Candied Orange Peel Sugar Dusted
Highlighted under: Cool Sweets Recipes
I absolutely love making candied orange peel when I want a sweet treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor. The process may seem a bit time-consuming, but it's totally worth it when you take that first bite. The combination of sugar and the natural citrus oil makes this recipe irresistible. Plus, these sweet little bites are perfect for decorating desserts or simply enjoying on their own. Let me show you how to transform simple orange peels into a delightful candy that you'll crave again and again.
During my last culinary adventure, I decided to experiment with candied orange peel. I had leftover oranges from a recent recipe, and I thought, why not use them instead of tossing them out? The length of time for simmering determines the texture—don’t rush this step for the best results!
After some trial and error, I found that brushing the peel with extra sugar at the end creates that perfect sugared finish. It adds a crunchy, sweet layer that contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture of the peel. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Sweet and tangy flavor that brightens your day
- Versatile ingredient for desserts, snacks, or gifts
- Simple ingredients and techniques yield impressive results
Understanding the Steps
The process of candying orange peels involves several key steps that transform the bitterness of the peel into sweet, tantalizing bites. Start by boiling the peels, as this is crucial for drawing out the bitterness. When you boil the strips, pay close attention to the texture; you want them to soften but not break apart. The texture should still have a bit of firmness after the initial boiling before proceeding to the syrup. This ensures that the final product has a satisfying chew.
After boiling, the sugar syrup is where the magic happens. Combining equal parts sugar and water creates a syrup that not only coats the peels but also infuses them with rich sweetness. It's important to keep the heat on a medium-low setting to avoid burning the syrup, which can create undesirable bitterness. Stir gently as it simmers for about 30 minutes, and watch for the peels to become translucent; this is a key sign that they are ready for the next step.
Tips for Perfect Results
One common issue when making candied orange peels can be achieving the right amount of sugar coating. To ensure a good dusting, let the peels stay on a wire rack for adequate drying time. Allow them to dry completely for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This not only helps in maintaining the sugar coating but also helps create a delightful contrasting texture; the exterior becomes slightly crunchy while the inside stays chewy and moist.
If you're looking for variations, consider substituting the oranges with other citrus fruits, like lemons or grapefruits. These can create interesting flavor profiles, and each fruit will infuse its unique essence into the final candy. Just remember that different fruits may alter the cooking time in the syrup, so be sure to watch them closely for the translucency indicator. Additionally, feel free to experiment by adding spices such as cinnamon or vanilla into the syrup for an aromatic twist.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients for this delightful treat.
Ingredients
- 2 large oranges
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- Extra sugar for dusting
Make sure to follow the steps carefully for best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your candied orange peel.
Prepare the Orange Peels
Start by washing the oranges thoroughly. Cut off the top and bottom, then slice the peels into strips, leaving a bit of the white pith attached for texture.
Boil the Peels
Place the peel strips in a pot of water and bring to a boil. Let it boil for 10 minutes, drain, and then repeat this process one more time to reduce bitterness.
Make the Sugar Syrup
In the same pot, combine 1 cup of water and 2 cups of sugar, stirring until dissolved. Add the boiled orange peels and simmer gently for 30 minutes until translucent.
Coat and Dry the Peels
Remove the peels from the syrup, making sure to shake off excess liquid. Roll them in extra sugar to coat and lay them out on a wire rack to dry for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Enjoy your homemade candied orange peels!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider infusing the sugar syrup with a touch of vanilla or a cinnamon stick while simmering.
Storage and Shelf Life
Once your candied orange peels are fully dried and coated, store them in an airtight container to maintain their texture. They can last up to two weeks at room temperature, but for longevity, you can refrigerate them, extending their life up to a month. If you notice any moisture, they might become sticky; to avoid this, ensure they are completely dry before storage, or consider tossing in a bit of extra sugar during storage to absorb moisture.
If you want to make a larger batch for gifts or special occasions, simply double or triple the ingredients. Just keep in mind that increasing the volume may require a larger pot for boiling and syrup preparation. Additionally, ensure they're dried appropriately to maintain consistency in texture and flavor. Homemade gifts like these are sure to impress, and they store well, making them a thoughtful treat for friends and family.
Serving Suggestions
Candied orange peels are delightful on their own, but their versatility really shines through when used as a garnish. Try tossing them into desserts like cakes, ice cream, or yogurt to elevate your treats with a burst of citrus flavor. They also work beautifully in a charcuterie board, adding a sweet contrast to cheeses and meats. Don't hesitate to get creative; chop them up and incorporate into cookies or muffins for an unexpected twist on classic recipes.
For a lovely presentation, consider drizzling the candied peels with dark chocolate after they've dried. The bitterness of the chocolate complements the sweetness beautifully, and they make for an elegant candy to enjoy or gift. Just let them set on parchment paper until the chocolate hardens, which can add a gourmet touch to your homemade treats!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other citrus fruits?
Absolutely! Lemon and grapefruit peels work great, just adjust the sugar levels to account for their tartness.
→ How should I store the candied orange peel?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to keep them fresh.
→ Can I chocolate dip these candied peels?
Definitely! Melt some chocolate and dip the dried peels for an indulgent treat.
→ What can I do with leftover syrup?
The leftover syrup is a delightful addition to cocktails or can be drizzled over desserts!
Candied Orange Peel Sugar Dusted
Created by: The Laurascookbook Team
Recipe Type: Cool Sweets Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 2 cups
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 large oranges
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- Extra sugar for dusting
How-To Steps
Start by washing the oranges thoroughly. Cut off the top and bottom, then slice the peels into strips, leaving a bit of the white pith attached for texture.
Place the peel strips in a pot of water and bring to a boil. Let it boil for 10 minutes, drain, and then repeat this process one more time to reduce bitterness.
In the same pot, combine 1 cup of water and 2 cups of sugar, stirring until dissolved. Add the boiled orange peels and simmer gently for 30 minutes until translucent.
Remove the peels from the syrup, making sure to shake off excess liquid. Roll them in extra sugar to coat and lay them out on a wire rack to dry for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider infusing the sugar syrup with a touch of vanilla or a cinnamon stick while simmering.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 10mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 48g
- Protein: 1g