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Bowl of homemade candied orange peel coated in sugar with fresh oranges in the background
Jana Rae

Homemade Candied Orange Peel

Make homemade candied orange peel with just oranges, sugar, and water. A chewy, sweet treat that’s perfect for snacking, dipping in chocolate, or using in baking. Simple, thrifty, and delicious!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
drying time 6 hours
Total Time 7 hours
Servings: 24 pieces
Course: candy, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: European
Calories: 70
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large navel oranges organic if possible
  • 2 cups granulated sugar plus more for coating
  • 1 cup water
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon vanilla extract or 1 cinnamon stick for flavor infusion

Method
 

  1. Prepare the peel – Wash oranges thoroughly. Cut off the ends and score the peel into quarters. Remove the peel and cut into thin strips.
  2. Boil to remove bitterness – Place strips in a saucepan, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Drain. Repeat this step 2 more times.
  3. Make sugar syrup – In the same saucepan, combine 2 cups sugar and 1 cup water. Bring to a simmer, stirring until sugar dissolves.
  4. Cook the peel – Add orange strips and simmer over low heat for 45–60 minutes until the peels are translucent and syrupy.
  5. Dry – Remove peels with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack set over parchment. Let dry 6–12 hours.
  6. Coat in sugar – Toss dried peels in granulated sugar until fully coated. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Storage: Keeps well in an airtight jar at room temperature for up to 3 weeks.
  • Chocolate-dipped option: Dip half the peel in melted dark chocolate for a classic treat.
  • Other citrus: Try lemons, limes, or grapefruit for variation.
  • Gift idea: Package in small jars or cellophane bags tied with ribbon for holiday gifts.