Stepping into my kitchen, I was met with the bright aroma of zesty oranges, a fragrant invitation to create something truly special. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Glazed Candied Oranges—a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of navel oranges with a hint of cinnamon and a touch of lemony brightness. Not only are these slices a stunning addition to your dessert table, but they’re also surprisingly simple and quick to make, which means you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re an excellent way to elevate both your snacks and layer cakes with their stunning, sun-kissed glaze. Whether you enjoy them on their own or drizzled with dark chocolate for an indulgent twist, these candied oranges promise to bring a touch of sunshine to any occasion. Curious about how to turn everyday oranges into this glorious treat? Let’s get started!
Why Are Glazed Candied Oranges So Irresistible?
Bright, Fresh Flavors: The sweet and zesty combination of oranges and fresh lemon juice will invigorate your taste buds.
Effortless Preparation: You only need a handful of ingredients and some basic techniques to create this delightful treat.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy them as a stand-alone dessert, in your morning yogurt, or as a garnish for cakes and pastries.
Stunning Presentation: With a glossy glaze and optional chocolate drizzle, they look as beautiful as they taste!
Perfect for Sharing: These glazed candied oranges are bound to impress guests, making them ideal for gatherings or holiday festivities.
Turn ordinary oranges into something extraordinary and check out my post on easy desserts for more such delightful recipes!
Glazed Candied Oranges Ingredients
For the Candied Oranges
• Navel oranges – four medium to large oranges are perfect for achieving that sweet, zesty flavor.
• Granulated sugar – two cups create a lovely syrup that beautifully coats the oranges.
• Water – two cups help dissolve the sugar and simmer the orange slices evenly.
• Fresh lemon juice – a ¼ cup brings a refreshing brightness that elevates the sweetness.
• Vanilla extract – one teaspoon adds a warm, aromatic note that harmonizes with the oranges.
• Ground cinnamon – ½ teaspoon infuses a cozy spice that complements the fruit beautifully.
• Salt – a ¼ teaspoon balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Orange zest – the zest of one orange offers a punch of citrus aroma and vibrant flavor.
• Dark chocolate (optional) – ½ cup for drizzling provides a luxurious contrast to the sweet citrus.
Now you’re all set to create these delightful Glazed Candied Oranges that will add a cheerful zest to your day!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Glazed Candied Oranges
Step 1: Prepare the Oranges
Start by washing the navel oranges thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or wax, ensuring they are clean and bright. Once dried, carefully cut each orange into uniform ¼-inch thick slices, taking care to remove any visible seeds as you slice. This will provide an even surface for the glaze.
Step 2: Create the Syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of granulated sugar and 2 cups of water over medium heat. Stir the mixture consistently until the sugar fully dissolves, and bring it to a gentle simmer. This syrup will serve as the sweet base for your Glazed Candied Oranges, coating each slice in a delightful glaze.
Step 3: Flavor the Syrup
Once simmering, add ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of salt to the saucepan. Stir well to incorporate the flavors into the syrup. The aroma of the cinnamon and vanilla will elevate the sweetness and create a fragrant base for your candied oranges.
Step 4: Simmer the Orange Slices
Carefully add the orange slices to the saucepan, making sure they are fully submerged in the syrup. If necessary, add a bit more water to cover the slices completely. Reduce the heat to low and allow the orange slices to simmer gently for 45–60 minutes. The slices will become translucent, and the syrup will thicken slightly, creating that beautiful candied finish.
Step 5: Transfer to Cool
Once the orange slices are ready, use a slotted spoon to transfer them onto a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This will allow any excess syrup to drip off, setting the stage for a perfectly glazed finish. Reserve the remaining syrup in the saucepan to brush over the candied oranges later for added sheen.
Step 6: Cool the Candied Oranges
Let the candied oranges cool completely on the wire rack for about 2 hours. This cooling period allows them to firm up and develop that delightful chewy texture, making your Glazed Candied Oranges even more enjoyable in every bite.
