Candied Orange Peel (Chocolate Covered) Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
