Delicious Homemade Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices: The Perfect Holiday Treat & Gift
Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and rich flavors with these homemade **Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices**. They are not only incredibly easy to make but also make a stunning gift for the holiday season or an elegant decoration for your favorite baked goods. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt elevates them to gourmet status, creating a truly irresistible treat. While navel oranges are a classic choice, don’t hesitate to experiment with the vibrant hues and nuanced flavors of blood oranges or cara cara oranges for an even more visually appealing and delicious result.
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About These Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices
For me, homemade candied orange slices truly embody the spirit of the holidays. They bring back a flood of childhood memories, albeit with a slight twist! I used to confuse these elegant treats with the chewy, gummy orange slices my grandmother adored. It wasn’t until I started baking that I realized the delightful difference – a truly candied orange slice offers a soft, tender pulp encased in a delightfully chewy, sweet rind.
I find immense joy in crafting special treats for the holiday season, and these **chocolate dipped candied orange slices** take that joy to an entirely new level. The combination of rich chocolate and tangy orange is a match made in heaven, reminiscent of those classic chocolate oranges that often find their way into Christmas stockings. What truly sets these apart is a delicate sprinkle of flaky sea salt. It’s a simple addition that provides a sophisticated contrast, elevating the flavors and adding an unexpected, elegant touch without any extra effort on your part.
Don’t be intimidated by the idea of candying fruit; making these beautiful orange slices is surprisingly straightforward! This is one of those fantastic recipes that requires minimal active involvement, allowing you to multitask during the festive rush. While the orange slices slowly simmer on the stove, transforming into translucent, sweet gems, you can comfortably attend to other holiday preparations. Imagine wrapping gifts, enjoying a festive movie, or simply relaxing with a good book while your kitchen fills with the sweet aroma of oranges and sugar. It’s a low-effort process with a high-reward outcome – perfect for busy holiday hosts!
These easy-to-make candied orange slices are incredibly versatile. They are absolutely ideal for thoughtful **gifting**, beautifully packaged in a small box or bag. Beyond gifting, they serve as an exquisite garnish, adding a touch of vibrant color and sophisticated flavor to your holiday cocktails. They can also bring a welcome variety to a traditional cookie tray or act as a charming, edible topping for your Christmas cakes, cupcakes, tarts, and other festive desserts. Their bright citrus notes and rich chocolate coating make them a standout addition to any holiday spread.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting these delectable chocolate-dipped candied orange slices requires just a handful of simple ingredients. Quality ingredients will ensure the best flavor and texture, so choose wisely!
- Oranges: The star of our show! I highly recommend using a combination of different types of oranges to add visual appeal and a spectrum of flavors. My personal favorites are the sweet and vibrant **blood oranges** and the delightfully pink **cara cara oranges**. You can also use classic **navel oranges**, or any other variety you enjoy eating. Ensure they are firm and have blemish-free skin, as the rind is a key component of this treat. For best results, consider organic oranges since you’ll be consuming the peel.
- Granulated Sugar: This is essential for creating the sweet syrup that transforms the tart orange slices into candied perfection. Granulated sugar dissolves easily and creates a clear, delicious syrup.
- Water: Plain tap water or filtered water will work perfectly here. It combines with the sugar to form the candying syrup.
- Chocolate: The choice of chocolate can significantly impact the final flavor. I personally love the depth and slight bitterness of **dark chocolate melting wafers** as it beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the candied orange. However, **milk chocolate** or even **white chocolate** can also be used for a different, equally delicious flavor profile. High-quality melting wafers or finely chopped chocolate bars designed for melting will yield the smoothest, most professional-looking finish.
- Flaky Sea Salt: (Optional, but highly recommended!) A sprinkle of flaky sea salt, such as **Fleur de Sel** or a good quality coarse sea salt, is the secret ingredient that truly elevates these treats. The salt provides a delightful crunch and a crucial counterpoint to the sweetness of the orange and chocolate, enhancing all the flavors.
Essential Kitchen Tools for This Recipe
Having the right tools on hand will make the process of creating these delicious candied orange slices smooth and enjoyable. Here’s a list of the must-haves for this recipe:
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board are crucial for safely and evenly slicing your oranges. Evenly sliced oranges ensure consistent cooking.
- Mandoline Slicer (Optional, but Recommended): For ultimate precision and perfectly uniform slices, a mandoline is an excellent tool. It can make the slicing process much faster and easier, especially if you’re candying a large batch of oranges.