Step 7: Glaze the Oranges
After cooling, take the reserved syrup and gently brush it over the candied oranges with a pastry brush. This step adds a beautiful glossy finish to your slices, enhancing their appearance and flavor. The glaze will make them irresistibly shiny and inviting!
Step 8: Optional Chocolate Drizzle
If you'd like an extra touch of decadence, melt ½ cup of dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the glazed oranges, allowing it to create delectable patterns. Set the oranges aside once again to let the chocolate firm up before serving.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Glazed Candied Oranges as a delightful dessert, snack, or luxurious garnish for cakes and pastries. With their vibrant colors and sweet, zesty flavor, these treats will brighten up any table and make a lovely addition to your culinary repertoire.
Helpful Tricks for Glazed Candied Oranges
Uniform Slices: Ensure your orange slices are evenly cut for consistent cooking. Uneven slices may result in varying textures and flavors.
Monitor Simmering: Keep an eye on the heat while simmering the oranges. Too high of a heat may scorch the syrup, ruining your glaze.
Cooling Time Matters: Don't rush the cooling process; letting the candied oranges cool completely helps them firm up and develop that delightful chew.
Syrup Reserve: Always save extra syrup for glazing—this enhances the overall sweetness and shine of your Glazed Candied Oranges.
Chocolate Tip: If you opt for the chocolate drizzle, let it set before serving to ensure it doesn’t smear and creates a beautiful presentation!
Glazed Candied Oranges Variations & Substitutions
Ready to take your glazed candied oranges to a whole new level? Customize these delightful treats to suit your tastes!
- Citrus Twist: Substitute navel oranges with blood oranges or tangerines for a fun flavor change.
- Sugar-Free: Replace granulated sugar with a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia to enjoy a guilt-free dessert.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh ginger to the syrup for a unique heat element.
- Herb Infusion: Infuse the syrup with fresh thyme or rosemary for an unexpected savory contrast that complements the sweetness.
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle crushed pistachios or almonds on top of the chocolate drizzle for extra texture and a flavor boost.
- Caramel Glam: Instead of chocolate, drizzle with homemade caramel sauce for a decadent twist that will leave you craving more.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the dark chocolate drizzle and use coconut cream for a luscious alternative; it pairs perfectly with the citrus.
- Classic Lemonade: For an added tang, replace half of the water in the syrup with fresh lemonade and watch the freshness burst forth.
As you explore these variations, you'll discover new favorites that make each batch of glazed candied oranges uniquely yours! For more inspirational twists, don't miss my post on delicious desserts that can elevate any gathering. And if you're looking to explore more creative pairings, my guide on easy snack ideas is just the ticket!
What to Serve with Sweet and Zesty Glazed Candied Oranges
Elevate your culinary experience by pairing these bright, sweet orange slices with complementary dishes that entice the senses.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes creates a delightful contrast to the citrusy brightness of the oranges. It’s comfort food meets zesty elegance!
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Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of refreshing lemon sorbet will enhance the citrus flavors, cleansing your palate while keeping the meal light and invigorating.
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Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad with nuts and feta adds a crisp texture, balancing the sweetness of the candied oranges perfectly. Toss with a light vinaigrette for extra flair!
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Savory Cheese Platter: Pairing with aged cheeses, like brie or gouda, introduces a rich flavor that beautifully contrasts the zesty sweetness, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For those indulging with the optional dark chocolate drizzle, chocolate-covered strawberries make an ideal dessert topping. The combination is simply divine!
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Sparkling White Wine: A glass of sparkling white wine elevates the occasion, providing a bubbly refreshment that complements the sweetness of the glazed candied oranges beautifully.
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Greek Yogurt Parfait: Serve these oranges over creamy Greek yogurt layered with granola for a delightful breakfast or snack that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Embrace the joy of serving these beautiful glazed candied oranges alongside a mix of complementary flavors and textures, creating a magical meal that sings of celebration!
