Candied Orange Peel with Brown Sugar
Highlighted under: Tasty Pastries
I love indulging in sweet treats that bring a burst of flavor, and Candied Orange Peel with Brown Sugar does just that! It’s a delightful way to transform simple orange peels into a chewy, sweet snack that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can enjoy the sweet and tangy taste of oranges paired with the rich, caramelized flavor of brown sugar. It's perfect for snacking, garnishing desserts, or even giving as a gift!
When I first tried making Candied Orange Peel, I was surprised by how easy it was to craft something so delicious from simple fruit scraps! After several rounds of experimentation, I discovered that boiling the peels in water twice not only helps remove any bitterness but also preps them perfectly for the candying process.
Adding brown sugar instead of white creates a deeper caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with the citrus notes of the oranges. I recommend using organic oranges to avoid any pesticides, ensuring a clean, sweet treat that you can feel good about enjoying.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, zesty flavor with a hint of caramel
- Perfectly chewy texture that satisfies
- Versatile as a snack, garnish, or gift
The Importance of Boiling
Boiling the orange peels multiple times is crucial for achieving the right flavor balance. The first boil helps to soften the peels, while the subsequent boils work to remove the bitterness from the pith. If you skip this step or don’t boil long enough, the final product may still have an unpleasant bitter aftertaste. Aim for about 15 minutes total, but feel free to taste a piece of peel after each boiling to find that sweet spot.
Using fresh and high-quality oranges will significantly enhance the flavor of your candied peels. Look for oranges that are firm to the touch, with vibrant skin, as this indicates freshness. Additionally, organic oranges are preferable since they typically have fewer pesticides that you don’t want in your final product. If you have to use conventionally grown oranges, make sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any wax or residues.
Getting the Right Texture
The texture of candied orange peels is a fine balance between chewy and tender. When you simmer the peels in the brown sugar syrup, ensure you're on low heat to avoid burning the sugar. This low, slow cooking also allows the peels to absorb the syrup, becoming sticky and slightly glossy. Aim for a simmer time of around 45 minutes, but keep an eye on them; they should be translucent when done. If your peels seem too hard after cooling, they may have been overcooked; in the future, reduce your simmering time slightly.
Coating the cooled peels in granulated sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps to create a pleasant texture. When tossing the peels in sugar, make sure they aren’t too wet—this helps prevent clumping. I find using a shallow bowl works best for even coating. Make sure each piece is well covered, as the sugar creates a delightful crunch against the chewy peels.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your candied orange peel:
Ingredients
- 3 medium oranges
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
Make sure to save the leftover syrup for drizzling over pancakes or desserts!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your own delightful candied orange peels:
Prepare the Orange Peels
Wash the oranges thoroughly under cool water. Cut off both ends of each orange, then slice the peel into 1/4-inch wide strips. Remove as much of the white pith as possible, as this can be quite bitter.
Boil the Peels
Place the peel strips in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then drain and repeat twice to help reduce bitterness. This process should take about 15 minutes.
Candy the Peels
In the same saucepan, combine the brown sugar and 1 cup of fresh water. Add the boiled orange peels, then simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes, or until the peels become translucent and sticky.
Coat the Peels
Remove the peels from the syrup and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Once cooled, toss them in granulated sugar until evenly coated.
Store or Serve
Store the candied orange peels in an airtight container at room temperature. They make a delightful treat on their own or can be used to garnish cakes and desserts.
Enjoy your homemade candied orange peels as a snack or a delightful addition to your desserts!
Pro Tips
- Experiment by adding cinnamon or vanilla to the boiling syrup for added flavor. You can also dip the cooled peels in dark chocolate for a decadent treat!
Storage Tips
To keep your candied orange peels fresh and flavorful, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can typically last for about one to two weeks. If you live in a more humid climate, consider refrigerating them to extend shelf life, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving. If you do see any moisture forming, you may want to refinish the sugar coating by tossing them again in granulated sugar to restore that delightful crunch.
For longer storage, you can freeze the candied peels. Lay them flat on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a ziplock bag or airtight container. They can last for several months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, there’s no need to thaw; just add them directly to your favorite recipes or enjoy them as a cold snack!
Serving Suggestions
Candied orange peels are incredibly versatile! You can eat them straight as a sweet snack, or they make an elegant garnish for cakes and desserts. Consider using them to top a chocolate cake, adding a citrusy brightness and appeal. They also pair wonderfully with cheese; serve them alongside a cheese platter for a sophisticated touch.
If you’re feeling adventurous, chop the candied peels and incorporate them into your baked goods. They can add a delightful zing to scones, muffins, or even quick breads. My favorite way is to mix them into frosting for an unexpected citrus flavor that pairs perfectly with cream cheese or buttercream.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other citrus fruits?
Absolutely! Grapefruit, lemon, or even lemon-lime can be used for similar results.
→ How long do the candied peels last?
When stored in an airtight container, they can last for up to a month at room temperature.
→ Can I freeze candied orange peels?
Yes, they can be individually wrapped and frozen. Just make sure to thaw them at room temperature before using.
→ What can I do with leftover syrup?
The syrup can be used as a sweetener for drinks, pancakes, or even poured over desserts to add citrus flavor.
Candied Orange Peel with Brown Sugar
Created by: The Xandersrecipes Team
Recipe Type: Tasty Pastries
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 3 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 3 medium oranges
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
How-To Steps
Wash the oranges thoroughly under cool water. Cut off both ends of each orange, then slice the peel into 1/4-inch wide strips. Remove as much of the white pith as possible, as this can be quite bitter.
Place the peel strips in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then drain and repeat twice to help reduce bitterness. This process should take about 15 minutes.
In the same saucepan, combine the brown sugar and 1 cup of fresh water. Add the boiled orange peels, then simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes, or until the peels become translucent and sticky.
Remove the peels from the syrup and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Once cooled, toss them in granulated sugar until evenly coated.
Store the candied orange peels in an airtight container at room temperature. They make a delightful treat on their own or can be used to garnish cakes and desserts.
Extra Tips
- Experiment by adding cinnamon or vanilla to the boiling syrup for added flavor. You can also dip the cooled peels in dark chocolate for a decadent treat!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 10mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 72g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 64g
- Protein: 1g