As I unwrapped the vibrant orange peel, its invigorating scent of citrus wrapped around me like a warm hug. Candied Orange Peel (Chocolate Covered) is not just a treat; it’s a blissful bite that brightens any moment you crave something sweet. This zesty confection offers a delightful mix of chewy tenderness and a sugar-kissed exterior, making it a satisfying low-carb and gluten-free dessert option. Perfect for jazzing up your dessert table or sharing as thoughtful gifts during the holidays—this recipe is simple enough to whip up any time of year! Plus, if you’re looking to add a rich touch, coating them in chocolate elevates this treat to pure bliss. Ready to take your sweet tooth on a citrus adventure? Let’s dive into this easy recipe!

Why Choose Chocolate-Covered Candied Orange Peel?

Decadent Surprise: A luscious layer of chocolate transforms the classic candied orange peel into a gourmet treat that feels indulgent yet homemade.
Easy to Make: With this simple process, you’ll be impressing friends and family in no time—perfect for those who enjoy a straightforward recipe without complex techniques.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Made with just a few wholesome ingredients, these treats fit seamlessly into gluten-free and low-carb diets.
Versatile Gift: Packaged beautifully, chocolate-covered candied orange peels become an exciting gift that’s sure to delight during any holiday season.
Flavor Explosion: The zesty orange combined with rich chocolate creates a harmonious contrast, making each bite a flavor-packed experience you won’t soon forget.
Indulge in this delightful creation and elevate your dessert game with these easy-to-make treats that will leave everyone asking for more!

Candied Orange Peel (Chocolate Covered) Ingredients

• Create this delightful treat with just a few key ingredients!

For the Candied Orange Peel

Oranges – Use organic oranges to ensure the best flavor since you’ll be consuming the peel.
Water – Essential for boiling the orange peels to remove bitterness.
Sugar – Traditional granulated sugar helps create that signature sticky syrup; feel free to substitute with coconut or Stevia for a low-carb approach.
Vanilla Bean – This optional ingredient adds a lovely depth of flavor to your syrup.

For the Chocolate Coating

Dark Chocolate – Use high-quality chocolate for a rich finish; melting chocolate chips works perfectly!
Coconut Oil – A touch of coconut oil makes the melted chocolate smoother and easier to coat your peels.

Craft these candied orange peels (chocolate covered) to impress your guests or to savor during a serene moment at home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Candied Orange Peel (Chocolate Covered)

Step 1: Prepare Oranges
Begin by gently washing the organic oranges under cool running water. Trim off the tops and bottoms, then score the peel in quarters for easy slicing. Slice the scored peel into thin strips, ensuring each piece remains uniform. This will ensure even cooking and enhance the final texture of your candied orange peel.

Step 2: Boil Peels
In a medium pot, place the orange peel strips and cover them with water. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium heat, then drain the peels in a colander. Repeat this boiling process two more times, each session lasting about 5 minutes. This method will help reduce any bitterness, making your candied orange peel sweet and delightful.

Step 3: Simmer in Syrup
Return the boiled orange peels to the pot, adding enough fresh water to cover them. Stir in the sugar and optional vanilla bean for added flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the peels become translucent and tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even coating in the syrup.

Step 4: Cool
Once the orange peels have reached the desired tenderness, remove the pot from the heat. Allow the peels to rest in the syrup for about 5 minutes, as this will further enhance their flavor. They should look glossy and succulent—perfect for your candied orange peel.

Step 5: Dry Peels
Using a fork, carefully transfer the peels to a drying rack, ensuring they’re spaced apart. Allow the candied orange peels to dry for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, in a cool, non-humid area. This step is key to achieving the right texture and prevents them from becoming overly sticky.

Step 6: Coat with Chocolate
While the peels are drying, melt the dark chocolate with a touch of coconut oil in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water or in the microwave. Once the chocolate is smooth, dip each dried candied orange peel in the chocolate, ensuring it’s well-coated. Place them back on the drying rack to let the chocolate set.

Step 7: Cool and Store
After the chocolate has fully hardened, your candied orange peels are ready to be stored. Transfer them to an airtight container or beautifully package them as gifts. Keep the candied orange peel (chocolate covered) in the refrigerator for up to a month for optimal freshness and flavor.

Expert Tips for Candied Orange Peel

Reduce Bitterness: Rinse peels well before boiling to lessen bitterness, ensuring a sweeter final product in your candied orange peel.
Uniform Cuts: Slice the orange peels uniformly for even cooking, preventing some pieces from being overcooked while others are still tough.
Proper Drying: Dry the candied peels in a cool, non-humid environment for best texture; humidity can lead to stickiness.
Chocolate Quality: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for coating; it elevates the flavor of your treats significantly.
Storage Tips: Store candied orange peel (chocolate covered) in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to a month.

