Candied Orange Slices are a dazzling treat that perfectly capture the bright, tangy essence of fresh oranges with a shimmering, sugary coat that delights both the eyes and the palate. This recipe transforms simple orange slices into a citrusy candy that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking to add a stunning garnish to desserts, a sweet snack, or an elegant touch to gifts, these Candied Orange Slices bring a burst of sunshine to any occasion with their vibrant color and irresistible sweet-tart balance.

Candied Orange Slices Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on making Candied Orange Slices is refreshingly simple. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: the sugar creates the glossy, sweet coating, water helps dissolve and cook the sugar evenly, and fresh oranges provide that essential citrus brightness and texture. Together, they create magic in the kitchen without any fuss.

White granulated sugar (3 cups/600 grams): This is the backbone of the syrup, creating that perfect crystallized sweetness and shine.
Water (3 cups/709 ml): Helps dissolve the sugar and simmer the orange slices gently without harsh cooking.
Small oranges or tangelos (3, sliced into 18-20 thin slices): Fresh, juicy oranges bring vibrant color, natural citrus oils, and chewable texture to the candied slices.

How to Make Candied Orange Slices

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

Begin by combining the sugar and water in a large saucepan or a 12-inch skillet. Place it over medium-high heat and watch carefully as the sugar dissolves completely into the water. Stir occasionally to help everything blend seamlessly. This stage is key because a fully melted sugar base ensures the oranges soak up the syrup evenly.

Step 2: Add Orange Slices to the Simmering Syrup

Once your syrup is boiling, reduce the heat to medium and carefully place your orange slices into the pan. Avoid overcrowding; give each slice space so the syrup can swirl around evenly, coaxing the slices to become tender and translucent. This gentle simmer is where the magic of candying citrus happens.

Step 3: Simmer Until Translucent

Let the orange slices cook for approximately 44 to 60 minutes. You’ll notice the white pith of the peel slowly becoming almost translucent. This delicate transformation means the slices have absorbed enough syrup to become both tender and sweet without turning bitter. Don’t forget to flip them with tongs occasionally to make sure both sides soak up that luscious syrup.

Step 4: Dry the Candied Orange Slices

Remove the delicate slices from the syrup with tongs and arrange them in a single layer on a wire rack. This step is essential because it allows excess syrup to drip away and the slices to set properly. Leave them uncovered at room temperature for 24 to 48 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when they feel tacky to the touch but hold their shape, almost like gummy candy.

How to Serve Candied Orange Slices

Garnishes

Candied Orange Slices are glamorous garnishes that instantly elevate desserts such as chocolate tarts, cheesecakes, or even cocktails. Their glossy, jewel-like appearance and sweet citrus flavor add that wow factor and a burst of freshness, creating an irresistible combination of flavors and textures on any dish.

Side Dishes

Pairing them alongside cheese platters is a delicious way to enjoy Candied Orange Slices. The sweetness contrasts beautifully with sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or blue cheese, adding complexity and balance. They also complement roasted meats or holiday spreads as a bright and sticky counterbalance.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the traditional—try threading Candied Orange Slices onto skewers with other dried fruits for an edible centerpiece that’s bursting with color. You can also crush them to sprinkle over ice cream or baked goods, delivering a crunchy, citrusy surprise in every bite. Wrapping them in cellophane tied with ribbon can make charming homemade gifts that look as delightful as they taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Candied Orange Slices are fully dried, transfer them to an airtight container and store at room temperature. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two weeks, maintaining their chewy texture and bright flavor without any fuss.

Freezing

If you want to keep the joy of Candied Orange Slices longer, freezing is an option, although it’s best for short-term storage. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last for a month or so, but thaw gently to avoid moisture ruining the texture.

Reheating

Usually, Candied Orange Slices are enjoyed as-is, but if you want to warm them slightly—perhaps to enhance their glossy finish or soften them before adding to a dessert—place them in a warm oven (about 200°F/90°C) for a few minutes. Keep a close eye so they don’t caramelize or burn further.

FAQs

Can I use other citrus fruits besides oranges?

Absolutely! Lemons, limes, or even grapefruits can be candied using this method. Each fruit offers a unique flavor profile and varying bitterness, so adjust cooking times slightly to achieve the perfect translucency.

Do I need organic oranges for this recipe?

It’s best to use organic or unwaxed oranges since you’ll be candying the whole slice, peel and all. Conventional oranges with wax coatings might not absorb the syrup well and could affect the texture.

How thin should I slice the oranges?

Aim for about 1/8 inch thick slices. Thinner slices candy more easily and dry faster while still holding their shape beautifully without becoming too fragile.

Can I skip the drying step?

The drying step is crucial for Candied Orange Slices to set properly and develop that perfect chewy texture. Skipping it means the slices will remain sticky and wet, which can affect presentation and shelf life.

How long does the candying process take?

From simmering to drying, expect the entire process to take about two to three days. The simmering stage is around an hour, while drying can take up to 48 hours but is well worth the patience for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly charming about making Candied Orange Slices at home. They bring brightness, sweetness, and artistry to your kitchen projects and celebrations. Whether you’re garnishing a dessert, gifting them in pretty packs, or snacking on them straight, these vibrant slices capture the essence of sunny citrus in a way that’s simply irresistible. Go ahead and try this recipe—you’ll be amazed at how such a handful of humble ingredients can create something stunning and delicious.

Candied Orange Slices Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 14 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 24-48 hours (including drying time)
Yield: Approximately 18–20 candied orange slices 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Candied orange slices are a delightful treat made by simmering orange slices in a sugar syrup until tender and translucent, then drying them to a chewy, gummy candy texture. Perfect for garnishing desserts, adding to cocktails, or enjoying as a sweet snack.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Sugar Syrup

3 cups (600 grams) white granulated sugar
3 cups (709 ml / 24 ounces) water

For the Candied Oranges

3 small oranges or tangelos, sliced into 18–20 thin slices

Instructions

Make the sugar syrup: Combine the sugar and water in a 12-inch skillet or large saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is fully dissolved into the water.
Add the orange slices: Reduce the heat to medium and carefully place the orange slices in the syrup without overcrowding them, allowing each slice to have some space and minimal overlap.
Simmer the oranges: Let the slices cook gently in the syrup for 44 to 60 minutes, turning them occasionally with tongs to ensure even cooking until the white pith becomes nearly translucent and tender.
Remove and dry: Use tongs to lift the slices out of the syrup and place them in a single layer on a wire rack. Allow them to air dry uncovered at room temperature for 24 to 48 hours until they are tacky but firm and gummy-like in texture.

Notes

Use thin slices for more even candying and drying.
Store candied orange slices in an airtight container once fully dried to maintain freshness.
These can be used to garnish cakes, cocktails, or enjoyed as a sweet treat on their own.
Patience is key as the drying process takes up to 48 hours.
Use organic oranges if possible to avoid pesticide residues on the peel.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Candy/Sweets
Method: Simmering and drying
Cuisine: American