Elegant Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices: The Ultimate Festive Treat & Gift

Transform fresh oranges into a gourmet delight with these easy-to-make Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices. Perfectly sweet, beautifully translucent, and finished with a hint of flaky sea salt, they are ideal for gifting this holiday season, decorating your favorite baked goods, or simply savoring as a luxurious treat. We recommend exploring different orange varieties, from classic Navel to vibrant Blood Oranges, to create a truly stunning assortment.

About These Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices

There’s an undeniable magic to candied orange slices, especially around the holidays. They instantly evoke feelings of festive warmth and homemade goodness. For me, these delightful treats have a special place, reminding me of the simple pleasures and cherished memories of childhood. While I once confused them with the gummy orange candies my grandmother adored, I quickly learned the exquisite difference of truly candied citrus – and once you try these, you’ll understand why they’re so captivating.

This recipe takes the traditional candied orange slice to an elevated level by pairing it with rich, decadent chocolate and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. It’s that beloved chocolate-orange combination many of us fondly remember from holiday stockings, but with an artisanal touch. The flaky salt isn’t just for decoration; it provides a crucial contrast, cutting through the sweetness and enhancing the citrus and chocolate flavors, making each bite an elegant experience without any extra effort on your part.

Making candied orange slices might sound intricate, but it’s surprisingly simple. This is truly a “low effort, high reward” recipe. The process mainly involves a gentle simmer on the stove, allowing you to multitask while the oranges slowly transform into translucent, sweet perfection. Imagine the aroma filling your home as you wrap gifts, enjoy a holiday movie, or simply relax with a good book – the oranges are doing all the hard work for you!

These easy chocolate dipped candied orange slices are incredibly versatile. They make for stunning, thoughtful edible gifts that truly impress. Beyond gifting, they are fantastic for adding a gourmet touch to your holiday spread. Use them as a vibrant garnish for festive cocktails, arrange them on a luxurious cookie tray for variety, or add them as a sophisticated topping for Christmas cakes, cupcakes, and other seasonal desserts. Their vibrant color and exquisite taste will make any dish shine.

Ingredients for Candied Orange Slices

Crafting these delectable candied orange slices requires just a few simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and rich.

• Oranges: The star of our show! I absolutely love using a medley of different orange varieties for a beautiful visual appeal and a nuanced flavor profile. My go-to choices include the classic Navel for its balanced sweetness, the vibrant Cara Cara with its subtle pink hue and berry-like notes, and the dramatic Blood Orange, which adds a stunning ruby color and a unique, slightly tart flavor. Feel free to use your favorite type of orange, or experiment with a mix to discover your preferred combination. Look for firm, bright oranges with smooth skin for the best results.
• Granulated Sugar: This is the backbone of our candying process. Granulated sugar not only sweetens the oranges but also acts as a preserving agent, transforming the bitter pith and tenderizing the pulp. It forms the essential syrup that infuses the orange slices with sweetness and gives them their characteristic translucent, chewy texture.
• Water: Simple tap water or filtered water works perfectly fine. Its role is to create the sugar syrup, dissolving the sugar and allowing the oranges to simmer gently, absorbing the sweet liquid as they cook.
• Chocolate: The choice of chocolate can significantly impact the final taste. I typically reach for high-quality dark chocolate melting wafers because I adore the intense, slightly bitter contrast it provides against the sweet orange. However, feel free to use milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier profile, or white chocolate for a delicate, vanilla-infused touch. Ensure you use melting wafers or good quality chocolate bars that melt smoothly for a flawless, glossy coating.
• Flaky Sea Salt: This is an optional, but highly recommended, finishing touch that truly elevates these candied treats. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt, such as Fleur de Sel, provides a delightful crunch and a subtle salty burst that beautifully enhances both the citrus and chocolate flavors. If you don’t have flaky sea salt, a coarse sea salt can also be used.

Essential Tools for This Recipe

Having the right tools at hand makes the process of creating these elegant candied orange slices a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure success:

• Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board are crucial for slicing the oranges. Evenly sliced oranges ensure they cook uniformly and achieve that beautiful translucent appearance. Precision is key here!
• Mandoline Slicer (Optional, but Recommended): For truly perfect and consistently thin slices (around 1/4-inch), a mandoline slicer is an invaluable tool. It makes the task much quicker and guarantees uniformity, which is vital for even cooking and a professional finish.
• Wide, Large Skillet: An ideal skillet for this recipe should be at least 12 inches in diameter, but bigger is definitely better. A wide surface area allows you to arrange the orange slices in a single layer, ensuring they all simmer evenly in the sugar syrup. This prevents overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.
• Half Sheet Baking Sheets: You’ll need one or two half sheet baking sheets. These are essential for allowing your candied orange slices to dry properly after simmering and for letting the chocolate set after dipping. Lining them with parchment paper will prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.

