Candied Orange Peel Twists

Name: Candied Orange Peel Twists
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 10 servings
Ingredients: 4 large oranges; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

Highlighted under: Fruit Pies | Baked Goods

When I first tried making candied orange peel twists, I was amazed by how easy they were to create at home. The aroma of sweet citrus fills the kitchen, making it a delightful experience from start to finish. Thick strips of orange peel are transformed into a sweet treat that adds a surprising burst of flavor to desserts or can be enjoyed on their own. I love experimenting with sugar cooking techniques, and these twists are a delicious result that showcases the natural sweetness of oranges in a fun and zesty way.

Created by

The Ximenabakes Team

Last updated on 2026-03-18T16:58:26.254Z

Making candied orange peel twists was a delightful surprise! I initially thought it would be a complex process, but it turned out to be quite straightforward. By simmering the peels in a sugar syrup, I was able to soften them and infuse them with sweetness. A little patience was key, especially during the drying phase, as it really enhances the texture and flavor of the twists.

One tip I discovered is to use organic oranges whenever possible. They tend to have thicker peels with more natural flavor and less wax, making the final treat even more enjoyable. Plus, I love the vibrant color they add to the finished product!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Bright citrus flavor in every bite
Delightfully chewy texture that satisfies
Versatile for snacking or as a garnish

Mastering the Blanching Process

Blanching the orange peels is a key technique that not only brightens the color but also reduces the bitterness that can linger in the skin. During the blanching process, make sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the peels to ensure they soften evenly. After boiling for five minutes, immediately drain the peels and transfer them to cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is crucial to achieve a delightful balance of flavors in your final product.

To effectively minimize the bitterness, it’s often recommended to blanch the peels three times. Each time you blanch, the peels become progressively less bitter, resulting in a more enjoyable final product. If you find that they are still too bitter after three rounds, you might consider a fourth blanching; however, usually, three rounds will suffice. This attention to detail will enhance the final flavor and texture of your candied orange peel twists.

Choosing the Right Sugar and Its Role

Granulated sugar is the ideal choice for this recipe as it not only sweetens but also helps in creating the syrup that will candy the peels. The ratio of sugar to water is also crucial; maintaining a 2:1 ratio enhances the syrup’s thickness, allowing the sugar to crystallize around the peels effectively. If you want to experiment, consider using a part brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like flavor, which will introduce a new layer of richness to the candy.

While coating the cooled peels in sugar, ensure they are slightly tacky; this will help the sugar adhere better. If the peels feel too dry, lightly mist them with water before coating. Alternatively, for a flavored twist, consider rolling them in a mixture of sugar and spices like cinnamon or cardamom, but keep it subtle to allow the orange flavor to shine through.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started on your candied orange peel twists.

Ingredients

4 large oranges
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

With all your ingredients ready, it's time to start making your delicious candied orange peel twists!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your candied orange peel twists perfectly.

Prepare the Oranges

Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any wax. Cut off the ends and slice the oranges into quarters, then remove the flesh to leave just the peels.

Blanch the Peels

Place the orange peels in a pot of boiling water and blanch for 5 minutes. Drain and repeat the process two more times to reduce bitterness.

Make the Sugar Syrup

In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of water. Heat until the sugar dissolves, creating a simple syrup.

Candy the Peels

Add the blanched peels to the syrup and simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes until they become translucent.

Dry and Coat

Remove peels from the syrup and let them cool slightly. Roll them in the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar to coat and then lay them out on a baking rack to dry completely, about 4 hours.

Enjoy your homemade candied orange peel twists as a sweet treat or a delightful topping for desserts!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider infusing the syrup with vanilla or ginger while cooking the peels. This adds layers of complexity to each bite.

Storage Tips

Once your candied orange peels are completely dry, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for several weeks if kept in a cool, dry place. Make sure to add parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. If you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating them to prolong their shelf life.

For longer storage, you can freeze the candied peels. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they won’t clump together, and you can easily grab a few at a time for snacking or baking.

Serving Suggestions

These candied orange peel twists work wonderfully as a standalone treat, but their versatility shines when used as a garnish. Add them to desserts like cakes, pastries, or even ice cream for a burst of color and flavor. They can also elevate your charcuterie board when paired with cheeses and cured meats, offering guests a unique taste experience.

For a creative twist, chop the candied peels into smaller pieces to add to your homemade granola or trail mix. The zesty flavor will complement the nuts and other dried fruits beautifully, enhancing your snacking options. I often use these twists in holiday baking, where their bright color and flavor make them an ideal addition to festive cookies or cakes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other citrus fruits?

Yes, you can make candied peel with lemons, limes, or grapefruits, but adjust the sugar to taste as some fruits are more tart.

→ How long do candied orange peels last?

When stored in an airtight container, they can last up to 2 months in a cool, dry place.

→ Can I dip the twists in chocolate?

Absolutely! Dipping them in dark or white chocolate can add a luxurious touch to your candied orange peels.

→ What is the best way to store leftover syrup?

You can store leftover syrup in the refrigerator for up to a month and use it in cocktails or other desserts.