Make Ahead Options
These Glazed Candied Oranges are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to save precious time during busy days! You can prepare the candied orange slices up to 3 days in advance by completing steps 1 through 6. Once cooled, store the slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and flavorful. For optimal quality, brush them with the reserved syrup right before serving to maintain their glossy finish. When you're ready to enjoy, simply drizzle with melted dark chocolate if desired, and your delightful treat will be just as delicious as if you had made them fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Glazed Candied Oranges
Room Temperature: Keep the glazed candied oranges in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Enjoy their freshness while they last!
Fridge: For longer storage, place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for about 1 week. This also helps maintain their delightful texture.
Freezer: If you'd like to freeze them, arrange the orange slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for a few hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: If you prefer to enjoy them warm, gently reheat the glazed candied oranges in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will enhance their flavors and bring back their delectable zest!
Glazed Candied Oranges Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best oranges for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting navel oranges, look for medium to large fruit that feels firm and heavy for its size. Ideally, the skin should be smooth and vibrant without dark spots all over, as this indicates ripeness and freshness. If you can, pick organic oranges for the best flavor and to avoid pesticide residues.
How should I store leftover glazed candied oranges?
For room temperature storage, keep the glazed candied oranges in an airtight container for up to 3 days, enjoying their delightful taste while they last. If you want them to last longer, place the container in the fridge where they can stay fresh for about 1 week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Can I freeze glazed candied oranges, and how do I do it?
Yes! To freeze your glazed candied oranges, first arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Freeze them for about 2 to 3 hours until solid. Then, transfer the frozen slices to a freezer-safe bag or container, labeling it with the date. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature, and they’ll be ready to shine again!
What do I do if my candied oranges don’t get translucent?
No worries! If your orange slices aren’t achieving that lovely translucent look, it might be that they didn't simmer long enough or the heat was too high. To troubleshoot, ensure you're simmering them gently on low heat for 45-60 minutes. If they’re still not translucent after the recommended time, try increasing the simmer time, and keep an eye on the syrup’s consistency, which should thicken slightly.
Are glazed candied oranges safe for those with allergies?
Absolutely! However, be mindful of allergies. This recipe is free from common allergens like nuts and dairy, making it friendly for many diets. But if you or your loved ones are allergic to citrus or any of the other ingredients, such as vanilla, it’s best to avoid this recipe. As always, you can get creative by swapping out the orange for another fruit, though results may vary.
What if I want to make a healthier version of glazed candied oranges?
Very! If you’re looking for a lighter recipe, consider reducing the amount of sugar and using a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup instead. You could also substitute some of the sugar with orange juice for an extra burst of flavor while cutting down on refined sugar. Just ensure the fruit slices still have ample sweetness to balance the tartness of the lemon juice!
Deliciously Sweet Glazed Candied Oranges for a Perfect Treat
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- wire rack
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
For the Candied Oranges
- 4 medium to large Navel oranges
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups water
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 zest orange
- ½ cup dark chocolate optional for drizzling
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Glazed Candied Oranges
- Start by washing the navel oranges thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or wax, ensuring they are clean and bright. Once dried, carefully cut each orange into uniform ¼-inch thick slices, taking care to remove any visible seeds as you slice.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of granulated sugar and 2 cups of water over medium heat. Stir the mixture consistently until the sugar fully dissolves and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Once simmering, add ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of salt to the saucepan. Stir well to incorporate the flavors into the syrup.
- Carefully add the orange slices to the saucepan, making sure they are fully submerged in the syrup. If necessary, add a bit more water to cover the slices completely. Reduce the heat to low and allow the orange slices to simmer gently for 45–60 minutes.
- Once the orange slices are ready, use a slotted spoon to transfer them onto a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
- Let the candied oranges cool completely on the wire rack for about 2 hours.
- After cooling, take the reserved syrup and gently brush it over the candied oranges with a pastry brush.
- If you'd like an extra touch of decadence, melt ½ cup of dark chocolate and drizzle it over the glazed oranges.
- Serve your Glazed Candied Oranges as a delightful dessert, snack, or luxurious garnish for cakes and pastries.
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