Here’s How to Make Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices

Creating these gourmet treats is a delightful process that unfolds in a few simple stages. Patience is key, especially during the drying phase, but the hands-on work is minimal and incredibly rewarding.

Perfectly Slice Your Oranges

Begin by carefully slicing your oranges into 1/4-inch thick rounds. This consistent thickness is crucial for even cooking and achieving that desirable translucent quality. If your slices are too thin, they might fall apart; too thick, and they’ll take longer to candy and might remain tough. After slicing, meticulously check each piece and remove any seed fragments. Biting into a seed is certainly not a pleasant experience, and taking a moment to remove them now will ensure a smooth, enjoyable treat later.

Prepare the Sugar Syrup

In a wide, large skillet, combine your water and granulated sugar. Turn the heat to medium-high and whisk constantly until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture comes to a rolling boil. It’s important for the sugar to be fully dissolved to prevent crystallization and ensure a smooth syrup. Once the syrup is ready, gently arrange your orange slices in a single layer within the pan. A wide skillet is essential here to avoid overcrowding. If your pan isn’t large enough to accommodate all slices in one layer, work in batches to ensure each slice is properly submerged and cooks evenly.

Simmer and Dry the Orange Slices

Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let the orange slices cook, uncovered, for about 1 hour. During this time, the oranges will absorb the sugar syrup, and their rinds will soften and become beautifully translucent. You’ll notice the pith (the white part of the peel) becoming almost clear. Once they’ve reached this stage, carefully remove the slices from the syrup and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, or preferably on a cooling rack placed over a baking sheet. This allows for better air circulation. Let them dry out at room temperature for at least 24 hours, uncovered. This extended drying time is vital for them to firm up and achieve their classic candied texture; they will still be slightly sticky, which is perfectly normal and desired.

Dip in Chocolate and Finish

Once your candied orange slices are adequately dried, it’s time for the chocolate magic! Melt your chosen chocolate melting wafers according to package directions. You can use a microwave, heating in 10-15 second bursts and stirring well between each, or a double boiler for a gentler melt. Ensure the chocolate is smooth and lump-free. Dip each candied orange slice halfway into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off briefly. Immediately after dipping, if using, sprinkle the chocolate-coated portion with flaky sea salt. This should be done quickly before the chocolate sets. Return the dipped slices to your parchment-lined baking sheet to harden. Allow them to set for at least 15 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm to the touch, before serving or storing. (Detailed storing instructions can be found later in this post and in the recipe card.)

Expert Tips for Perfect Candied Orange Slices

While this recipe is straightforward, a few key tips can elevate your chocolate-dipped candied orange slices from good to absolutely outstanding:

• Slice Them Evenly: Consistency in slicing is perhaps the most important factor. If your slices vary in thickness, they will cook at different rates, leading to some being perfectly translucent and tender while others are still tough or overcooked. Aim for a uniform 1/4-inch thickness. For ultimate precision and ease, a mandoline slicer is your best friend here. It ensures every slice is identical, leading to beautifully even results. If you prefer a slightly quicker cooking time, you can go for an 1/8-inch thickness, but be aware they will be more delicate.
• Remove the Seeds: This step might seem minor, but it makes a huge difference in the eating experience. After slicing, take a moment to meticulously remove any seeds or seed fragments. A small spoon or the tip of your knife works well. No one wants to bite into a hard, bitter seed when enjoying a sweet treat!
• Explore Different Citrus: Don’t limit yourself to just oranges! This candying method works wonderfully with other citrus fruits, allowing for a delightful array of flavors and colors. Try making candied lemon slices for a zesty, tart kick, or candied lime slices for a bright, aromatic twist. Grapefruit slices also make a bold statement, offering a pleasant bitterness. Adjust your expectations slightly for cooking times, as thinner-skinned fruits might cook faster. This is a fantastic way to experiment and personalize your sweet selection.
• Save the Syrup: This is a secret weapon! After simmering the oranges, you’ll be left with a concentrated, flavorful citrus syrup. Do not discard it! This golden liquid is a gourmet addition to countless recipes. Use it as a simple syrup in seasonal cocktails (like an Old Fashioned or Gin & Tonic), drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, or ice cream, or use it to glaze cakes and pastries. It perfectly captures the essence of the citrus and adds a lovely depth of flavor to anything it touches. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
• Patience with Drying: The drying step can feel long, but it’s crucial for achieving the proper candied texture. Resist the urge to rush it. A full 24 hours (or even slightly longer, depending on your humidity) allows the slices to firm up, making them less sticky and perfect for dipping. Good air circulation is key, so if possible, place your cooling rack in a cool, dry spot.
• Quality Chocolate Matters: Since chocolate is a prominent component, choose a good quality melting chocolate or tempering chocolate. High-quality chocolate will melt smoothly, coat beautifully, and set with a nice shine and snap. Compound chocolates (often labeled as “candiquik” or “melting wafers” that don’t require tempering) are also a great option for ease of use.

