As a kid, I remember my grandma making the most incredible candied orange slices. The scent of citrus and sugar would waft through her kitchen, instantly filling the air with warmth and nostalgia. I’d watch in awe as she carefully arranged the glistening orange rounds on a plate, their vibrant hues almost too beautiful to eat. But of course, I could never resist popping one in my mouth, savoring the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Those candied orange slices were more than just a snack – they were a cherished family tradition, a moment of pure joy in the midst of the everyday.
Why This Candied Orange Slices Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Candied Orange Slices
To this day, I still crave those delectable candied orange slices, and I’ve spent years perfecting my own recipe. What sets this version apart is the attention to detail – from the precise slicing of the oranges to the careful simmering in the sugar syrup. The result is a candied treat that’s not only visually stunning but also bursting with an intensely concentrated citrus flavor. The secret lies in the slow cooking process, which allows the natural sugars in the oranges to caramelize and create a delightfully chewy texture.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
At the heart of this recipe are three simple ingredients: 2 large oranges, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds; 1 cup of granulated sugar; and 1 cup of water. The oranges provide the vibrant, tangy foundation, while the sugar and water work together to create a luscious, syrupy coating. It’s this perfect balance of sweet and tart that makes these candied orange slices so irresistible.
Step-by-Step Candied Orange Slices Instructions
Preparing Your Candied Orange Slices
With a total time of 55 minutes – 15 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of cooking – this recipe is a breeze to make. All you’ll need is a sharp knife, a saucepan, and a bit of patience.
1- Begin by slicing your 2 large oranges into 1/4-inch thick rounds, discarding any end pieces. This thickness is crucial, as it ensures the orange slices will cook evenly and develop the perfect chewy texture.
2- In a saucepan, combine the 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar has fully dissolved.
3- Carefully add the orange slices to the simmering sugar syrup, ensuring they’re all submerged. Allow the slices to cook for about 40 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they’ve become translucent and the syrup has thickened.
4- Keep a close eye on the slices, looking for the moment when they’ve developed a beautiful amber hue and a delightfully chewy texture. The aroma of the candied orange will be positively intoxicating!
5- Using a slotted spoon, gently transfer the cooked orange slices to a wire rack or parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing any excess syrup to drip off.
6- Finally, let the candied orange slices cool completely before serving. Arrange them on a platter or in an airtight container – these delectable treats are ready to be enjoyed!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your candied orange slices turn out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips:
- Use the freshest, juiciest oranges you can find. The quality of the fruit is key to achieving that intense citrus flavor.
- Be patient during the simmering process. Resist the urge to crank up the heat, as slow, gentle cooking is essential for the slices to caramelize and develop their signature texture.
- Keep a watchful eye on the slices, turning them occasionally, to ensure even cooking. You want them to be translucent and slightly pliable, not hard or brittle.
- Let the finished slices cool completely before handling or storing. This helps them maintain their shape and texture.
Serving and Storing Your Candied Orange Slices
Perfect Pairings for Candied Orange Slices
These candied orange slices are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. With 12 servings, you’ll have plenty to share. They make a wonderful addition to a cheese board, offering a sweet contrast to savory cheeses and crackers. For a refreshing beverage pairing, try serving them alongside a crisp white wine or a cup of hot tea.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
The best part? Candied orange slices keep beautifully. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can either serve them chilled or briefly reheat them in a warm oven for a few minutes to revive their glistening texture.
If you want to get a head start, you can even make these candied orange slices up to 1 month in advance and store them in the freezer. Just be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before serving. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll always have a delightful homemade treat on hand to brighten your day.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Candied Orange Slices
Creative Candied Orange Slices Variations
While this classic candied orange slices recipe is already a showstopper, you can easily put your own spin on it. For a festive touch, try adding a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a hint of vanilla extract to the sugar syrup. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits, such as grapefruit or lemon, to create unique flavor profiles.
Making Candied Orange Slices Diet-Friendly
If you’re looking to make this recipe a bit more diet-friendly, you can try substituting the granulated sugar with a calorie-free sweetener like erythritol or xylitol. For a vegan version, simply use a plant-based sugar alternative. And for a gluten-free option, be sure to check that your sweetener of choice is gluten-free. With a few simple swaps, you can enjoy the delicious taste of candied orange slices without the guilt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of orange instead of the large ones in the recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can use a variety of orange types, such as Navel, Valencia, or even blood oranges. Just be sure to adjust the slicing thickness and cooking time as needed to achieve the perfect texture.
Q: How long does the total prep and cook time take for this recipe?
A: The total time for this recipe is 55 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of cooking time.
Q: How long can I store the candied orange slices?
A: The candied orange slices can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer-term storage, you can freeze them for up to 1 month.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 12 servings of candied orange slices.
Q: What if my orange slices aren’t getting as chewy as I’d like?
A: If your orange slices aren’t developing the desired chewy texture, try simmering them for a bit longer in the sugar syrup. The longer cooking time allows the natural sugars to caramelize, resulting in that perfect candied consistency.
Candied Orange Slices
- Total Time: 55
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the sweet and zesty delight of Candied Orange Slices – a quick and easy recipe that transforms fresh oranges into a delightful confection. These candied slices are the perfect snack, topping, or gift, with a balance of citrus and sweetness that will brighten your day.
Ingredients
– 2 large oranges, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
Instructions
1. Bring the water and sugar to a boil in a medium saucepan, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved.
2. Add the orange slices to the simmering sugar syrup and cook for 30-40 minutes, flipping the slices occasionally, until they are translucent and the syrup has thickened.
3. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the candied orange slices to a parchment-lined baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer.
4. Allow the slices to cool completely, then gently peel them off the parchment paper.
Notes
For a firmer, more crystallized texture, you can let the candied orange slices dry on the baking sheet for an additional 2-3 hours. Store the candied slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
These candied orange slices are a true delight – a sweet, tangy treat that’s bursting with the essence of fresh citrus. Whether you’re serving them as a special dessert, incorporating them into a cheese plate, or simply enjoying them as a guilt-free snack, I’m confident this recipe will become a new favorite in your household. So what are you waiting for? Give these candied orange slices a try and let me know how they turn out!
