Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

Introduction to Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

As a passionate home cook, I know how chaotic life can get. Between juggling work, family, and everything in between, it’s easy to lose sight of those little moments of joy. That’s where this delightful recipe for Candied Orange Peel Chocolate comes in! It’s a sweet treat that combines rich, dark chocolate with bright, zesty orange peels. Not only is it simple to make, but it also transforms your kitchen into a haven of enticing aromas, leaving your loved ones eagerly awaiting a taste. Trust me, this recipe is the perfect little escape in your busy day!

Why You’ll Love This Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

There’s a certain magic in creating treats that delight the senses, and this Candied Orange Peel Chocolate does just that! It’s surprisingly easy to whip up, taking only about an hour from start to finish. The harmonious blend of the sweet, citrusy peels and the deep, rich chocolate will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress guests or indulge a sweet craving—all without breaking a sweat!

Ingredients for Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

This enchanting recipe for Candied Orange Peel Chocolate calls for just a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a delightful treat.

• Organic Oranges: You’ll need four large organic oranges. Organic is key here since you’ll be using the skins. They’re free of harmful pesticides and burst with flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Two cups will help you create a luscious syrup that transforms the orange peels into sweet candy. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap out some sugar for agave or honey.
• Water: You’ll need one cup to dissolve the sugar and make the syrup. It acts as a canvas for that sweet-shiny finish.
• High-Quality Dark Chocolate: Seven ounces of dark chocolate, with at least 70% cocoa, will create that decadent dip. A good chocolate makes all the difference—look for brands you love!
• Extra Granulated Sugar (optional): This is for tossing your dried candied peels to create a sparkling finish. It’s purely for aesthetics but adds to the delightful crunch.

For exact quantities, you can refer to the bottom of the article, where they’re conveniently available for printing. Let’s get ready to enjoy this lovely culinary adventure!

How to Make Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the fun part! Making Candied Orange Peel Chocolate is a simple yet satisfying process. Each step brings you closer to that delightful, sweet treat. Let’s get started!

Preparing the Oranges

First things first, we need to prepare our oranges.

Wash and dry the oranges thoroughly. This step is crucial because we want all the dirt removed before we start to use the peels. Score the peel into quarters, being careful not to cut too deep. Gently peel them off while trying to preserve as much of the white pith as possible. The pith adds a nice balance to the sweetness later on. Once you have your peels, slice them lengthwise into 1/4-inch wide strips. Simple, right?

Blanching the Peels

This step takes the bitterness out, ensuring our candied peels are sweet and luscious.

Take the strips of orange peel and place them in a saucepan. Cover them with cold water and bring it to a boil. After boiling, drain the water completely. Repeat this blanching process two more times. Each time, you’ll notice the peels getting softer and the bitterness fading away. It’s like a little transformation right in front of your eyes!

Making the Sugar Syrup

Now, let’s make a syrup that will turn those peels into candy magic.

In a clean saucepan, combine two cups of granulated sugar and one cup of water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves completely. This syrup is what will coat and sweeten our beautiful peels. Just imagine that rich sweetness filling the kitchen!

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Time to combine our blanched peels with the syrup!

Carefully add your blanched orange peels into the syrup. Let them simmer gently over low heat for 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll want to stir occasionally, but be careful not to let the syrup caramelize. During this time, they will become translucent and tender, soaking up all that sugary goodness.

Drying the Candied Peels

After candying, we need to dry those lovely peels.

Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the candied peels to a wire rack set over parchment paper. Allow them to dry for at least an hour until they’re no longer sticky to the touch. This step is essential for that perfect texture in your Candied Orange Peel Chocolate. Some folks even love to toss them in extra sugar for a sparkling finish, which is a lovely touch!

Dipping in Chocolate

This is where the real magic happens—dipping those peels in chocolate!

For this step, place your high-quality dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of barely simmering water. We’re using the double boiler method here. Stir the chocolate until it’s completely smooth and melted. Now, dip each candied peel halfway into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off. They’ll look absolutely divine as you place them on parchment paper to set. Just a quick 30 minutes at room temperature or 10 minutes in the fridge, and they’ll be good to go!

