Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

Published: February 17, 2026

Introduction to Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

As a passionate home cook, there’s something magical about exploring new flavors in the kitchen. Candied orange peel chocolate is one such gem that never ceases to impress. It combines the zesty brightness of orange with the rich allure of dark chocolate, creating an irresistible treat. Whether you’re looking for a quick sweet distraction during a busy week or want to add a special touch to your dessert table, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Trust me, making these delightful morsels can turn any ordinary day into a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

You’ll love this candied orange peel chocolate because it’s surprisingly easy to make, even on a busy day. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a gourmet treat that’s perfect for sharing. The vibrant flavors will dance on your taste buds, leaving you and your loved ones craving more. Plus, homemade treats always come with a dash of love, making them all the more special!

Ingredients for Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

Gathering the right ingredients for your candied orange peel chocolate is essential to achieving that delightful balance of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Organic oranges: Choose four large organic oranges for the brightest flavor. The zest of a well-grown orange can elevate your treat.
Granulated sugar: This is the star ingredient that turns your orange peels into a sweet sensation. You’ll use this for candying as well as for coating.

Water: A simple necessity to dissolve the sugar and create the syrup. It’s the base that brings everything together.
High-quality dark chocolate: Aim for at least 70% cocoa. This richness perfectly complements the brightness of the orange peels, creating a balanced treat.

Extra granulated sugar: This is optional but adds a lovely sparkling finish to your candied peels, making them even more tempting!

You’ll find the exact quantities at the bottom of the article, but with these foundational ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to creating magic in the kitchen.

How to Make Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delightful process of making candied orange peel chocolate. Each step is straightforward, bringing you closer to those sweet, tangy treats. Here’s how to create them:

Prepare the Oranges

Score and Peel

Start with washing and drying the oranges thoroughly. This is important to remove any wax or residue. Next, score the peel into quarters. Use a sharp knife to cut gently down to the flesh, avoiding too much of the pith. Carefully peel away the rind, trying to keep as much of the white part intact. It’s this pith that adds a lovely texture and balance to your final product. After peeling, slice the orange rind into strips, about 1/4-inch wide. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; each piece will have its own character!

Blanch the Peel

Boiler Method

Next, it’s time to blanch the peels. Place your strips into a saucepan and cover them completely with cold water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s bubbling, drain the peels and repeat this process two more times. This technique reduces any bitterness from the orange peels and helps produce a sweeter treat. After three blanches, the peels will be ready for their sweet transformation!

Make the Syrup

Dissolving the Sugar

It’s syrup time! In a clean saucepan, combine your two cups of sugar with one cup of water. Turn the heat to medium and stir constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved. You want a nice, sweet syrup that will soak into the peels perfectly. Watching this step is almost like watching magic—turning granulated sugar into a silky liquid. Oh, the joy of homemade candy!

Candying the Peels

Simmering

Now comes the fun part! Add your blanched peels into the syrup. Reduce the heat to low, allowing them to simmer gently. Let them bask in the sweet liquid for 45 to 60 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure an even coating, watching as they magically transform into translucent, tender treats. Avoid letting it caramelize; you want your peels soaked, not stuck!

Dry the Candied Peels

Setting on a Wire Rack

Once the peels are perfectly candied, it’s time to dry them out. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the candied strips to a wire rack set over parchment paper. Allow them to dry for at least one hour. They should feel tacky but not sticky to the touch. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture that melts in your mouth!

Chocolate Coating

Melting the Chocolate

While those candied beauties are drying, let’s get the chocolate ready! Place your high-quality dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl and set it over a saucepan filled with barely simmering water. This is the double-boiler method. Stir gently until the chocolate is completely smooth and melted. The aroma wafting from the melting chocolate? Pure bliss!

Dip and Set

Final Touch

Now that everything is ready, let’s assemble the treats! Take each candied peel and dip it halfway into the melted chocolate. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off. Place the dipped candy on parchment paper. The chocolate will set in about 30 minutes at room temperature or 10 minutes in the fridge. Once set, you’ll have a stunning treat that’s not just a joy to eat but also a joy to behold!

Tips for Success

Always use organic oranges for the best flavor and quality.
Don’t skip the blanching process—it’s crucial to reducing bitterness.
Keep an eye on the syrup; a gentle simmer is key to avoiding caramelization.

Let the candied peels dry completely for optimal chocolate coating.
For the chocolate, choose high-quality options to enhance the overall taste.

Equipment Needed

Sharp knife: A good chef’s knife works perfectly for scoring and peeling.

Pans: Use a medium saucepan for boiling and a clean one for making syrup.
Wire rack: A cooling rack is ideal, but a plate can work in a pinch.
Heatproof bowl: A glass or metal bowl for the double boiler method.

Parchment paper: Essential for letting your chocolate-dipped peels set without sticking.

Variations of Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

Spiced Candied Peel: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the sugar syrup for a warm, cozy flavor twist.
Dark Chocolate Espresso: Mix in some instant espresso powder with the dark chocolate for a delightful mocha flavor.

Milk Chocolate Option: If dark chocolate isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute with high-quality milk chocolate for a sweeter treat.
Nutty Addition: Dip the candied orange peels in chocolate, then roll them in finely chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for added crunch.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free dark chocolate to make this treat completely vegan-friendly without compromising on taste.

Serving Suggestions for Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

Pair with a steaming cup of herbal tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
Serve alongside a scoop of rich vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Present on a decorative platter, garnished with fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch.

Pack in a charming box as a thoughtful gift for friends or family.
Add to a cheese platter for a unique, tangy contrast with soft cheeses.

FAQs about Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

As you embark on your candied orange peel chocolate adventure, you may have some questions. Here are a few common ones that can help guide you:

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of oranges?

Absolutely! Grapefruit or lemon peels can also be used to create unique flavor profiles. Just adjust the sugar to match their tartness.

How should I store the candied orange peel chocolate?

Store your treats in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks, though I doubt they’ll last that long!

Can I make these ahead of time for a special occasion?

Definitely! These treats hold up well, making them perfect for preparing in advance for gatherings. Just remember to keep them sealed.

Is this recipe suitable for kids to help with?

Yes, younger ones can get hands-on with assembling and decorating. Just supervise the melting chocolate part to keep things safe and fun!

Can I decrease the sugar in this recipe?

You can reduce the sugar a bit, but remember that it’s crucial for candying. Just don’t go overboard, or you might alter the texture!

Final Thoughts

Creating candied orange peel chocolate is not just a culinary adventure; it’s a journey filled with joy and deliciousness. Each step, from peeling the oranges to dipping them in chocolate, brings a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. The vibrant combination of zesty oranges and rich dark chocolate not only tantalizes your taste buds but also warms the heart. Whether you’re sharing these treats with loved ones or enjoying them solo, they create a slice of happiness in your day. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let the sweet magic unfold! You truly deserve it.