Easy Candied Orange
Candied oranges have always held a special place in my heart, evoking sweet memories of holiday gatherings and cozy brunches. This easy recipe is not just about scrumptious flavors; it’s about infusing your kitchen with the delightful aroma of citrus while you whip up a treat perfect for garnishing desserts or enjoying as a snack. The simplicity of it makes it accessible, and you truly won’t believe how effortless and rewarding this process can be.
Discover Why This Recipe Is Worth Your Time
Why should you dive into making your own candied oranges? For starters, this recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it a fantastic option for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices. The combination of the sweet syrup and zesty oranges creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from festive celebrations to a mid-week dessert! Plus, it’s a budget-friendly way to use seasonal fruit to elevate your dishes.
“I made these candied oranges for my holiday dessert table, and they were a total hit! They add a gorgeous pop of color and flavor to everything.” — A Satisfied Baker
How Easy Candied Orange Comes Together
Making candied oranges is a blissfully simple process! You’ll start by slicing the oranges into thin rounds, which provides those beautiful, delicate pieces you’re going to enjoy. After that, you’ll create a sweet syrup and simmer the slices in it, allowing their natural flavors to shine through. Finally, you’ll dry the slices on a cooling rack, ready to be used as a delightful garnish or tasty treat!
What You’ll Need
To get started, gather these key ingredients for your easy candied oranges:
- 2 large oranges
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
These three ingredients come together to create something magical. You can also experiment with different types of citrus if you want a fun twist!
Directions to Follow

Now that you have everything ready, here’s how to make your candied oranges:
- Slice the Oranges: Cut the oranges into thin rounds, making sure to remove any seeds you encounter.
- Prepare the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1 cup of water. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Simmer Orange Slices: Gently add the orange slices into the syrup. Allow them to simmer for about 30 to 40 minutes. Turn the slices occasionally to ensure even coating.
- Cool the Slices: After simmering, use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the candied slices. Place them on a wire rack to cool and dry completely.
- Enjoy: Once the slices have dried, they’re ready to enjoy as a garnish on cakes or as a sweet snack!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These candied oranges are multifaceted in their uses! You can serve them as a striking garnish for your holiday cakes, sprinkle them over your morning oatmeal, or even mix them into a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with presentation – a simple platter can go a long way!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing your candied oranges properly can help extend their shelf life. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to consume them within a week. For longer storage, you can layer them with parchment paper in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to two weeks.
Pro Chef Tips
- Slice Uniformly: Ensure your orange slices are uniform in width to assure they cook evenly.
- Watch the Simmer: Keep a close eye on the simmering oranges; if they start to caramelize too much, lower the heat.
- Experiment with Flavor: Adding a pinch of sea salt or a splash of vanilla to the syrup can enhance the flavors!
Creative Twists
Want to switch it up? Here are some fun variations you can consider:
- Spiced Candied Oranges: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the syrup for warmth.
- Chocolate-Dipped Treats: Once the slices are cooled, dip half in melted dark chocolate for an indulgent treat.
- Lemon or Grapefruit: Substitute oranges for lemons or grapefruits for a tangy twist!
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to make candied oranges?
The total time, including slicing and simmering, is around 1 hour, making it a quick and enjoyable task.
Can I store candied oranges in the fridge?
Yes! For longer storage, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
What can I use instead of oranges?
You can try using lemons or limes, but keep in mind that they will offer a tangier flavor compared to sweet oranges.
Creating candied oranges is not just about adding a dash of sweetness; it’s about crafting a delightful culinary experience that can be shared and enjoyed. Enjoy your vibrant creations!

Candied Oranges
Ingredients
Method
- Slice the oranges into thin rounds, ensuring to remove any seeds.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1 cup of water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
- Gently add the orange slices into the syrup and allow them to simmer for about 30 to 40 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the candied slices and place them on a wire rack to cool and dry completely.
- Enjoy once the slices have dried, using them as a garnish or as a sweet snack.
