Candied Orange Peel with Warm Spices

Name: Candied Orange Peel with Warm Spices
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large oranges; 2 cups sugar; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 4 whole cloves; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Snacks & Small Bites

I love making Candied Orange Peel with Warm Spices during the colder months. The aroma that fills my kitchen is simply irresistible, and the vibrant zest of oranges combined with the warmth of spices creates an enchanting experience. This treat not only adds a delightful sweetness to desserts and teas but also serves as a flavorful snack on its own. With a bit of patience, you're rewarded with a chewy, sweet delight that encapsulates the essence of winter in every bite.

Created by

The Hazelsrecipes Team

Last updated on 2026-03-11T19:48:07.671Z

When I first attempted to make Candied Orange Peel, I was amazed at how such a simple process could yield such impressive results. The key is to ensure you thoroughly wash the oranges, as you want to avoid any bitter flavors from the peel. I found that simmering the peels in a gentle syrup allows them to absorb sweetness while becoming tender and flavorful.

I also experimented with different spices, and adding a pinch of cinnamon and a few cloves brought an inviting warmth that perfectly complements the citrus. They turned out to be a wonderful addition to my winter baking, and I can’t wait to share them with friends.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The perfect balance of zesty sweetness and warm spice
Versatile treat for snacking, baking, or gifting
A delightful way to reduce kitchen waste by using citrus peels

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients for Candied Orange Peel

4 large oranges
2 cups sugar
1 cup water
1 teaspoon cinnamon
4 whole cloves
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready before beginning the preparation.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious Candied Orange Peel:

Wash the oranges thoroughly under running water. Using a sharp knife, carefully remove the peel in strips, ensuring that some of the white pith remains attached, as it will help with sweetness.

Place the orange peels in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes. Drain and repeat this step twice more to remove bitterness.

In a clean saucepan, combine sugar, 1 cup of water, cinnamon, and cloves. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves. Once boiling, reduce the heat and add the blanched peels.

Simmer the peels in the syrup for about 45-60 minutes or until they become translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Using a fork, transfer the peels to a cooling rack and let them dry for several hours or until tacky.

Once dry, coat the peels in granulated sugar to enhance sweetness. Store in an airtight container.

Enjoy your homemade Candied Orange Peel as a treat on its own or as an addition to your favorite recipes!

Storage and Shelf Life

Once your candied orange peels have been sugar-coated and fully dried, store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can last for several weeks at room temperature but can also be refrigerated to extend their shelf life beyond a month. If you're looking to preserve the peels longer, consider freezing them in a single layer and then transferring them to an airtight freezer bag; they should retain their quality for up to six months.

Avoid storing candied peels in direct sunlight or in a humid environment, as moisture can lead to a sticky texture and spoil the candied coating. If you ever find they have become too sticky after storage, a light re-coating in granulated sugar can restore their texture and make them pleasant once again.

Serving Suggestions

Candied orange peels can elevate numerous dishes, from adding a gourmet touch to your baked goods like cookies or cakes to simply serving as a flavorful garnish for cocktails and chocolates. I often add them to my holiday gift baskets along with homemade chocolates or spiced nuts, making for a delightful treat that's visually appealing and delicious.

For a simple serving idea, try pairing candied orange peel with dark chocolate. Dip the peels in melted chocolate and allow them to set on parchment paper for an elegant treat. Additionally, incorporating them into teas or infusions can brighten your beverage with a hint of sweetness and warmth—a perfect blend during chilly evenings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other citrus fruits for this recipe?

Absolutely! Lemon, lime, or grapefruits can also be candied in a similar manner.

→ How long can the candied orange peels be stored?

They can be kept in an airtight container for up to one month if stored in a cool, dry place.

→ What can I do with leftover syrup?

The syrup can be used to sweeten tea or cocktails and can also be drizzled over desserts.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

You could reduce the amount of sugar used, but it may affect the texture and sweetness of the final product.