Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

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Chocolate Covered Orange Peels are the perfect balance of bright citrus and deep, rich chocolate—a candy that feels fancy yet is surprisingly simple to make at home. Imagine the tangy bitterness of orange peel transformed into a chewy, candy-like treat, dipped in velvety dark chocolate and sprinkled with just the right amount of sugar. This old-fashioned delicacy has all the charm of a European confection shop but comes together with just a few ingredients from your kitchen.

Whether you’re gifting a homemade treat, prepping for a holiday dessert tray, or just want something indulgent with your evening espresso, these chocolate-dipped orange peels check every box. They store beautifully, look striking with their sugar-crusted shimmer, and bring an unexpected touch of gourmet to your table.

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Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

• Elegant and easy: They look like something from a luxury sweet shop, but they’re totally doable at home.
• Great for gifting: Wrapped in cellophane with a bow, they make a stunning handmade present.
• Naturally vibrant flavor: No artificial flavoring here—just real citrus and quality chocolate.
• Customizable: Use milk chocolate, dark, or even white chocolate. Add a touch of sea salt or chili flakes for a flavor twist.
• Zero waste: It’s a creative way to use orange peels that might otherwise be tossed!

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin, have your tools prepped and workspace clean. These treats come together easily with the right setup:

• Sharp knife: Essential for slicing the orange peels into even strips without too much pith.
• Medium saucepan: Used for blanching and simmering the peels in sugar syrup. A heavy-bottom pan ensures even cooking.
• Slotted spoon or tongs: For removing peels from hot water or syrup safely.
• Cooling rack or parchment paper: To let the peels dry after candying.
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl: For melting the chocolate evenly without burning.
• Fork or dipping tool: Makes it easy to dip the peels into chocolate without getting messy.
• Airtight container: For storing the finished candy and keeping it fresh.

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Ingredients for the Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

• Fresh oranges: Choose thick-skinned oranges like navel or Valencia for easy peeling and maximum flavor. The peel is the star here, and it brings a fresh, zesty aroma and slight bitterness that balances the sweetness of the candy coating.
• Granulated sugar: Used to both candy the orange peels and for coating. It transforms the peel into a chewy, sweet treat and helps preserve it.
• Water: Essential for boiling the peels and making the sugar syrup. It softens the peels and removes any bitterness.
• Dark chocolate (or chocolate of choice): Melts into a glossy coating that gives these treats their indulgent edge. Dark chocolate offers the best contrast to the sweet candied peel.

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How To Make the Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

Step 1: Peel and Slice the Oranges

Use a sharp knife to cut the orange peel into long strips, about 1/4-inch wide. Try to remove most of the white pith, but some is okay—it adds a pleasant chew.

Step 2: Blanch the Peels

Place the peels in a saucepan with cold water. Bring to a boil, then drain. Repeat this process 2 more times to reduce bitterness. This step is key to mellowing the orange flavor.

Step 3: Candy the Peels

In a clean saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and water (e.g., 1 cup each). Stir to dissolve, then add the peels. Simmer on low heat for about 45-60 minutes until the peels become translucent.

Step 4: Dry the Peels

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the candied peels to a cooling rack or parchment-lined tray. Let them dry for 4 to 6 hours or overnight. Once slightly tacky, toss them in granulated sugar if desired.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate

Use a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals to melt the chocolate until smooth and glossy. Stir frequently to avoid scorching.

Step 6: Dip and Set

Dip each dried orange peel halfway into the melted chocolate. Let excess drip off, then place on parchment to set. You can refrigerate them briefly to help the chocolate firm up faster.

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How to Serve and Store Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

Serve your Chocolate Covered Orange Peels as a refined after-dinner treat, alongside coffee or tea. They also make a striking addition to dessert boards or cookie trays. Want a fancy garnish? Chop a few and sprinkle over ice cream or panna cotta for a citrusy crunch.

To store, place the peels in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They keep well at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for up to a month. If you’re making them ahead for gifts or events, you can even freeze them (just ensure they’re well-wrapped to avoid moisture).

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I avoid bitterness in the orange peels?

Blanching the peels 2 to 3 times in fresh water removes much of the bitterness. Don’t skip this step!

Can I use other citrus peels besides orange?

Absolutely! Lemon, grapefruit, and even tangerine peels work wonderfully. Just adjust cooking times depending on the thickness.

What kind of chocolate is best?

Dark chocolate is the classic choice for its bold contrast, but milk or white chocolate can offer a sweeter twist. Use high-quality chocolate for best results.

Can I make these in advance for gifts?

Yes! These store well and make excellent homemade gifts. Wrap in parchment and place in decorative tins or cellophane bags.

Do I have to use granulated sugar for coating?

No, it’s optional. The sugar coating adds a sparkly finish and extra sweetness, but you can skip it for a more refined look.

How do I keep the chocolate from blooming?

Make sure the peels are completely dry before dipping, and let the chocolate cool slightly before coating. Store in a cool, dry place to maintain the glossy finish.

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Want More Candy Treat Ideas?

If you’re a fan of homemade confections like these Chocolate Covered Orange Peels, there’s a good chance you’ll enjoy these other sweet treats too:

• Try the nostalgic charm of this Winter Brittle with a cozy crunch.
• Looking for citrus meets creamy? Dive into the bright, bold layers of Lemon Churro Cookies.
• Craving more chocolate? You can’t miss the Quick and Easy Fudgy Chocolate Brownie Cookies.
• For a nutty, buttery bite, check out the Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread.
• Need a holiday-ready classic? The Old Fashioned Egg Custard Pie delivers a timeless finish.

These recipes each bring their own special twist to your dessert table. From chewy to crunchy and everything in between, there’s something delicious for every sweet tooth.

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Let me know how your batch turned out! Did you go classic or try something fun like chili flakes or sea salt? If you have questions or variations to share, drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!

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