Candied Orange Peel Artisan Candy
Highlighted under: Fruit Pies | Baked Goods
I love creating sweet treats that provide a burst of flavor, and this Candied Orange Peel Artisan Candy is no exception. The combination of juicy orange peels and a sweet syrup results in a delightful candy that’s both chewy and aromatic. Making this candy is a process, but the end result is definitely worth the effort. Plus, the vibrant orange color adds a beautiful touch to any dessert platter, making it perfect for gift-giving or personal indulgence during special occasions.
When I first tried making candied orange peel, I was amazed at how easily the natural oils of the orange zest came out during the cooking process, filling my kitchen with a heavenly aroma. The trick lies in simmering the peels gently in a sugar syrup, allowing them to become tender while still retaining their vibrant color and zest. This method brings out a lovely sweetness without overpowering the citrus flavor.
One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its versatility—I can use the candied peel as a garnish for cakes, mix it into chocolates, or simply enjoy them on their own. I’ve found that letting them dry completely before storage enhances their chewiness and ensures they don’t stick together, making them an ideal treat to have on hand for any occasion.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- The zesty freshness of ripe oranges in every bite
- A unique chewy texture that complements a variety of desserts
- Customizable sweetness to suit your taste preferences
Understanding the Peels
The choice of oranges plays a crucial role in the flavor and quality of candied orange peel. Organic oranges are ideal for this recipe, as they are less likely to have wax or pesticides on their skins. The vibrant zest from organic oranges translates to a more aromatic candy, enhancing the overall flavor profile. When selecting oranges, look for those that feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness, and have bright, unblemished skins.
When removing the peels, aim for long, even strips. This technique not only improves the visual appeal of your candied candy but also ensures a more consistent texture. If you accidentally include too much pith, don't worry; just boil the peels longer during the initial step to help reduce any lingering bitterness. This process is essential for achieving that delightful chewy texture.
Perfecting the Syrup
The syrup's consistency is key to successful candied orange peels. Ideally, the sugar syrup should be thick enough to coat the peels without being overly syrupy. When preparing the syrup, bring it to a rolling boil before adding the peels; this initial heat helps to dissolve the sugar quickly. A great tip is to stir until you see the mixture reach a glossy finish, which indicates the sugar is fully dissolved and ready for the peels.
During the candying process, keep an eye on the peels. You want them to become translucent but not overly soft. Simmer them for about 15-20 minutes in the syrup, turning them occasionally to ensure even coating. If they become too soft, they can lose their chewy texture, resulting in candy that’s overly sticky rather than delightfully chewy.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients before you start making your Candied Orange Peel:
Ingredients for Candied Orange Peel
- 4 large organic oranges
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- Pinch of salt
Ensure all ingredients are ready for best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Candied Orange Peel Artisan Candy:
Prepare the Oranges
Wash and thoroughly dry the oranges. Using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler, remove the outer layer of the peel in long strips, avoiding as much of the white pith as possible.
Boil the Peels
Place the orange peels in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes. This will reduce the bitterness of the peel.
Make the Syrup
In a separate saucepan, combine sugar, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Candy the Peels
Drain the peels and add them to the sugar syrup. Simmer on low heat for another 15-20 minutes, ensuring the peels are well coated and become translucent.
Dry the Candied Peels
Remove the peels from the syrup and place them on a cooling rack or parchment paper to dry for several hours or overnight.
Coat with Sugar (optional)
If desired, toss the dried peels in granulated sugar to enhance the sweetness and prevent them from sticking together.
Enjoy your homemade Candied Orange Peel as a delightful treat!
Pro Tips
- Make sure to use organic oranges to avoid pesticides in the peels. Feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits for varied flavors.
Storing and Gifting
Proper storage of your candied orange peels is essential for maintaining their texture and flavor. Once dried, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can last for several weeks if kept properly, making them suitable for holiday gifting or personal enjoyment. If you plan to use them later, consider vacuum-sealing them to extend their shelf life even further.
When gifting, consider presenting your candied orange peels in a beautiful jar, perhaps layered with some baking paper. Adding a small note with serving suggestions—like pairing them with chocolate or using them as a garnish for cocktails—can enhance the gift. This thoughtful touch shows the recipient that you’ve put effort into your treat.
Flavor Variations
While the classic orange flavor is delightful, you can easily experiment with other citrus fruits. Grapefruit, lemon, or tangerine peels can be candied using the same process with minor adjustments in syrup quantities to account for different sweetness levels. Each fruit brings its own unique character, adding complexity to your candy repertoire.
For an additional layer of flavor, consider infusing spices into the syrup, such as cinnamon or vanilla. Just add a cinnamon stick or a splash of vanilla extract during the syrup-making stage. This simple addition can elevate the taste of your candied orange peels, providing a warm undertone that's perfect for the cooler months.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought orange peel instead of fresh?
While it's possible, fresh orange peels yield better flavor and texture compared to pre-packaged options.
→ How should I store the candied orange peel?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also last longer if refrigerated.
→ Can I use other citrus fruits?
Absolutely! Lemon, grapefruit, and lime peels can also be candied using the same method.
→ What can I use candied orange peel for?
It's great for decorating cakes, adding to chocolate confections, or simply enjoying as a sweet snack.
Candied Orange Peel Artisan Candy
Created by: The Ximenabakes Team
Recipe Type: Fruit Pies | Baked Goods
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 20 pieces
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Candied Orange Peel
- 4 large organic oranges
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
Wash and thoroughly dry the oranges. Using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler, remove the outer layer of the peel in long strips, avoiding as much of the white pith as possible.
Place the orange peels in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes. This will reduce the bitterness of the peel.
In a separate saucepan, combine sugar, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Drain the peels and add them to the sugar syrup. Simmer on low heat for another 15-20 minutes, ensuring the peels are well coated and become translucent.
Remove the peels from the syrup and place them on a cooling rack or parchment paper to dry for several hours or overnight.
If desired, toss the dried peels in granulated sugar to enhance the sweetness and prevent them from sticking together.
Extra Tips
- Make sure to use organic oranges to avoid pesticides in the peels. Feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits for varied flavors.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 100 kcal
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 0g