Homemade Candied Orange Peel Recipe

I used to just toss orange peels in the compost after making an Orange Julius Smoothie or grabbing a quick snack… until I realized they’re the secret to the BEST holiday treat. This candied orange peel recipe sound fancy, but really, it’s just me working a little mom-magic with what I’d normally throw away.

They’re sweet, chewy, and totally addictive—my kids think it’s candy, and I love that it’s made from scraps. The best part? They make the cutest homemade gift. I’ll fill up a jar, tie on a ribbon, and suddenly I’ve got something thoughtful (and a little unique) to share with friends and neighbors. It feels good knowing I turned everyday leftovers into something special.

Why You’ll Love Candied Orange Peels

Some treats just hit that sweet spot (literally). Candied orange peels are one of those magical snacks that feels indulgent, smells amazing, and somehow manages to be good for you, too. Here’s why it’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Zesty-sweet balance with a health boost: The natural oils in orange peel contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, while the candied coating adds just the right touch of sweetness.
• Vitamin C powerhouse: Orange peel holds even more vitamin C than the fruit itself, which is good for your immune system and skin health.
• Homemade gourmet vibes: It looks like a specialty confection but comes together easily in your own kitchen, making it both budget-friendly and impressive.
• Versatile snacking + gifting magic: Dip in dark chocolate for extra antioxidants, chop into baked goods for citrusy flair, or package it up as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Candied orange peel is one of those recipes that feels fancy but comes together with the simplest ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make it:

• Fresh orange peels: Save the peels from a classic navel or Valencia oranges, since their thicker skins candy beautifully and aren’t as bitter. Cara Cara or blood oranges can also work if you’d like a tangier flavor or more colorful peel. Choose organic if you can, since the peel is the part you’ll be eating.
• Sugar: The magic ingredient that transforms bitter peels into a candy-like delight. Regular granulated sugar works perfectly here, and you probably already have it in your pantry. If not, grab a bag from the baking aisle of any grocery store.

How to Make this Candied Orange Peel Recipe

This sweet, citrusy treat comes together with just a few simple steps, and most of the work is hands-off while your peels simmer away. Here’s how to make it:

1. Slice off both ends of the orange. Cut the peel around the orange into 4-5 vertical segments (depending on size), then remove the rind. 
2. Try to make sure the peel you cut has some of the white pith attached.

3. Take each orange peel and slice it into ¼-inch strips.
4. Make sure the peels are evenly cut into strips which helps them cook evenly in the syrup.

5. Place the orange peels in a pot of boiling water, and simmer them for 15 minutes. Drain and rinse to remove bitterness. You can repeat this process multiple times to remove more of the bitterness.
6. Take another pot and add 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. 

7. Add the orange peels into the boiling sugar syrup.
8. Reduce heat, and simmer for 45–60 minutes until translucent.

9. Use a slotted spoon or a spider strainer (also known as a spider skimmer) to remove the peels from the syrup and let excess syrup drip off.
10. Toss the peels in a bowl of sugar until well coated.

Fun Ways to Use Candied Orange Peels

Candied orange peels are little kitchen gems that can do so much more than just sit pretty in a jar. Once you’ve made a batch, try these fun ways to enjoy them:

• As a sweet treat: Pop a few pieces straight from the jar whenever you need a quick pick-me-up. They’re chewy, citrusy, and just the right amount of sweet.
• Garnish for cocktails or mocktails: Use a strip of candied peel to jazz up a glass of sangria, a holiday cocktail, or even sparkling water for instant fancy vibes.
• Chopped into baked goods: Stir tiny pieces into muffin batter, fruitcake, or scones for bursts of zesty flavor baked right in.
• Chocolate-dipped for gifts: Dip candied peels into melted dark chocolate, let them set, then package them in a cute jar or box. 
• Elevate other recipes: Sprinkle a few slices on a cranberry relish for Thanksgiving (it’ll have your sister or aunt talking!), chop into your steel cut oats or vegan yogurt for a bright and citrusy taste.

Easy Swaps and Add-Ins

Want to switch things up in this candied orange peel recipe? Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Swap oranges: Try a different citrus flavor by using lemon, grapefruit, or lime peels. You can even follow along with my candied lemon peel recipe. It has the same chewy sweetness as orange peel, but with that fresh, tangy lemon punch that instantly wakes up your taste buds.
• Swap refined sugar: For the softening process try natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar instead of refined sugar for a more natural sweetness.
• Add spice: Infuse the syrup with cinnamon, cloves, rosemary, vanilla bean, or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.

More Orange Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re loving the bright, zesty flavor of candied orange peel, you’ll want to try these orange smoothie recipes. They’re refreshing, nourishing, and the perfect excuse to stock up on more oranges—so you’ll always have plenty of peels ready for your next batch of candied orange peel!

• For a unique veggie boost, the Orange Cabbage Smoothie blends citrus with nutrient-rich cabbage for a detoxifying and surprisingly refreshing drink.
• Bright and energizing, this Orange Cranberry Smoothie combines tart cranberries, sweet oranges, juicy pineapple, and ripe peaches into one fruity burst of flavor.
• When you want extra nourishment, try my Orange Superfood Smoothie made with four powerhouse ingredients that deliver antioxidants and plant-based fuel.
• A creamy, dreamy throwback, the Orange Julius Smoothie is free from processed sugar and dairy—yet still tastes better than the mall original.

If you make this candied orange peel recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comment box below. Your feedback helps me and all the readers in this community. And if you’re interested in more plant-based recipes (and exclusive content), sign up for my weekly recipe newsletter.