Candied Orange Peel Party Favor

Name: Candied Orange Peel Party Favor
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 4 large oranges; 2 cups sugar; 2 cups water; 1 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

Highlighted under: Celebration Table Recipes

When I first made candied orange peels, I was amazed at how easy it was to turn something so simple into a delightful treat. The glossy finish and the sweet citrus flavor create an irresistible snack or a charming party favor. I've often found that these chews are not only a hit at gatherings but also bring a touch of elegance when packaged nicely. With just a few ingredients, I can whip up a batch that adds a special touch to any occasion.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-02-14T17:14:19.240Z

Making candied orange peels has transformed my dessert game. I discovered that by simmering the peels in sugar syrup, I could create a sweet, chewy candy that contrasts beautifully with the slightly bitter zest of the orange. It was a joy to experiment with various coatings, such as dark chocolate or toasted coconut, which added a unique twist to traditional recipes.

Sharing these treats is always fun, especially when I package them in small jars tied with ribbon. They make charming gifts, and friends often ask for the recipe. One crucial tip I learned is ensuring the peels are dried thoroughly after cooking to enhance their shelf life!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The bright citrus flavor that elevates any dessert table.
Simple ingredients and steps make this a rewarding project.
They are perfect for gifting or adding a homemade touch to your parties.

Understanding the Ingredients

The main ingredient in this recipe, orange peels, are essential for imparting that bright citrus flavor. Selecting fresh, organic oranges can make a noticeable difference, as they are less likely to have wax coatings that can affect the final taste. When shopping, look for oranges that are firm, with a vibrant color. Their zest and aroma can greatly enhance the overall flavor profile of your candied peels, ensuring a delightful snacking experience.

Sugar plays a crucial role in this recipe—it transforms the bitter peels into a sweet delicacy. The initial 2 cups of sugar dissolve in water to create a simple syrup, which not only preserves the peels but also enhances their flavor through prolonged simmering. The granulated sugar coating at the end is vital for texture, providing a satisfying crunch that complements the chewy softness of the candied peels.

Perfecting the Blanching Technique

Blanching the orange peels is a crucial step that cannot be overlooked. This process reduces the bitterness of the peels, making them pleasant to eat. Blanching should be done three times to effectively draw out the bitter flavors. Each time, the boiling water also helps to soften the peels, making them tender enough to enjoy. Ensure that the water is at a rolling boil before adding the peels for best results.

After each blanch, rinsing the peels with cold water halts the cooking process and cools them down quickly. This technique not only helps maintain the right texture but also prepares them for optimal absorption of the syrup during the next step. If the peels remain too tough, the final product may lack the desirable chewiness, so pay close attention to their texture throughout this stage.

Tips for Storing and Gifting

Once your candied orange peels have cooled and dried, storage becomes an important consideration. To keep them fresh and maintain their flavor, store the peels in an airtight container at room temperature. If kept properly, they can last for several weeks; however, for longer storage, consider refrigerating them. Ensure that any moisture is removed before sealing, as humidity can lead to sticky clumping.

When gifting, consider using decorative jars or small boxes that reflect the thoughtfulness of your homemade treat. Layering them with wax paper can prevent them from sticking together. Including a personalized note with serving suggestions or pairing ideas—such as enjoying them with tea or using them as decoration for desserts—adds an extra touch and showcases your creativity.

Ingredients

Candied Orange Peels

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

Make sure to choose organic oranges for the best flavor and texture.

Instructions

Prepare Oranges

Wash oranges thoroughly to remove any wax. Slice off the top and bottom, then cut the oranges into quarters and remove the flesh, keeping only the peels. Cut the peels into thin strips.

Blanch the Peels

In a pot of boiling water, blanch the orange peel strips for 15 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Repeat this process two more times to reduce bitterness.

Make the Syrup

In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar and 2 cups of water. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves. Add the blanched peels and simmer for 45 minutes.

Dry and Coat

Using a slotted spoon, remove the peels from the syrup and let them cool on a wire rack for at least an hour. Once cooled, roll the peels in granulated sugar until well coated.

Store or Gift

Once dried completely, store the candied orange peels in an airtight container or package them in jars to give as gifts.

For a twist, consider dipping the cooled peels in chocolate.

Pro Tips

Experiment with other citrus fruits like lemon or grapefruit for different flavors.

Scaling the Recipe

This candied orange peel recipe is easily scalable, making it suitable whether you're preparing a batch for personal enjoyment or a large gathering. To double the recipe, simply multiply each ingredient accordingly and ensure that your pot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume, particularly during the boiling and simmering stages. Just be aware that you may need to adjust cooking times slightly, as larger quantities can take a bit longer to come to a boil or set properly.

If you're looking to experiment with flavors, you can also consider using different citrus fruits. Grapefruit, lemon, or lime peels can be substituted in varying proportions to introduce new taste dimensions. Just remember that the bitterness level varies among citrus fruits, so the blanching process may need slight adjustments in timing.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Although making candied orange peels is relatively straightforward, issues can arise. If your peels end up too sticky after cooling, this could be a sign that they were not dried sufficiently before being stored or coated in sugar. If this happens, spread them out on a wire rack and allow them to air dry for another few hours, then re-coat them in sugar. A thin coating of sugar is integral to creating that crunchy exterior and preventing clumping.

In contrast, if the peels are too tough, it likely indicates that they did not blanch long enough. During the initial blanching stages, check the texture at regular intervals. You want them to be soft enough to bend without breaking but still resilient. The right balance prevents them from becoming overly mushy in the syrup step, maintaining that perfect chewiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought orange peels?

Using fresh peels is recommended for the best flavor and texture.

→ How long do candied orange peels last?

If stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to two weeks.

→ Can I freeze candied orange peels?

Yes, they freeze well. Just ensure they are completely dry before freezing.

→ What can I do with leftover syrup?

The syrup can be used in cocktails, drizzled over desserts, or as a sweet addition to teas.