Candied Orange Peel Citrus Confetti

Name: Candied Orange Peel Citrus Confetti
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 1 cup
Ingredients: 2 large oranges (preferably organic); 2 cups water; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

Highlighted under: Cookie Jar Recipes

I’ve always been enchanted by the vibrant burst of flavors that candied citrus peel adds to desserts and snacks. Making candied orange peel at home is easier than I ever imagined, and the result is both visually stunning and incredibly tasty. It’s a delightful way to use up orange peels, and the sweet yet zesty flavor enhances a variety of dishes. I love using this as a topping for cakes or in a fresh fruit salad, bringing a splash of color and a hint of brightness to everything it touches.

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-02-14T15:25:19.550Z

During my first attempt at making candied orange peel, I was amazed at how simple the process was. By simmering the peels in sugar syrup, I transformed what would typically be discarded into a sweet, chewy treat. I experimented with the cooking time to get the perfect balance of tenderness and chewiness, which I have found makes all the difference.

Sharing these delightful treats with friends turned into a fun tradition. I found that pairing candied orange peel with dark chocolate creates a luxurious experience. It’s important to let the peels cool completely before storing them, ensuring they retain their delightful texture and flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty orange flavor with a sweet finish
Perfect for garnishing desserts or enjoying on their own
Easy-to-follow steps, perfect for beginners

Understanding the Ingredients

Using organic oranges for this recipe is highly recommended. Organic oranges tend to have thicker peels, which can hold up better during the candying process and impart a more intense flavor. The oils in the peel, which are rich in aromatic compounds, contribute significantly to the final taste. If organic options aren’t available, make sure to wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any wax or pesticides that might interfere with the candying process.

The granulated sugar plays a crucial role in the texture and flavor of the candied peels. When dissolved in water to create the syrup, it helps draw moisture out of the peel while simultaneously infusing sweetness. If you're looking to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar alternative; however, be aware that this could affect the final texture and how well the peels candy. Natural sweeteners like honey or agave can work, but their flavors may lean more floral than citrus.

Perfecting the Candying Technique

Blanching the peels is an essential step to remove bitterness and ensure a pleasant taste. Make sure to time each blanching session—not more than 5 minutes—so the peels don’t overcook and become too soft. Keeping an eye on the color is important; they should be bright and shiny after each blanch. If they still taste bitter after the third blanch, you can repeat the process, but be cautious of losing too much of the peel’s natural flavor.

When simmering the peels in the sugar syrup, low heat is vital. This slow cooking allows the sugar to penetrate the peel and create a chewy, candy-like texture. Check for doneness by looking for a translucent appearance; the peels should look glossy and slightly sticky. If they seem too tough, you can cook them longer, but monitor closely to avoid breaking down the structure entirely.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own candied orange peel:

Candied Orange Peel Ingredients

2 large oranges (preferably organic)
2 cups water
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

That’s it! These simple ingredients come together to create a delicious treat.

Steps

Follow these easy steps to make your candied orange peel:

Prepare the Oranges

Wash the oranges thoroughly and cut them into quarters. Carefully remove the flesh from the peel, leaving only the outer layer. Cut the peels into thin strips.

Blanch the Peels

Place the peels in a pot of boiling water and blanch for about 5 minutes. Drain and repeat this process two more times to remove bitterness.

Make the Sugar Syrup

In a separate pot, combine 2 cups of water and 2 cups of sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.

Candy the Peels

Add the blanched peels to the sugar syrup. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 45-60 minutes, until the peels are tender and translucent.

Coat the Peels

Remove the peels from the syrup and let them cool on a wire rack. Once cool, toss the peels in the additional cup of sugar to coat them completely.

Store and Enjoy

Once coated, store the candied orange peels in an airtight container. Enjoy them in desserts or as a sweet snack!

Now that you have your candied orange peels, you can delight in their sweet flavor!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider infusing the sugar syrup with spices like cinnamon or ginger during the cooking process.

Storage Tips

Once you've coated the candied peels with sugar, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for about two weeks but will be freshest when consumed within the first few days. Avoid refrigerating them, as moisture can make them sticky and lose their texture. Instead, consider layering parchment paper between the pieces if you stack them to prevent sticking.

For longer storage, you can also freeze the candied peels. Place them in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with wax paper. When you're ready to use them, there’s no need to thaw; they can be added directly to recipes for a delightful burst of flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Candied orange peels are incredibly versatile. They make a stunning garnish for cakes like chocolate or vanilla, adding a pop of color and a zesty contrast. I often chop them finely and mix them into cookie dough for an unexpected twist on traditional recipes. Additionally, incorporating them into yogurt or oatmeal provides a bright flavor enhancement to your breakfast.

For a fun treat, consider dipping the coated peels in dark chocolate after they have cooled. This adds another layer of complexity to their flavor profile, creating a sweet and slightly bitter combination that is simply irresistible. They're great for gifting too; package them beautifully for a homemade present that is sure to impress!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other citrus peels?

Yes! Lemon, lime, and grapefruit peels can also be candied using this method.

→ How long do candied orange peels last?

When stored in an airtight container, they can last for several weeks.

→ Can I freeze candied orange peels?

Yes, freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag works well.

→ What can I use candied orange peel for?

They are great for topping desserts, mixing into baked goods, or even as a garnish for cocktails.