Storing the Final Treats

Finally, let’s talk storage.

Once your chocolate has set completely, transfer your beautiful treats to an airtight container. These delightful little bites can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks. Although, I doubt they’ll last that long with how delicious they are!

And there you have it—a scrumptious taste of homemade Candied Orange Peel Chocolate that’s not only beautiful but absolutely bursting with flavor. Enjoy your creation!

Tips for Success

• Use organic oranges for the best flavor and to avoid pesticides.
• Adjust the sugar coating based on your sweetness preference.
• Ensure your chocolate is fully melted for a smooth coating.
• Keep an eye on the syrup while candying to prevent caramelization.
• Let the peels cool completely before storing to maintain freshness.

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan: Use this for boiling and candying the peels. A large pot can work too.
• Heatproof bowl: Ideal for melting chocolate; a metal or glass bowl over simmering water works well.
• Wire rack: Helps the candied peels dry properly; a cooling rack can substitute nicely.
• Parchment paper: Used to catch drips from the chocolate and for easy cleanup.
• Tongs or slotted spoon: Perfect for transferring peels; regular kitchen utensils will do in a pinch.

Variations on Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

• Spiced Orange Peel: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the sugar syrup for a warm, aromatic twist that brings winter to your candying process.
• Dark and Milk Chocolate Duo: Half-dip some peels in dark chocolate and the other half in creamy milk chocolate for a delightful mix of flavors that can satisfy any chocolate lover.
• Nutty Crunch: After dipping in chocolate, sprinkle crushed nuts like pistachios or almonds on the chocolate before it sets for an added crunch.
• Coconut Coating: Roll the chocolate-dipped peels in shredded unsweetened coconut after dipping for a tropical flair that complements the citrus perfectly.
• Vegan Chocolate Option: Use dairy-free chocolate for a vegan-friendly treat that everyone can enjoy. Just check the label to ensure it meets your dietary needs!
• Fruit Infusion: Explore with other citrus fruits, like lemon or grapefruit peels, for different flavor profiles that can brighten up the recipe.

Serving Suggestions for Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

• Tea Time Treat: Pair these delightful bites with a cup of aromatic herbal tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Elegant Dessert Platter: Arrange on a beautiful platter alongside cheese and nuts for an impressive dessert display.
• Gift Idea: Package in a decorative box for a thoughtful homemade gift on special occasions.
• Sweet Finishing Touch: Use as a garnish on cakes or desserts to add an elegant flair.

FAQs about Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

Are you curious about making Candied Orange Peel Chocolate? Here are some common questions that pop up when tackling this delightful treat:

Can I use other types of citrus?

Absolutely! While this recipe highlights oranges, feel free to experiment with lemons, grapefruits, or even limes. Each citrus brings its own unique flavor profile to the table.

How do I store the candied peels?

Keep your candied orange peel chocolate in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last up to two weeks, but trust me, they’ll be gone much sooner!

What can I do if the chocolate hardens too quickly?

If your chocolate cools too fast, simply return it to the double boiler for a gentle reheating. This will make it easy to dip those beautiful peels again!

Can I make this recipe in advance?

You bet! These treats are perfect for making ahead of time, especially if you’re prepping for a party or gathering. Just store them properly, and they’ll be ready to impress!

How can I make the candied orange peel less sweet?

To tone down the sweetness, consider reducing the amount of sugar in the syrup. You could also skip the optional sugar coating for a less sugary finish. Balance is key!

Final Thoughts on Candied Orange Peel Chocolate

Making Candied Orange Peel Chocolate is more than just a delicious endeavor; it’s a journey filled with sweet aromas and cheerful moments in the kitchen. Each bite captures the essence of love and care, creating not just a treat but a sparkle in the eyes of family and friends. The joy of sharing these beautiful chocolates, whether at a cozy gathering or a simple afternoon snack, is what makes the effort worthwhile. I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it has in my home, brightening your days with a touch of sweet citrus magic!

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