Spiced Candied Orange Peel

Name: Spiced Candied Orange Peel
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: Makes about 2 cups
Ingredients: 4 large oranges; 2 cups water; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Treats

I love making Spiced Candied Orange Peel as it transforms ordinary orange peels into a delightful treat. The process brings out a sweet and tangy flavor, enhanced with spices that add warmth and depth. Each bite is a burst of citrusy goodness, perfect for snacking or adding to desserts. This recipe has become a delightful way to reduce waste while enjoying a unique flavor combination. Plus, the vibrant color adds a cheerful touch to any dish, making it a favorite in my kitchen.

Created by

The Chefkennethcooks Team

Last updated on 2026-02-14T15:33:18.356Z

When I first tried making Spiced Candied Orange Peel, I was amazed at how something so simple could become a flavorful treat. What I discovered is that the technique of simmering the peels gently in sugar syrup helps to soften them while infusing them with sweetness. Additionally, incorporating spices like cinnamon and cloves adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.

Over the years, I've adjusted the recipe to include a hint of ginger, which beautifully complements the orange's natural zest. I recommend letting the candied peels rest after coating them in sugar, as this helps form that delightful sugary crust that makes them a standout addition to any dessert table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Sweet and spicy combination that enhances the natural orange flavor
Perfect for gifting or as a unique addition to holiday dishes
Great way to use every part of the fruit and reduce waste

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of Spiced Candied Orange Peel lies in the quality of the oranges. Choose firm, organic oranges if possible, as they provide vibrant peels free of wax or pesticide residues. The zestier the orange, the more flavor your candied peels will possess. The spices in this recipe not only enhance the natural sweetness but also add intriguing depth. Ground cinnamon, cloves, and ginger complement the citrus, creating a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen while they simmer.

Sugar plays a crucial role in this recipe, acting as both a preservative and a sweetener. When creating the syrup, ensure the sugar dissolves fully. If you're looking to substitute, try using coconut sugar for a healthier alternative, although this will slightly alter the taste and color of the final product. Remember that the texture of the finished peels will also depend on how well they are coated in granulated sugar during the drying process.

Perfecting the Candying Process

One key step is simmering the peels in the sugar syrup. Keep a close eye on the heat; too high a temperature can cause the syrup to caramelize, resulting in a burnt flavor. You want a gentle simmer; this allows the orange peels to soften while absorbing the syrup. They'll turn translucent—a perfect indicator of readiness—if you monitor the simmer time closely, about 45 minutes should suffice. If they appear cloudy, give them a bit more time until they're beautifully clear.

The drying phase is equally important. Placing the coated peels on a wire rack ensures they dry evenly. I recommend leaving them uncovered for about 1-2 hours, flipping them halfway through to encourage even drying. If you live in a very humid environment, consider using a low oven (around 150°F or 65°C) to help the drying process without cooking the peels further. Proper drying prevents clumping and extends shelf life significantly.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Spiced Candied Orange Peels are cool and dry, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to two weeks if kept away from heat and moisture. For extended storage, consider freezing them in a single layer, then transferring the peels to a freezer bag. This can maintain their quality for up to six months. Just allow them to thaw at room temperature before using, and you’ll still enjoy that delightful texture and flavor.

These candied peels offer versatility in their use. You can enjoy them as a snack, sprinkle them over desserts like cakes or ice creams, or incorporate them into savory dishes for a surprising twist. They're also delightful when dipped in dark chocolate for a classy treat or blended into a citrus salad for added complexity. The options are numerous, so don’t hesitate to experiment with how you showcase this vibrant ingredient!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Spiced Candied Orange Peel

4 large oranges
2 cups water
2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare the Orange Peels

Begin by washing the oranges thoroughly. Cut the oranges into quarters and remove the fruit, leaving the peel intact. Slice the peels into thin strips.

Simmer the Peels

Place the orange peel strips in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Drain the peels and set them aside.

Make the Sugar Syrup

In the same pot, combine 2 cups of water and 2 cups of granulated sugar. Add the cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.

Candy the Peels

Add the drained orange peels to the sugar syrup. Simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes until the peels become translucent and tender.

Coat and Dry

Remove the peels from the syrup, letting the excess drip off. Coat them in granulated sugar and place them on a wire rack to dry for 1-2 hours.

Store

Once completely dry, store the candied orange peels in an airtight container at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try infusing the sugar syrup with star anise or nutmeg for a different flavor profile.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your orange peels don’t become translucent during candying, it could be due to not simmering long enough or not maintaining the right temperature. Make sure to keep the syrup at a gentle boil. If it starts to look thick too quickly, reduce the heat further. An undercooked batch will have a firmer texture; allow them to simmer until they reach that glossy, see-through quality.

Another common issue is peels clumping together after coating in sugar. This can happen if they weren't thoroughly dried before storage or if they were layered too closely while drying. To mitigate this, ensure you coat them lightly and handle them carefully. Also, ensure they are completely dry before storing.

Creative Variations

For a unique flavor twist, consider adding a splash of citrus juice or zest to the sugar syrup. Blood orange or lemon juice can provide a tart contrast to the sweetness, enriching the overall taste profile. Experimenting with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom can also yield delicious results, allowing you to tailor the peels to your taste preferences.

You can try different fruits if you want to diversify beyond oranges. Grapefruit or lemon peels can yield similarly delightful candy, though you may need to adjust the sugar and spicing based on the fruit's natural bitterness or tartness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use lemon or lime peels instead of orange?

Yes, you can use lemon or lime peels, but adjust the sugar if the fruit is more sour.

→ How long do the candied peels last?

Candied orange peels can last up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container.

→ What are some ways to use candied orange peels?

They can be used in desserts, as toppings for cakes, or even added to chocolate for a delightful treat.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly, as it contains only plant-based ingredients.