More festive treats to whip up this season: Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds | Gingerbread Christmas Crack Candy | Chocolate Covered Oreos | Crispy Bourbon Buckeyes

What Exactly Are Candied Orange Slices?

Candied orange slices are a delightful confectionery item where fresh orange slices (including the peel) are slowly simmered in a sugar syrup until they become translucent, tender, and infused with sweetness. The process transforms the typically bitter white pith of the orange into a chewy, flavorful layer, while the pulp becomes soft and juicy, retaining a concentrated orange essence. The rind becomes pliable and slightly firm, creating a wonderful textural contrast. With the addition of chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt, these treats reach a new level of sophistication and deliciousness – offering a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and subtly salty flavors, along with a satisfying chewiness akin to a gourmet gummy candy.

Can I Use Other Citrus Fruits?

Absolutely, yes! This candying method is incredibly versatile and works beautifully with a variety of other citrus fruits. You can easily adapt this recipe to create your own candied lemon slices, candied lime slices, or even candied grapefruit slices. Each fruit will lend its unique flavor profile – lemons and limes offer a brighter, more tart kick, while grapefruit provides a pleasant bitterness that pairs wonderfully with sweet chocolate. The process remains largely the same, though you might find slight variations in simmering and drying times depending on the thickness of the rind and the moisture content of the fruit. Experiment with different citrus for a vibrant and diverse array of homemade candied treats!

Do Candied Orange Slices Require Refrigeration?

Yes, it is highly recommended to store these chocolate dipped candied orange slices in the refrigerator. While plain candied orange slices can sometimes be stored at room temperature for a short period, the chocolate coating makes refrigeration essential. The chocolate can melt or become soft at warmer temperatures, making the slices messy and unappetizing to handle and eat. Storing them in the fridge ensures the chocolate remains firm, maintains its glossy appearance, and keeps the overall treat fresh and pleasant to enjoy.

Can You Freeze Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices?

Yes, these chocolate dipped candied orange slices are excellent for freezing! Freezing is a fantastic way to extend their shelf life and prepare them in advance for future events or gifting. To freeze them properly, ensure the chocolate is completely set and firm. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe container. If you need to stack them, place layers of parchment paper or wax paper between the slices to prevent them from sticking together. They will maintain their quality for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.

Need some more inspiration for sweet treats? Check out my desserts recipe page!

Creative Ways to Serve Candied Orange Slices

These chocolate-dipped candied orange slices are incredibly versatile, offering both a standalone indulgence and a sophisticated embellishment for various dishes. Their vibrant color, delightful texture, and exquisite flavor make them perfect for numerous occasions.

As a Standalone Treat or Gift: My absolute favorite way to enjoy these is simply as they are! Their balanced sweetness and subtle bitterness, combined with the rich chocolate and hint of salt, make them a complete sensory experience. They are absolutely fantastic for:

• Holiday Cookie Trays & Boxes: Add a touch of elegance and a burst of color to your holiday dessert assortments. Pair them with:
  • Chai Snickerdoodle Cookies: The warm spices of chai would beautifully complement the orange and chocolate.
  • Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies: The refreshing mint and rich chocolate create a festive contrast.
  • Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars with eggnog buttercream frosting: The creamy frosting and spiced cookie would be a comforting pairing.
  • Christmas Shortbread Cookies: A classic buttery shortbread offers a simple, delightful base.
• Edible Gifts: Neatly packaged in a decorative box or clear cellophane bags, these make truly impressive and thoughtful homemade gifts for friends, family, or hosts during the festive season.

