Did you know that citrus fruit peels are edible and highly nutritious? These Candied Orange Peels taste bitter on their own but once candied are literally like gummy worms.

These candied orange peels are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while practising sustainability. They are super easy to make and I love having them on hand for when I’m craving some candy. 

These candied oranges can be kept on your counter for about a month or they can be frozen for even longer storage. 

You can enjoy these candied orange peels on just about anything – dipped in chocolate, in a salad, or even mixed into muffins and cookies. They add a perfect bitter-citrus taste, which pairs nicely with savory meals. 

I love finding little hacks on how to reduce my food waste, and I have a ton more tips and tricks in the article How to Reduce Food Waste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • It’s sustainable: Every step we can take to reduce our waste contribution matters. This recipe is the perfect way to reuse your orange peels. 
  • Very delicious: These candied oranges remind me of gummy worms. They are chewy, sweet, and sour all in one. 
  • Kid-friendly: Grab the kiddos and get them into the kitchen. They’ll love making their own ‘candy’. 

How To Make Candied Orange Peels

Peel the oranges and freeze or set them aside for another recipe. Alternatively use orange peels you have saved previously.

Slice the orange peels into thin strips and then, set them aside.

Bring a pot of water to a boil, and allow the orange peels to simmer for approximately 15 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.

Now in the same pot, bring equal parts water and sugar to a boil to make a simple syrup. Whisk until combined. 

Add the orange peels back in, and set to lower. Simmer on low for approximately 30 minutes, until the orange peels have candied.

Transfer the peels to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, and allow to cool for 4 hours. You can store the candied citrus peel for up to a month in a cool, dry place on your countertop.

Hack It 

How to Wash The Peels

To remove any pesticides and other harmful chemicals that might be present on your orange peels, rinse them under warm water scrubbing vigorously with your hands. You can use a dry cloth to press dry to further reduce bacteria. 

How to Store This Recipe

Once the peels are cooled and candied, you can store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to a month. 

You can also refrigerate or freeze them for even longer storage.

Ways To Enjoy These Candied Oranges

  • Dipped in dark chocolate 
  • Add into muffins 
  • Use as a sweet salad topping 
  • Mix into desserts like cake, cookies, and brownies
  • Chopped and added into savory meals like curries

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The Recipe: Candied Orange Peels

This is an easy snack or dessert recipe that is gluten-free and vegan!
5 from 4 ratings
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Servings: 4
Cook Time: 45 minutes
4 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 Orange peels
  • 2 cups Sugar

Instructions 

  • Peel the oranges and freeze or set aside for another recipe. Alternatively use orange peels you have saved previously.
  • Slice the orange peels into thin strips, and then set aside.
  • Bring a pot of water to a boil, and allow the orange peels to simmer for approximately 15 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  • Now in the same pot, bring equal parts water and sugar to a boil to make a simple syrup. Whisk until combine. Add the orange peels back in, and set to lower. Simmer on low for approximately 30 minutes, until the orange peels have candied.
  • Transfer to a parchment paper lined baking sheet, and allow to cool for 4 hours. You can store the candied citrus peel for up to a month in a cool, dry place on your countertop.
Cuisine: American
Course: Dessert
Author: carleigh