HOMEMADE ORANGE PEEL MARMALADE & CANDIED ORANGE PEELS
Transform your pantry with this dual recipe: tender, flavorful orange peel marmalade and sweet candied orange peels. The marmalade uses slow-cooked peels simmered in fresh orange juice syrup, while the peels themselves become delicious glazed treats perfect for snacking or garnishing desserts.
π Prep Time: 30 minutes + drying
π³ Cook Time: 1 hour (two 30-minute boils)
π― Yields: 1 jar marmalade (300 g), plus candied peel jar
Ingredients
- 4 large oranges
- 400 g granulated sugar
Instructions
- Peel the oranges into 4 to 6 large sections each. Carefully remove as much of the white pith as possible. Roll each peel section and secure with a toothpick.
- Place the orange peels in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Boil for 10 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water. Repeat this boil-and-rinse process 4 times total to soften peels and reduce bitterness.
- Weigh the prepared peels (mine weighed 400 g). Prepare a syrup by combining equal parts sugar and peel weight (400 g sugar) with freshly squeezed orange juice equal to half the peel weight (200 ml).
- Dissolve the sugar in the orange juice over medium heat, then add the peels. Simmer gently for 30 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool. Then, simmer again for another 30 minutes over low heat.
- Transfer as many peels as fit into a sterilized 300 g jar and cover with the syrup to create the marmalade.
- Arrange the remaining peels upright on a baking sheet lined with foil to drain excess syrup. Let dry for one day to form candied orange peels.
- Sprinkle dried peels lightly with sugar and store in a separate jar.
- Keep both jars refrigerated for freshness.
π‘ Tips
- Removing the bitter white pith thoroughly improves flavor and texture.
- Repeated boiling and rinsing soften peels and reduce bitterness.
- Candied orange peels make an elegant snack or dessert garnish.
- Store marmalade and peels separately in airtight jars for best shelf life.
π Perfect For
- Breakfast toast and pastries
- Garnishing cakes, cocktails, and desserts
- Homemade gifts and festive treats
π Final Thoughts
This homemade orange peel marmalade combines sweet, tender peels with bright citrus syrup for a refreshing preserve, while the candied peels offer a sweet, chewy delicacy. Together, they bring a versatile and elegant citrus flavor to your pantry year-round.