If you are looking for a beautiful way to preserve fresh oranges, this Candied Oranges and Orange Simple Syrup Recipe is the perfect solution. Thin orange slices are gently simmered in a sweet citrus syrup until they become glossy, tender, and lightly translucent. The result is a stunning homemade treat that can be used to decorate cakes, cupcakes, cheesecakes, cookies, cocktails, and holiday desserts.
Not only do you get delicious candied orange slices, but you also end up with a flavorful orange simple syrup that can be used in countless ways. The syrup captures the bright essence of fresh oranges and makes an excellent addition to iced tea, lemonade, sparkling water, cocktails, pancakes, waffles, yogurt, and ice cream.
This easy candied orange recipe requires only a handful of ingredients and creates a versatile citrus garnish that looks impressive while adding sweet, tangy flavor to your favorite treats.
Preparation
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
16 minutes
Cooling Time
3 hours
Total Time
3 hours 26 minutes
Yield
12 to 16 candied orange slices and about 1 cup orange simple syrup
2 medium oranges
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
¾ cup water
Prepare the Oranges
Wash the oranges thoroughly under cool running water and pat them dry. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, carefully slice the oranges into ⅛-inch-thick rounds. Remove and discard any seeds.
Keeping the slices thin helps them become tender and translucent during cooking while maintaining their beautiful circular shape.
Make the Orange Syrup
In a large skillet, combine the granulated sugar, fresh orange juice, and water.
Place the skillet over medium heat and stir until the sugar has completely dissolved. Continue heating until the mixture begins to gently simmer.
The syrup will become clear and slightly thickened as the sugar dissolves.
Candy the Orange Slices
Carefully arrange the orange slices in a single layer in the simmering syrup.
Allow the slices to cook gently for 14 to 16 minutes, turning them occasionally with tongs to ensure even cooking. Avoid boiling the syrup too vigorously, as this may cause the slices to break apart.
As the oranges cook, they will gradually become glossy and slightly translucent. The rinds should be tender but still hold their shape.
Cool the Candied Oranges
Remove the skillet from the heat.
Using tongs, carefully transfer each orange slice to a wax paper-lined baking sheet or jelly roll pan. Arrange the slices in a single layer so they can cool evenly.
Allow the slices to cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour.
Chill and Set
Once cooled, cover the baking sheet loosely and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
This resting period helps the candied oranges develop their signature chewy texture while allowing excess syrup to set on the surface.
Store the Orange Simple Syrup
Do not discard the remaining syrup.
Allow the syrup to cool completely before pouring it into a clean glass jar or airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
The syrup will continue to develop flavor as it sits, making it an excellent addition to beverages and desserts.
Ways to Use Candied Oranges
Candied orange slices are incredibly versatile and can elevate the appearance and flavor of many dishes.
Use them to decorate layer cakes, cheesecakes, cupcakes, tarts, and cookies. Add them to charcuterie boards for a pop of color and citrus flavor. They also make an elegant garnish for cocktails, mocktails, hot toddies, and sparkling beverages.
For a special treat, dip half of each candied orange slice in melted dark chocolate and allow the chocolate to set before serving.
Ways to Use Orange Simple Syrup
The homemade orange simple syrup is just as valuable as the candied oranges themselves.
Stir it into iced tea, hot tea, lemonade, cocktails, mocktails, coffee, or sparkling water. Drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, French toast, yogurt, fresh berries, pound cake, or vanilla ice cream.
You can even use the syrup to sweeten homemade salad dressings or brush it over cakes to add moisture and citrus flavor.
Storage
Store candied oranges in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
For longer storage, freeze the slices in a freezer-safe container for up to 6 months.
Orange simple syrup can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 1 month.
Proper storage helps preserve the texture, flavor, and appearance of both the candied oranges and the syrup.
Navel oranges, Cara Cara oranges, blood oranges, and Valencia oranges all work beautifully in this recipe.
For extra flavor, add a cinnamon stick, vanilla bean, star anise, or a few whole cloves to the syrup while the oranges simmer.
If you prefer a less chewy texture, allow the slices to dry on a cooling rack for several hours before storing.
The leftover syrup becomes even more flavorful after a day or two in the refrigerator.
These candied oranges make wonderful edible gifts when packaged in decorative jars or gift boxes.