- Wide, Large Skillet: An ideal skillet for cooking the orange slices should be wide, preferably at least 12 inches in diameter. The wider the skillet, the more orange slices you can cook in a single layer, reducing the need for multiple batches. This ensures even simmering and candying.
- Half Sheet Baking Sheets: You’ll need one or two half sheet baking sheets. These are used for allowing the candied orange slices to dry after simmering and then for setting the chocolate once dipped. Lining them with parchment paper prevents sticking.
- Parchment Paper: Essential for lining baking sheets, ensuring the candied oranges don’t stick during drying and the chocolate-dipped slices set beautifully without sticking.
- Small Bowl (for melting chocolate): A microwave-safe bowl if using the microwave method, or a heat-proof bowl for a double-boiler setup.
Featured Equipment for Candied Orange Slices
Wide Large Skillet
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Cutting Board
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Mandoline Slicer
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How to Make Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices
Creating these elegant chocolate-dipped candied orange slices is a rewarding process that, while requiring a bit of time for simmering and drying, is incredibly simple in execution. Follow these steps for perfect results every time:
1. Slice Your Oranges Perfectly
Begin by washing your oranges thoroughly, especially since you’ll be consuming the rind. Using a sharp chef’s knife or a mandoline, slice your oranges into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds. Consistency is key here; uneven slices will cook at different rates, leading to some being overcooked and others undercooked. After slicing, carefully remove any seed fragments that may be present. No one wants to bite into a seed when enjoying these delightful treats!
2. Crafting the Candying Syrup
In a wide, large skillet, combine the granulated sugar and water. Place the skillet over medium-high heat and whisk constantly until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture comes to a rolling boil. Once the syrup is clear, carefully arrange the orange slices in a single layer within the pan. It’s crucial for the slices to be in a single layer to ensure even candying. If your pan isn’t wide enough to accommodate all slices in one layer, you may need to work in batches.
3. Simmer to Perfection
Once the orange slices are submerged in the syrup, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the slices to cook, uncovered, for approximately 1 hour. During this time, the oranges will absorb the sugar syrup, becoming beautifully translucent and tender. You don’t need to constantly watch them; just let them do their thing. Once translucent, carefully remove the candied orange slices from the syrup and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. To achieve the desired chewy texture, let them dry out, uncovered, on a cooling rack for at least 24 hours. They will still feel slightly sticky to the touch, which is perfectly normal.
4. The Decadent Chocolate Dip
Once your candied orange slices are sufficiently dry, it’s time for the chocolate! Melt your chosen chocolate (dark, milk, or white) using either a microwave or a double-boiler method. For microwave melting, heat the chocolate in 10-15 second increments, stirring well after each interval, until smooth and fully melted. If using a double boiler, place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, stirring until melted. Dip each candied orange slice halfway into the luscious melted chocolate. Immediately after dipping, if desired, sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Return the chocolate-dipped slices to the parchment-lined baking sheet to harden. Allow them to set for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or in the refrigerator for quicker setting, before serving or storing. Full storage instructions can be found below in the post and in the recipe card.
Tips for Candied Orange Slice Success
Achieving perfectly candied and chocolate-dipped orange slices is easier than you think, especially with these helpful tips:
- Slice Them Evenly for Uniform Results: This is perhaps the most crucial tip! If your orange slices vary in thickness, they will cook at different rates, leading to an inconsistent texture. Aim for a consistent 1/4-inch thickness for a classic result. If you prefer them to cook a bit faster and have a slightly more delicate texture, you can go for 1/8-inch slices. A mandoline slicer is highly recommended for achieving professional-level uniformity with minimal effort.
- Thoroughly Remove All Seeds: After slicing, take a moment to meticulously remove any seed fragments from each orange slice. Biting into a hard seed can be an unpleasant surprise and detract from the otherwise smooth and delicious experience.
- Experiment with Different Citrus Fruits: Don’t limit yourself to just oranges! This candying method works wonderfully with various citrus fruits. Consider using lemons for a zesty, tart contrast, limes for a bright, tropical twist, or even grapefruit for a more complex, slightly bitter note. Each citrus will offer its own unique flavor profile when candied and dipped in chocolate, opening up a world of gourmet possibilities.
