Honey Candied Orange Peel

Name: Honey Candied Orange Peel
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 cup
Ingredients: 4 large oranges; 1 cup honey; 1 cup water; 1 cup granulated sugar

Highlighted under: World Kitchen Recipes

I love making Honey Candied Orange Peel because it’s a delightful treat that captures the essence of citrus while balancing sweetness and a hint of bitterness. The process is surprisingly straightforward, allowing me to transform what would otherwise be discarded into a vibrant snack. I often enjoy it as a topping for desserts or even just on its own as a treat with tea. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift or a seasonal indulgence, this recipe is a must-try!

Created by

The Chefgeorgefoods Team

Last updated on 2026-02-14T16:50:20.748Z

When I first experimented with making candied orange peel, I had no idea how incredible the final product would be. The kitchen filled with the sweet, citrusy aroma as I simmered the orange peels in honey and water, and I couldn't wait to taste the results. The key is to use fresh, organic oranges, as the zestiness truly enhances the flavor.

Though the process takes some time, the reward is a lush, chewy confection that can elevate any dessert or stand alone as a sweet snack. I’ve found that allowing the peels to dry overnight really intensifies the flavor and texture, so patience is key!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Lush, sweet flavor enhanced with a touch of bitterness from the orange peel
Simple ingredients turn a waste product into a gourmet treat
Perfect for garnishing desserts or enjoying as a snack

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Honey Candied Orange Peel recipe is, of course, the orange peel itself. Using large, fresh oranges not only provides ample peel but also enhances the flavor of the final treat. The natural oils in the peel contribute to the bright, citrusy flavor, while the white pith lends a subtle bitterness that complements the sweetness of the honey and sugar. If you can't find large oranges, experimenting with smaller varieties like tangerines can yield delightful results, adjusting cooking times slightly due to their tender peels.

Honey plays a crucial role, acting not just as a sweetener but also adding depth to the flavor profile of the candied peels. Opt for a floral variety, like clover or orange blossom honey, to enhance the citrus notes. In case you're seeking a vegan alternative, you can easily substitute the honey with agave syrup; just keep in mind that the flavor will shift, resulting in a different yet still delicious outcome.

Tips for Perfect Candied Peels

After blanching the peels, the key to achieving perfect candied texture lies in the simmering process. Keep the heat low to avoid boiling, which could toughen the peels. Simmer them until they turn translucent, about 45-50 minutes. This transformation is not just visual; it means that the peels will absorb the honey syrup, resulting in a luscious, chewy texture that's ideal for snacking or garnishing desserts. If your peels are not translucent after 50 minutes, they may need additional simmer time, but check every 5 minutes to prevent overcooking.

Coating the peels in sugar not only sweetens them further but also creates a nice crunchy exterior. To achieve an even coating, ensure you let the excess honey syrup drip off first. If you find the sugar isn't sticking well, a light re-dip in the honey mixture may help adhere more sugar. Letting the peels dry completely on a wire rack is essential; skipping this step could lead to a sticky result that doesn’t store well. Aim for a minimum of four hours; however, overnight drying is best for a perfect finish.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting the process to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Ingredients

4 large oranges
1 cup honey
1 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar

Once you have all your ingredients prepared, you’re ready to start the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to ensure your orange peels come out perfectly candied.

Prepare the Oranges

Wash the oranges thoroughly. Cut off the ends and slice them into quarters. Remove the inner fruit, leaving just the peel.

Blanch the Peels

Place the orange peels in a pot of boiling water. Boil for 10 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water.

Simmer in Honey Solution

In a saucepan, combine honey and water. Add the blanched peels and simmer on low heat for about 45-50 minutes until they are translucent.

Coat and Dry

Remove the peels from the honey mixture, letting the excess syrup drip off. Roll each piece in granulated sugar and place them on a wire rack to dry for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Once your orange peels are dry, they are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, you can simmer the peels with spices like cinnamon or star anise during the honey cooking process.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Honey Candied Orange Peels are ready, the possibilities for serving them are endless. They can be enjoyed as a standalone snack with a cup of tea, where the sweet and slightly bitter notes complement the beverage beautifully. If you're looking to impress, consider using the peels as a garnish for cakes, cheesecakes, or ice creams. Simply chop them into smaller pieces or leave them whole for a striking presentation atop your dessert.

These candied peels can also be chopped and added to trail mixes for a zesty twist or incorporated into baked goods like muffins and cakes for an unexpected flavor burst. I particularly enjoy mixing them into chocolate bark; the citrus punch pairs wonderfully with rich dark chocolate, creating a decadent treat that makes great gifts when packaged beautifully.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage is vital for maintaining the quality of your candied peels. Once fully dried, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they should last for about two weeks. If you want to prolong their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, which can extend the freshness up to a month. Remember to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

For longer storage, you can freeze the candied peels. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, where they can last up to six months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature; they will maintain their texture and flavor beautifully if stored properly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of orange?

Yes, but organic oranges are recommended as they have no wax coatings.

→ How long do the candied peels last?

When stored in an airtight container, they can last for up to 2 weeks.

→ Can I use the honey syrup for anything?

Absolutely! The leftover honey syrup makes a delicious addition to teas or can be drizzled over desserts.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe without sugar?

You could try using alternatives like stevia or coconut sugar, but the texture and flavor might vary.