Candied orange slices represent a culinary tradition that transforms simple citrus into a gourmet delight with minimal effort and ingredients. The process, perfected over centuries, requires only oranges, sugar, and water to create treats that balance sweet and tangy flavors in perfect harmony. Anyone can master this technique at home, producing glossy, jewel-toned confections suitable for gifting, garnishing desserts, or enjoying as a standalone indulgence. What makes these three humble ingredients combine into something so extraordinarily versatile?
A Simple Technique With Sweet Rewards
Many home cooks overlook the simple pleasure of candied orange slices, a dessert that transforms ordinary citrus fruit into glistening, sweet delicacies. With just three basic ingredients—oranges, sugar, and water—anyone can create these treats that serve as both standalone snacks and elegant garnishes for more complex desserts.
Rediscover the neglected art of transforming simple citrus into jewel-like confections with just three pantry staples.
The process begins with selecting quality oranges, which can be Navel, Cara Cara, or Blood oranges, depending on personal preference. After thoroughly washing the fruit, the cook slices the oranges into rounds approximately 3-6 millimeters thick, removing any seeds that might impart bitterness. A brief initial boiling of the slices helps reduce their natural bitterness, after which the cooking water is discarded.
The magic happens when sugar and water combine to create a simple syrup, typically using 2-3 cups of sugar dissolved in a similar amount of water. The orange slices simmer gently in this syrup for 45-60 minutes, during which they should be occasionally stirred to prevent sticking and guarantee even coating.
Patience pays dividends here, as the transformation occurs gradually, with the white pith becoming increasingly translucent—the telltale sign of properly candied citrus.
Once removed from the syrup, the slices need time to dry, a process that can take up to 48 hours on a wire rack. For those seeking a quicker method, oven drying at approximately 180-200°F for about an hour accelerates the process. The finished product strikes a balance between chewy and firm, with a glossy finish that captures light beautifully.
These versatile treats contain about 44-83 calories per slice and will keep for 2-3 weeks when stored in airtight containers. The leftover syrup, infused with bright orange flavor, need not go to waste—it makes an excellent addition to cocktails or can be drizzled over other desserts.
For gift-giving occasions, a small box of these handcrafted candied orange slices, perhaps half-dipped in dark chocolate, offers a personalized touch that store-bought treats simply cannot match.