Elegant Dessert Garnish: Beyond being a treat themselves, these candied orange slices are exceptional as a garnish, elevating any dessert to a gourmet level. Their vibrant color and unique texture add visual appeal and a burst of flavor. Consider them for:

• Ginger Cranberry Orange Loaf Cake: A perfect match, enhancing the existing orange and spice notes.
• Chocolate Tart with Hazelnut Crust: The bitterness of the dark chocolate in the tart would be beautifully balanced by the candied orange.
• Orange Pound Cake: An obvious yet perfect pairing, adding a candied crunch and intensified orange flavor.
• Orange Cupcakes: A single candied slice atop an orange-flavored cupcake makes for an incredibly elegant and professional-looking dessert.
• Cheesecakes, Tarts, and Other Cakes: They add a sophisticated touch to almost any baked good. Imagine them fanned out on a rich chocolate cheesecake or perched delicately on a lemon tart!

Cocktail Garnish: Don’t overlook their potential in beverages! If you happen to have a few slices leftover, or even purposefully make a batch for this, they make a stunning and delicious cocktail garnish. They’ll infuse your drink with a subtle citrus sweetness as you sip. Try them with:

• My Smoked Orange Old Fashioned: The smoky notes would beautifully complement the candied orange.
• My friend Susannah’s Mandarin Orange Gin and Tonic: A refreshing and aromatic addition to a classic G&T.

The possibilities are truly endless for these gorgeous and delicious candied orange slices!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness, texture, and visual appeal of your chocolate-dipped candied orange slices. Since they contain chocolate, they require a bit more attention than plain candied fruit.

• Storing in the Refrigerator: Once the chocolate coating on your candied orange slices is completely firm and set, carefully transfer them to an airtight container. To prevent them from sticking together or the chocolate from smudging, place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer of slices if you’re stacking them. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures the chocolate remains crisp and firm, and the orange slices retain their fresh taste and chewy texture.
• Freezing for Longer Storage: These candied orange slices are fantastic for longer-term storage in the freezer, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time. After the chocolate has fully set, arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid (this flash-freezing prevents them from clumping together). Once solid, transfer the frozen slices to a freezer-safe, airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Again, if stacking, use parchment or wax paper between layers. They will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months.
• Thawing from Frozen: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen candied orange slices, simply remove them from the freezer and place them in the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Avoid thawing them at room temperature, as this can cause condensation to form on the chocolate, leading to a dull or sticky finish. Once thawed, they are ready to be served and enjoyed!

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy these delightful treats for an extended period, making them an ideal make-ahead option for holiday entertaining or thoughtful edible gifts.

Finally, if you make these chocolate dipped candied orange slices, please be sure to give this recipe a rating or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment. Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!

Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram if you make the recipe! I love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!

Recipe Card: Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices

Tangy and sweet, these are a fantastic holiday treat!

Prep Time:
10 minutes mins

Cook Time:
1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Additional Time:
1 day d 15 minutes mins

Total Time:
1 day d 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Servings:
16 slices

5 from 89 votes

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Equipment for This Recipe

• Nonstick 12-Inch Skillet
• Shun Chef’s Knife
• Utility Cutting Board
• Half Sheet Pan

Ingredients

• 2 to 3 oranges any kind, I like a combination of navel, cara cara, and blood oranges
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup dark chocolate melting wafers you can also use milk chocolate or white chocolate!
• Flaky sea salt optional

Instructions

• Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
• Slice oranges into 1/4-inch slices. Be sure to remove any seeds.
• Combine sugar and water in a wide, large skillet. Over medium-high heat, bring the mixture to a boil, whisking until the sugar has dissolved.
• Add orange slices in an even layer (you may need to cook the slices in batches depending on how big your skillet is). Bring the liquid to a simmer. Simmer for approximately 1 hour, uncovered. The orange slices should look transparent when they are done.
• Remove orange slices to the prepared baking sheet. Let slices dry for at least 24 hours, uncovered. They will still be a little sticky at this point, and that’s ok.
• Place chocolate melting wafers in a bowl and melt in 10-15 second increments, stirring between each, until melted. You can also melt the chocolate in a double-boiler over medium-low heat if you prefer.
• Once melted, dip each slice halfway into the chocolate and return to the parchment-lined baking sheet to set. Sprinkle with flaky salt right after dipping, if you are using it.
• Repeat this dipping process until all slices have been dipped. Let set for at least 15 minutes, until the chocolate hardens, before serving or storing.

Notes on Storage and Variations

Store in an airtight container up to 5 days in the fridge. They can also be stored in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months. See notes in post for how to store.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 121kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.003g | Cholesterol: 0.3mg | Sodium: 4mg | Potassium: 108mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 41IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 1mg

Calories:
121kcal

Cuisine:
Holiday

Category:
Dessert