- Don’t Discard the Flavorful Candying Syrup: Once you’ve removed your candied orange slices, you’ll be left with a beautifully aromatic and sweet citrus-infused syrup. This liquid gold is far too precious to throw away! It makes an exceptional simple syrup substitute in seasonal cocktails, adding a complex citrus sweetness. You can also drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or even use it to moisten cakes. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Ensure Slices are Dry Before Dipping: For the chocolate to adhere properly and set with a smooth finish, your candied orange slices must be sufficiently dry. The 24-hour drying period is important. If they are too sticky or moist, the chocolate may not coat them evenly or could seize.
- Use Quality Chocolate: The better the quality of your chocolate, the better your final product will taste and look. Choose chocolate that melts smoothly for easy dipping and a beautiful, glossy finish.
Looking for more festive treats to whip up this season? Explore these delicious recipes: Crockpot Cinnamon Almonds | Gingerbread Christmas Crack Candy | Chocolate Covered Oreos | Crispy Bourbon Buckeyes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Exactly Are Candied Orange Slices?
Candied orange slices are a delightful edible garnish or standalone treat made by simmering thinly sliced oranges in a sugar syrup until they become translucent and tender. The process transforms the bitter rind into a wonderfully chewy and sweet texture, while the inside pulp remains soft and juicy. The result is a vibrant, intensely orange-flavored candy with a satisfying gummy-like chew. When dipped in chocolate and sprinkled with sea salt, they reach a new pinnacle of deliciousness, offering a complex symphony of sweet, tangy, bitter, and salty notes.
Can I Use Other Types of Citrus?
Absolutely, yes! The candying process outlined in this recipe is wonderfully versatile and works beautifully for a variety of other citrus fruits. Feel free to experiment with thinly sliced lemons, limes, tangerines, or even grapefruit. Each type of citrus will lend its unique flavor profile, allowing you to create your own bespoke candied citrus slices. Whether you dip them in chocolate or enjoy them plain, the method remains the same, opening up a world of delicious possibilities for your gourmet treats and garnishes.
Do These Candied Orange Slices Need Refrigeration?
Yes, they definitely do. Once they’ve been dipped in chocolate, it’s highly recommended to store them in the refrigerator. The chocolate coating can soften or even melt at room temperature, especially in warmer environments, leading to a messy and sticky treat. Refrigeration helps the chocolate stay firm and prevents the slices from becoming overly sticky, ensuring they remain in their best condition for enjoyment. Store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can You Freeze Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices?
Yes, absolutely! These chocolate-dipped candied orange slices freeze exceptionally well, making them perfect for preparing in advance or extending their shelf life. To freeze them, first ensure the chocolate is completely set. Then, arrange the slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and flash freeze for about an hour until firm. Once firm, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag, placing layers of parchment or wax paper between them to prevent sticking. They will maintain their quality in the freezer for approximately 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator until defrosted.
What to do with the Leftover Candying Syrup?
As mentioned in the tips, don’t throw away that flavorful, citrus-infused syrup! It’s a wonderful by-product of this recipe. This syrup can be used in numerous ways:
- Cocktails: Substitute it for plain simple syrup in cocktails like Old Fashioneds, Gin & Tonics, or even a refreshing lemonade. It adds a vibrant citrus dimension.
- Sweetener: Drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, yogurt, or oatmeal for an extra burst of orange flavor.
- Baking: Use it to moisten sponge cakes or brush over baked goods for added flavor and shine.
- Tea: Stir a spoonful into your hot tea for a naturally sweet and fragrant beverage.
Simply store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Need some more inspiration for sweet treats? Check out my desserts recipe page for a wealth of ideas!
Serving Suggestions for Candied Orange Slices
These versatile chocolate-dipped candied orange slices offer a multitude of serving possibilities, making them a fantastic addition to any festive occasion or a simple daily indulgence. Here are a few creative ways to enjoy them:
- On a Holiday Cookie Tray: Elevate your holiday cookie assortment by including these vibrant and sophisticated treats. Their bright citrus color and rich chocolate contrast beautifully with traditional cookies, making your platter visually stunning and offering a refreshing flavor profile. They are perfect alongside:
- Chai Snickerdoodle Cookies: The warm spices of chai pair wonderfully with the zesty orange.
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies: A festive combination of mint, chocolate, and orange for a true holiday explosion.
- Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars (especially with eggnog buttercream frosting!): The creamy frosting would be a delightful pairing.
