If you’re ready to brighten your day with a treat that bursts with vibrant flavor, look no further than this Irresistible Sweet & Tangy Candied Orange Slices Recipe. These tender, jewel-like slices strike the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, offering a delightful chew with just the right hint of citrus zest. Whether you’re looking to elevate a dessert, sprinkle a unique accent on your cocktails, or simply enjoy a luscious snack, these candied oranges bring sunshine and sophistication in every bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become one of your favorite homemade delights to whip up again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity. The ingredients are straightforward but each plays a crucial role in creating that luscious texture and vibrant flavor profile that make the candied orange slices so unforgettable.
- 4 medium-sized oranges: Choose firm, bright oranges with thin peels for the best balance of sweetness and tang.
- 2 cups of sugar: Essential for creating the syrup that gently coats and sweetens the oranges.
- 2 cups of water: Combines with sugar to make the base syrup, helping the oranges soften and absorb sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Adds depth and a warm aromatic note that complements the citrus beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt: Just enough to enhance all the flavors and balance the sweetness perfectly.
How to Make Irresistible Sweet & Tangy Candied Orange Slices Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Slice the Oranges
Start by giving those oranges a good scrub to wash away any dirt or residues. Next, slice them into even 1/4-inch rounds; uniform slices mean they cook evenly and transform into those translucent little discs that are so visually stunning. Don’t forget to discard the ends because they tend to be tougher and more bitter.
Step 2: Blanch the Orange Slices
Pop the orange slices into a large pot of boiling water for about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is magical because it softens the peels and takes off some of that natural bitterness, making your final treat more pleasant and less sharp. Once blanched, quickly transfer them into an ice bath to halt the cooking process and keep them firm yet tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Syrup
Using the same pot, combine the sugar and water and bring it up to a gentle boil. Stir continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved, and then add the vanilla extract and salt. These additions give the syrup a lovely fragrant warmth and complexity, elevating every bite of the oranges.
Step 4: Simmer the Orange Slices
Lower the flame to keep the syrup at a gentle simmer, and carefully add the blanched orange slices. Let them soak and simmer for about 60 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure each slice absorbs the syrup evenly and becomes beautifully translucent — this is the hallmark of your Irresistible Sweet & Tangy Candied Orange Slices Recipe at work.
Step 5: Dry the Candied Slices
With tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer your syrup-soaked orange slices onto a cooling rack lined with parchment paper. Allow them to dry for at least 4 hours, or until they are sticky but not wet. This drying step is key to getting that perfect finish where they aren’t too gooey but still maintain their luscious chewiness.
Step 6: Enjoy and Store
Your candied oranges are now ready to bring joy! Enjoy them straight from the rack as an addictive snack, use them as eye-catching garnishes, or tuck them into your favorite desserts.
How to Serve Irresistible Sweet & Tangy Candied Orange Slices Recipe
Garnishes
These candied slices make stunning garnishes for cocktails like a classic Old Fashioned or sparkling prosecco. They also look gorgeous perched on top of cakes, cupcakes, or even a bowl of creamy ice cream. Their glossy, translucent appearance adds an unexpected and elegant flourish to any presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair your candied orange slices with cheeses such as sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or tangy goat cheese for a sophisticated cheese board addition. They also work beautifully alongside roasted meats where their citrus brightness can cut through richer flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the slices in a glass jar with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant display gift. Or dip the edges in dark chocolate and let them cool for an irresistible treat that combines sweet, tangy, and rich all in one bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover candied orange slices in an airtight container at room temperature, in a cool and dry space. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks, making them perfect to prepare ahead for special occasions.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to enjoy them fresh to maintain their tender texture. If you do freeze them, place the slices flat on a baking sheet first, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or bag to prevent sticking.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t usually necessary, but if you want to warm them slightly, a few seconds in a microwave or a very brief toss in a warm pan can help bring back that supple softness without melting the sugars too much.
FAQs
Can I use other citrus fruits for this recipe?
Absolutely! Lemons, limes, or grapefruits can be candied using this method, though the flavor and sweetness will vary. Adjust the sugar a bit depending on how tart the fruit is.
Why do I need to blanch the orange slices?
Blanching softens the peel and reduces bitterness, which creates a more pleasant eating experience in the final candied slices.
How long do the candied orange slices last?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay fresh for up to two weeks without losing flavor or texture.
Can I skip the vanilla extract?
While the vanilla adds a lovely depth, you can omit it if you prefer a purer citrus flavor — the slices will still taste fantastic.
Is it necessary to dry the orange slices for 4 hours?
Yes, drying allows excess syrup to evaporate so the slices finish with a sticky but not wet texture, which is key for their signature chewiness and attractiveness.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Irresistible Sweet & Tangy Candied Orange Slices Recipe enough for anyone craving a homemade treat that’s bursting with sunshine and flavor. It’s simple enough for a weekend kitchen adventure but elegant enough to impress guests or add stunning flair to your desserts. Give it a go—you’ll soon wonder how you ever enjoyed oranges any other way!
Print
Irresistible Sweet & Tangy Candied Orange Slices Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes plus 4 hours drying
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These irresistible sweet and tangy candied orange slices are a delightful treat made by simmering orange slices in a fragrant vanilla-infused sugar syrup until translucent and perfect for snacking, garnishing desserts, or cocktails.
Ingredients
Oranges
- 4 medium-sized oranges
Syrup
- 2 cups of sugar
- 2 cups of water
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Oranges: Thoroughly wash the oranges to remove any dirt or pesticides. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds, discarding the ends to ensure uniform slices for even cooking.
- Blanch the Orange Slices: Place the orange slices in a large pot of boiling water for 2-3 minutes to soften the peels and reduce bitterness. Then transfer them immediately to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- Make the Syrup: In the same pot, combine sugar and water and bring to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the vanilla extract and salt for added aroma and flavor.
- Simmer the Orange Slices: Reduce the heat and gently add the blanched orange slices to the syrup. Let them simmer uncovered for about 60 minutes, flipping occasionally to ensure they absorb the syrup evenly and become translucent.
- Dry the Candied Slices: Carefully remove the orange slices from the syrup and place them on a cooling rack lined with parchment paper. Allow them to dry for at least 4 hours until they are slightly sticky but not wet.
- Serve and Store: Enjoy the candied orange slices as a snack, dessert garnish, or cocktail decoration. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Use medium-sized oranges for the best balance of peel thickness and sweetness.
- Ensure orange slices are evenly cut to allow uniform cooking and texture.
- Drying time is important for achieving the right candied texture; avoid skipping this step.
- Store candied orange slices in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent stickiness.
- These slices can be used creatively in desserts, baked goods, or as a flavorful garnish in cocktails.