Make Ahead Options

These Candied Orange Peel (Chocolate Covered) treats are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the candied orange peels up to 3 days in advance by following the first five steps of the recipe. After boiling and simmering the peels in syrup, allow them to dry for at least 8 hours (or preferably overnight) in a cool place. Once dried, store the peels in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their delightful texture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy or share these treats, simply dip them in melted chocolate, let them set, and you’ll have an impressive, restaurant-quality dessert with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Candied Orange Peel (Chocolate Covered)?

Treat your taste buds by pairing complementary flavors and textures with this delightful sweet treat!

Creamy Chocolate Mousse: The rich and airy texture of chocolate mousse provides a luxurious contrast that enhances the zesty orange flavor. It’s a sophisticated pairing perfect for dinner parties.
Fresh Mint Tea: The refreshing, herbal notes of mint tea cleanse the palate, making it an ideal beverage to accompany the sweet and citrusy treat.
Cheese Plate: Create a platter with sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or tangy goat cheese. Their saltiness beautifully balances the sweetness of the candied orange peels. A hint of honey drizzled over the cheese brings a lovely harmony!
Dark Chocolate Truffles: Reinforce the chocolate experience by serving rich, handmade truffles. The indulgence of more chocolate will delight any sweet tooth and highlight the flavors.
Spiced Nuts: A mix of roasted and spiced nuts adds crunch and a savory element to balance the sweetness of the candied peels. The texture contrast makes each bite exciting!
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings a soothing creaminess that pairs beautifully with the zesty flavors of the candied orange peel. Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup for extra decadence!

Candied Orange Peel Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your candied orange peel – each delightful twist adds a unique flavor and texture!

Citrus Swap: Replace oranges with lemons or grapefruit for a fresh citrus twist.
Sweetener Change: Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor profile.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of ginger to the syrup for a warm, spiced essence.
Colorful Coating: Experiment with white or milk chocolate to diversify the flavor and visual appeal.
Nutty Flavor: After coating, sprinkle with crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios for extra crunch.
Dark Chocolate Delight: Go for a more intense flavor by using dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content.
Coconut Bliss: Try rolling the finished peels in shredded coconut after sugar coating for a tropical touch.
Zesty Infusion: Add a hint of orange extract to the syrup for an amplified citrus burst that will brighten your treat.

These variations allow you to tailor the recipe to your tastes and dietary needs. You can also check out these delicious low-carb delights to see how similar principles apply across different treats!

How to Store and Freeze Candied Orange Peel

Fridge: Keep candied orange peel (chocolate covered) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a month, ensuring it stays fresh and delicious.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the candied orange peel in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. It can last up to three months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for a few hours, and if desired, re-coat with chocolate for a fresh finish before serving.

Drying: Ensure peels are well-dried before storing to avoid stickiness; this helps retain their delightful chewy texture.

Candied Orange Peel (Chocolate Covered) Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best oranges for candied orange peel?
Absolutely! When choosing oranges, opt for organic ones to ensure the peels are free from harmful pesticides, as you’ll be consuming the skin. Look for firm oranges with a vibrant color and no dark spots. Fresh oranges should feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness.

What’s the best way to store candied orange peel?
Very! Store your candied orange peel (chocolate covered) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a month. This keeps them fresh and tasty. Always ensure that the peels are well-dried before placing them in the container to prevent stickiness.

Can I freeze candied orange peel, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! For long-term storage, place the candied orange peel in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen peels into a freezer-safe bag or container, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months! When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours.

What should I do if my candied orange peels are too bitter?
If your candied orange peels taste too bitter, rinse them under cold water and boil them again. Repeat this process of boiling for about 5 minutes for each session to reduce bitterness. The flavors will evolve, improving the overall sweetness. A few extra rinses can also help!

Are candied orange peels safe for dogs or pets?
It’s best to avoid giving candied orange peels to dogs or pets. The sugar content, as well as the potential for some citrus fruits to cause stomach upset, can lead to discomfort. Always consult with your vet if you’re unsure about safe treat options for your furry friends.

What if I want to alter the sweetness in my recipe?
Certainly! You can play around with the sweetness by substituting traditional sugar with alternatives like coconut sugar or Stevia. Keep in mind that Stevia is much sweeter, so you’ll need to adjust the quantity significantly. If you’re using maple syrup or honey, remember that these will also affect the texture and moisture of your final product, so a little experimentation may be needed!