- Christmas Shortbread Cookies: A classic buttery cookie that complements the sophisticated orange and chocolate.
- Elegant Dessert Garnish: These slices are a dream for decorating desserts. Their glossy finish and appealing shape instantly add a touch of gourmet sophistication to any sweet creation.
- Ginger Cranberry Orange Loaf Cake: The candied orange slices would enhance the existing citrus notes and add visual appeal.
- Chocolate Tart with Hazelnut Crust: A rich, decadent tart perfectly accented by the tangy-sweet orange and chocolate.
- Orange Pound Cake: Emphasize the orange flavor profile with a beautiful candied slice on top.
- Orange Cupcakes: A candied orange slice transforms a simple cupcake into a truly elegant dessert.
They are also gorgeous on cheesecakes, frosted layer cakes, and even simple bowls of ice cream or panna cotta!
- Cocktail Garnish: For a sophisticated finishing touch, use a candied orange slice to garnish your favorite cocktails. It adds both a beautiful aesthetic and a delightful aroma.
- My Smoked Orange Old Fashioned: The smoky notes would beautifully complement the sweet and tangy orange.
- My friend Susannah’s Orange Gin and Tonic: A refreshing and visually appealing addition to a classic G&T.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these chocolate-dipped candied orange slices are guaranteed to be a hit!
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Proper storage is essential to keep your chocolate-dipped candied orange slices fresh and delicious for as long as possible:
- Storing in the Refrigerator: Once the chocolate has completely set and is firm to the touch, carefully place the slices in an airtight container. If you need to stack them, place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer. This simple step is crucial to prevent the slices from sticking together, especially in the refrigerator’s humid environment. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for optimal freshness and texture.
- Freezing for Longer Preservation: These candied orange slices are fantastic for longer-term storage in the freezer. To freeze, first ensure the chocolate is completely hardened. You can flash freeze them first by laying them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about an hour until firm. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe, airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, again using parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent them from sticking. They will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer them to the refrigerator overnight or for a few hours until they are ready to enjoy.
With these storage tips, you can enjoy your homemade chocolate-dipped candied orange slices for days or even months to come!
Finally, if you make these delightful **chocolate dipped candied orange slices**, please take a moment to give this recipe a rating or leave a comment below! I genuinely love hearing from you and seeing your creations. Your feedback is invaluable, and I make sure to respond to every single comment. Don’t hesitate to drop any questions you might have about the recipe too!
And of course, be sure to tag me on Instagram if you share your creations! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite part of what I do. It means the world to me!
Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices Recipe Card
Equipment
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Nonstick 12-Inch Skillet
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Shun Chef’s Knife
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Utility Cutting Board
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Half Sheet Pan
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 oranges (any kind, a combination of navel, cara cara, and blood oranges works beautifully)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup dark chocolate melting wafers (or milk chocolate/white chocolate chips/bars, melted)
- Flaky sea salt (optional, but highly recommended for flavor balance)
Instructions
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Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside; this will be used for both drying and setting the chocolate.
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Wash oranges thoroughly. Slice oranges into uniform 1/4-inch slices. Ensure you remove any seeds or seed fragments before proceeding to cook.
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In a wide, large skillet, combine the granulated sugar and water. Place over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, whisking constantly until the sugar has completely dissolved and the syrup is clear.
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Carefully add the orange slices to the skillet in a single, even layer. You may need to cook the slices in batches depending on the size of your skillet. Reduce heat and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Simmer uncovered for approximately 1 hour, or until the orange slices appear beautifully translucent.
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Using tongs or a fork, remove the candied orange slices from the syrup and place them onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet or a cooling rack set over the baking sheet. Let the slices dry, uncovered, at room temperature for at least 24 hours. They will still be slightly sticky, which is normal for candied fruit.
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Once dried, prepare your chocolate. Place chocolate melting wafers (or chopped chocolate) in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt in 10-15 second increments, stirring well after each, until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, melt the chocolate using a double-boiler method over medium-low heat.
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Dip each candied orange slice halfway into the melted chocolate. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off. Immediately after dipping, sprinkle with flaky sea salt (if using) onto the wet chocolate. Return the dipped slice to the parchment-lined baking sheet to set.
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Repeat the dipping process for all remaining slices. Let them set for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or transfer to the refrigerator for faster setting, until the chocolate is completely hardened before serving or storing.
Notes
Nutrition