Breakfast Treats

• Sprinkle candied orange slices over oatmeal or yogurt for a refreshing twist.
• Incorporate them into pancakes or waffles as a flavorful topping.

Cocktails and Beverages

• Use candied orange slices as garnishes in cocktails, bringing a citrusy flair to drinks.
• Add them to tea or sparkling water for an aromatic infusion.

Stand-Alone Snack

• Enjoy candied orange slices as a sweet snack on their own, perfect for satisfying sugar cravings.
• Pack them in lunch boxes or keep them handy for an easy grab-and-go treat.

How to Perfect Candied Orange Slices

Creating the perfect candied orange slices takes practice and attention. Follow these tips to ensure your slices turn out beautifully every time.

• Select ripe oranges: Choose fresh, juicy oranges for the best flavor and texture.
• Slice evenly: Aim for uniform thickness (about 0.25 inches) to ensure even cooking and consistency.
• Monitor syrup temperature: Keep the syrup bubbling gently to avoid burning while ensuring it infuses well with the oranges.
• Cool properly: Allow the slices to cool completely on parchment paper so they set without sticking together.
• Experiment with flavors: Enhance the syrup by adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for a unique taste profile.
• Store correctly: Keep the candied slices in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Candied Orange Slices

Candied orange slices complement various dishes beautifully. Here are some side dishes that pair perfectly with them.

1. Cheese and Crackers: A classic combination that balances sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a light appetizer.
2. Mixed Green Salad: Tossed greens with candied orange slices add color and sweetness, enhancing your salad’s taste.
3. Roasted Vegetables: The sweetness of roasted carrots and parsnips pairs well with the citrus notes of the candied oranges.
4. Pork Tenderloin: Serve alongside pork dishes, where the sweetness counteracts savory flavors beautifully.
5. Rice Pilaf: Stir in chopped candied oranges into rice pilaf for added texture and flavor bursts in each bite.
6. Couscous Salad: Incorporate candied orange slices into couscous salads, providing brightness and zestiness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making candied orange slices can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the rinsing step: Not washing the oranges thoroughly can introduce wax or pesticides into your candy. Always rinse your oranges under running water before slicing.
• Cutting slices too thick: Thick slices may not candy evenly, leading to an inconsistent texture. Aim for thin rounds, about 0.25 inches thick, to ensure even cooking.
• Not monitoring the syrup: Leaving the syrup unattended can cause it to burn or crystallize. Keep an eye on it while it heats and stir occasionally for the best results.
• Forgetting to cool properly: Allowing candied orange slices to cool in the syrup can make them overly sticky. Transfer them to parchment-lined sheets immediately after cooking to set properly.
• Ignoring flavor variations: Sticking only with oranges limits your creativity. Experiment with other citrus fruits like lemons or grapefruits for a refreshing twist on this classic recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store candied orange slices in an airtight container.
• They will last up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
• Layer between parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Candied Orange Slices

• Place slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen slices into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating Candied Orange Slices

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and warm the slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a non-stick skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some popular questions about candied orange slices that might help you enjoy this delightful treat even more.

Can I use other citrus fruits for candied slices?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on oranges, you can use lemons, limes, or grapefruits for unique flavors. Each fruit will bring its own character to the candy.

How do I know when my candied orange slices are done?

Candied orange slices should become translucent and slightly sticky when they are finished cooking. This indicates that they have absorbed enough syrup.

Can I use less sugar in candied orange slices?

Reducing sugar may affect the texture and preservation of your candied oranges. However, you can experiment with sugar substitutes if desired, keeping in mind that sweetness may vary.

How long do homemade candied orange slices last?

When stored properly, homemade candied orange slices can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Candied orange slices are not just a treat; they’re versatile additions that enhance many dishes from desserts to cheese platters. Their bright flavor and chewy texture make them irresistible. Feel free to customize with spices or try different fruits for exciting variations. Enjoy making these delightful bites of sunshine!

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Candied Orange Slices

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Candied orange slices are a delightful treat that can brighten up any dish or stand alone as a sweet snack. These chewy, zesty bites are made by simmering fresh oranges in a sugary syrup, resulting in a vibrant and flavorful addition to desserts, cheese boards, or even breakfast dishes. The process is simple and offers an opportunity to create memorable moments in the kitchen. Whether you’re garnishing a cake or enjoying them straight from the jar, these homemade candied oranges are sure to add a splash of sunshine to your day.

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 fresh oranges
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Rinse the oranges under running water and cut into thin rounds (0.25 inches thick), discarding any seeds.
2. Boil the orange slices in a pot of water for about 10 minutes until softened.
3. In another saucepan, combine sugar, water, and vanilla extract over medium heat until it becomes clear and bubbly.
4. Add the boiled orange slices into the syrup and simmer on low heat for about 1 hour until translucent.
5. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the slices onto parchment-lined baking sheets and let cool completely.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 orange slices (30g)
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Choose ripe oranges for maximum flavor. Ensure uniform slicing for even cooking. Experiment with spices like cinnamon or ginger for added flavor variations.