Candied Orange Slices with Chocolate Dipping Recipe

Introduction

Candied oranges are a delightful treat that combines the bright, tangy flavor of fresh oranges with a sweet, glossy syrup. Finished with a rich dark chocolate dip and a touch of flaky salt, they make an elegant snack or garnish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 large orange, sliced into ⅛” thick slices
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ cups water
• Dark chocolate, for dipping
• Optional: flaky salt for topping

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Prepare a separate bowl filled with ice water and set it aside.
2. Step 2: Slice the orange into ⅛” thick slices. Using a mandoline can help keep the slices even and uniform.
3. Step 3: Boil the orange slices for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to the ice water to cool. Once cooled, remove from the water and pat dry gently.
4. Step 4: Return the pot to medium heat. Add the sugar and water, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Attach a thermometer and bring the syrup to about 220˚F. Add the orange slices to the pot, stirring gently to submerge them fully in the syrup.
5. Step 5: Continue to heat the syrup, bringing it up to 250˚F while stirring occasionally. This step takes 20-30 minutes. When the temperature reaches 250˚F, remove the pot from the heat and transfer the orange slices to a silicone baking mat or parchment paper. Let them cool completely; for best results, allow them to dry at room temperature overnight or speed up by refrigerating.
6. Step 6: Melt the dark chocolate using a double boiler or microwave. Dip each candied orange slice in the chocolate, then sprinkle with flaky salt if desired. Let the chocolate set before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin orange slices that candy uniformly.
• For a different flavor twist, try using blood oranges or adding a cinnamon stick to the syrup.
• If you don’t have a thermometer, cook the syrup until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
• Flaky salt enhances the chocolate’s richness but can be omitted for a sweeter finish.

Storage

Store candied oranges in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one month. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator or freezer where they can last several months. Allow refrigerated slices to come to room temperature before serving. The chocolate coating will retain its texture best when kept cool and dry.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other citrus fruits for candying?

Yes, lemons, limes, and grapefruits work well using the same process, offering unique flavors and colors.

Why is the syrup cooked to 250˚F?

Cooking the syrup to 250˚F concentrates the sugar to the soft-ball stage, which ensures the orange slices become tender and well-candied without being mushy.

Candied Orange Slices with Chocolate Dipping Recipe

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Candied Oranges are thinly sliced orange rounds cooked in a sugar syrup until translucent and coated with a glossy candy finish. These sweet and tangy treats are enhanced by optional dark chocolate dipping and flaky salt, creating a sophisticated balance of flavors perfect for gifting or snacking.

• Author: Rita
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes prep + 35 minutes cooking + overnight drying (about 12 hours) = approximately 12 hours 50 minutes
• Yield: About 20–24 candied orange slices depending on the size of the orange 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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For Candied Oranges

• 1 large orange, sliced into ⅛” thick slices
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ cups water

For Dipping and Topping

• Dark chocolate, for dipping
• Optional: flaky salt for topping

Instructions

1. Prep the Water Bath: Bring a pot of water to a boil and prepare a separate bowl of ice water. Set aside for blanching the orange slices.
2. Slice the Orange: Slice the orange into thin ⅛ inch slices, using a mandoline for even thickness. This ensures consistent candying and texture.
3. Blanch Orange Slices: Boil the orange slices for 2 minutes to soften and reduce bitterness, then immediately transfer them to the ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, remove and pat dry gently with a towel.
4. Prepare Sugar Syrup: In the same pot, add granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves, then attach a candy thermometer. Raise the temperature to about 220°F to create a simmering syrup base.
5. Candy the Orange Slices: Add the blanched orange slices to the syrup and stir gently to fully submerge them. Increase heat and bring syrup to 250°F, stirring occasionally; this step will take approximately 20-30 minutes and allows the oranges to become translucent and infused with the sweetness.
6. Dry the Candied Oranges: Remove the pot from heat once syrup reaches 250°F. Using a slotted spoon, transfer orange slices onto a silicone baking mat or parchment paper. Let them cool completely; for best texture, allow them to dry at room temperature overnight or place them briefly in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
7. Melt Chocolate and Dip: Melt dark chocolate using a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth. Dip each candied orange slice halfway into the chocolate, then lay them on parchment to set.
8. Add Optional Topping: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle a pinch of flaky salt on each slice to enhance the flavor contrast.
9. Storage: Store candied oranges in an airtight container. They will keep for up to one month at room temperature or several months refrigerated or frozen.

Notes

• Use a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness to ensure even candying.
• Blanching the oranges removes bitterness and softens the peel.
• Monitoring syrup temperature with a candy thermometer is crucial to achieve perfect candy texture.
• Drying the slices overnight yields the best chewiness and prevents stickiness.
• Adding flaky salt with the chocolate dipping adds a delightful salty contrast to the sweetness.
• These candied oranges make excellent edible gifts and can be used as cocktail garnishes or dessert accents.

Keywords: candied oranges, homemade candy, candied citrus, orange slices, chocolate dipped oranges, sweet snacks, holiday treats