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Homemade Candied Cinnamon Orange Slices: Easy Recipe

candied cinnamon orange slices - featured image

These chewy, sweet candied orange slices are infused with warm cinnamon and make a perfect snack, gift, or garnish. An easy recipe that fills your kitchen with a cozy, holiday-like aroma.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large or 4 medium oranges (preferably organic, such as Navel or Cara Cara)
  • 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 cups (480 ml) water
  • 3 to 4 cinnamon sticks (preferably Ceylon cinnamon)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Oranges: Wash oranges thoroughly. Slice off the very top and bottom of each orange, then slice crosswise into 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick rounds. You should get about 6 to 8 slices per orange.
  2. Blanch the Slices: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add orange slices and boil for 2 to 3 minutes. Drain and rinse with cool water. Repeat the blanching process one more time with fresh water.
  3. Make the Cinnamon Syrup: In a large pot, combine sugar, water, and cinnamon sticks. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar is dissolved. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Simmer the Slices: Carefully place blanched orange slices in the simmering syrup in a single layer. Reduce heat to low and let them cook gently for 45 to 60 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the peel is translucent and tender.
  5. Cool in the Syrup: Turn off the heat and let the slices sit in the warm syrup for 30 minutes to absorb more flavor.
  6. Dry the Slices: Line a cooling rack with parchment paper and place over a baking sheet. Using a slotted spoon, lift slices out of syrup, letting excess drip off. Arrange in a single layer on the rack. Let dry at room temperature for 6 to 12 hours or overnight, until tacky to the touch.
  7. Optional: Coat in Sugar: Once dry, toss slices in a bowl of granulated sugar for a sparkly finish.

Notes

Don’t skip the blanching step—it removes bitterness. Use a gentle simmer to avoid breaking slices. Save the leftover syrup for cocktails, pancakes, or tea. For longer storage, dry slices further in a 200°F oven for 1-2 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: candied orange slices, cinnamon orange slices, homemade candy, easy candied fruit, holiday treats, edible gifts