Candied Orange Peel (Chocolate Covered) Recipe

Introduction

Candied orange peel is a delightful treat that balances sweet and slightly bitter flavors with a tender, chewy texture. This recipe offers a classic version with an optional chocolate coating, making it perfect for snacking or gifting during holidays.

Ingredients

• 3 oranges, preferably organic
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup sugar, plus more for coating
• 1 vanilla bean (optional)
• Chocolate (optional, for coating)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Gently wash the oranges under running water using a vegetable brush to clean the peel.
2. Step 2: Slice off a small piece from the top and bottom of each orange. Score each orange through the peel to the pith, making 4 lengthwise cuts without slicing into the fruit.
3. Step 3: Carefully remove each peel section and cut into 1/4-inch wide strips.
4. Step 4: Place the orange peel strips in a pot, cover with about an inch of water, bring to a boil, then drain using a colander. Repeat this blanching process once more.
5. Step 5: Return the peel strips to the pot. Add 2 cups water, 1 cup sugar, and the vanilla bean if using. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 30–35 minutes until the peels become translucent and most syrup evaporates. Turn off the heat and let peels cool in the syrup for 5 minutes.
6. Step 6: Using tongs, transfer the peels to a drying rack set over parchment paper. Let them dry for at least 8 hours, preferably 24 hours.
7. Step 7: Toss the dried peels in additional granulated sugar. If desired, dip them into melted chocolate and let cool until the chocolate firms.
8. Step 8: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips & Variations

• Use organic oranges to avoid pesticides since you will be eating the peel.
• For extra flavor, try adding a cinnamon stick or star anise to the simmering syrup.
• Chocolate coating adds richness, but the peel is delicious on its own if you prefer a lighter treat.
• Make sure to dry the peels thoroughly to prevent stickiness and improve shelf life.

Storage

Store candied orange peel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If coated in chocolate, keep them in a cool place to avoid melting. To enjoy, let them come to room temperature before serving. They do not require reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular oranges instead of organic?

While you can use regular oranges, organic is recommended since you eat the peel and it reduces exposure to pesticides and wax.

How long can I keep candied orange peel?

Stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, candied orange peel lasts about two weeks. For best flavor and texture, consume within this period.

Candied Orange Peel (Chocolate Covered) Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 56 reviews

Delight in these homemade candied orange peels, beautifully coated in sugar and optionally dipped in rich chocolate. This recipe uses organic oranges for a fresh, natural flavor, simmered until translucent and sweet, then dried to perfection. Perfect as a sweet snack, garnish, or gift, the candy combines citrus brightness with a satisfying sugary crunch and optional chocolate decadence.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 8 hours 55 minutes
• Yield: About 3 cups (approximately 12 servings of 4 pieces each) 1x
• Category: Candy
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Orange Peel Preparation

• 3 organic oranges (recommended for edible peel)

Syrup and Candying

• 2 cups water
• 1 cup sugar, plus extra for coating
• 1 vanilla bean (optional)

Chocolate Coating (Optional)

• Chocolate for dipping (quantity as desired)

Instructions

1. Wash the Oranges: Gently wash the oranges under running water using a vegetable brush to remove any debris and residues since the peel will be consumed.
2. Prepare the Peel: Slice off a small amount from the top and bottom of each orange. Score each orange with 4 lengthwise cuts through the peel and pith, avoiding cutting into the fruit, then carefully remove the peel sections and cut them into 1/4-inch wide strips.
3. Blanch the Peel: Place the orange peel strips in a pot, cover with about an inch of water, bring to a boil, then drain through a colander. Repeat this boiling and draining process one more time to reduce bitterness.
4. Simmer in Sugar Syrup: Return the peel strips to the pot, add 2 cups water, 1 cup sugar, and the optional vanilla bean. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 30-35 minutes until peels are slightly translucent and most syrup has evaporated. Turn off heat and let the peel rest in the syrup for 5 minutes.
5. Dry the Peel: Using tongs, transfer the peel strips onto a drying rack placed over parchment paper. Allow them to dry for at least 8 hours, preferably 24 hours, to develop a firm, candy-like texture.
6. Coat and Optionally Chocolate Dip: Coat the dried orange peels in additional granulated sugar. If desired, dip each strip in melted chocolate and let cool until the chocolate hardens.
7. Storage and Serving: Enjoy immediately for the freshest taste or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

Notes

• Use organic oranges since you eat the peel to avoid pesticides.
• Blanching the peel twice reduces bitterness significantly.
• Drying time greatly affects the texture; longer drying yields chewier candy.
• Chocolate dipping is optional, but adds a delicious rich contrast.
• Store candied peel in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Keywords: candied orange peel, chocolate covered orange peel, homemade candy, citrus candy, orange peel snack