Winter’s chill can’t compare to the warmth of homemade candied orange peels in chocolate. This treat is not just a delight for your senses. It also takes you back to a time when life’s simple joys were all that mattered.
This guide will show you how to make your own chocolate-covered orange peels. It’s a treat that will make your taste buds happy. Whether you’re looking for a special gift or a way to pamper yourself, this recipe is perfect.
Table of contents
- Introduction to Chocolate-Covered Orange Peels
- Essential Ingredients and Equipment
- Orange Peels in Chocolate: Step-by-Step Process
- Making the Perfect Sugar Syrup
- Tips for Chocolate Coating Success
- Two Delicious Variations: Sugar-Coated vs. Chocolate-Dipped
- Storage and Preservation Methods
- Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations
- Creative Gift-Giving Ideas
- Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Conclusion
Introduction to Chocolate-Covered Orange Peels
Chocolate-covered orange peels are a sweet treat with a long history. They mix the natural sweetness of orange peel with dark chocolate’s richness. This mix of flavors has been loved for centuries.
History and Tradition of Candied Citrus
The art of candying citrus fruits, like orange peels, goes back to ancient times. It was a way to keep fruit fresh longer. Over time, candied orange peels became a favorite treat, enjoyed in desserts and as a digestif.
Why Make Your Own Chocolate Orange Treats
Making your own chocolate-covered orange peels at home is cost-effective and customizable. Store-bought versions can be pricey, but homemade treats are cheaper and tastier. You can try different chocolates and sweetness levels, making each treat unique.
The mix of chocolate and orange is loved worldwide. Making your own chocolate-covered orange peels lets you enjoy this classic flavor. Plus, you get the joy of creating something delicious yourself.
Essential Ingredients and Equipment
Making delicious chocolate-coated orange peels at home is easy. You just need a few ingredients and some basic kitchen tools. The main ingredients are large, juicy navel oranges, white sugar, and high-quality dark chocolate, like Ghirardelli 60% cacao.
You’ll also need a large saucepan for blanching and candying the orange peels. A mesh strainer is for draining, and a cooling rack is for cooling. You’ll also need a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper and a double boiler or heatproof bowl for melting the chocolate. You can also add flaky sea salt for extra flavor and a bit of vegetable oil to thin out the chocolate.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Navel Oranges | 3 large |
| White Sugar | 500g (1 lb) |
| Water | 1.5 cups |
| Dark Chocolate (60% cacao) | 250g (1/2 lb) |
| Vegetable Oil (optional) | 1/4 tsp |
| Flaky Sea Salt (optional) | As needed |
With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to make your own orange peels in chocolate. Next, we’ll go through the steps to make it.
Orange Peels in Chocolate: Step-by-Step Process
Discover the perfect mix of how to make candied orange peel and dark chocolate. This guide is easy to follow, no matter your baking level. You’ll make these tasty orange peels in chocolate with ease.
Selecting and Preparing the Oranges
Choose fresh, organic oranges first. Wash them well and cut off the top and bottom. Next, cut six slices from top to bottom. Peel each slice into thin strips.
Blanching Technique
To get rid of bitterness, blanch the peels. Boil a pot of water, then add the peels for 2 minutes. Do this three times, refreshing the water each time.
Candying Process
Make a sugar and water mixture in a saucepan. Heat it until the sugar melts. Add the blanched peels and cook for about 1 hour, stirring now and then, until they’re clear.
After the peels are candied, take them out of the syrup. Lay them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to dry. This can take 6 to 12 hours, depending on your kitchen’s humidity.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dark Chocolate | 100 grams |
| Organic Oranges | 3-4 |
| Granulated Sugar | 500 grams |
| Water | 500 ml |
Follow these steps to make delicious how to make candied orange peel. Enjoy them on their own or with rich orange peels in chocolate. Impress your loved ones with your homemade treats!
Making the Perfect Sugar Syrup
Creating delicious chocolate-coated orange peels or candied orange peels starts with the sugar syrup. It adds a sweet flavor and the right texture for dipping.
To make the syrup, mix equal parts sugar and water. For 100g of orange peel, use 200g sugar and 200ml water. Heat it gently, stirring now and then, until the sugar dissolves. Then, let it simmer for 2 hours until it hits 104°C (219°F).
The syrup’s thickness is key for the perfect coating. You want it to be about 75% sugar (75°Bx). This can be checked with a refractometer. This consistency helps the peels stay coated and keep their shape.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Orange Peels | 100g |
| Granulated Sugar | 200g |
| Water | 200ml |
The sugar syrup can be saved and used again. It’s a great way to make your treats even more special and cost-effective.
Tips for Chocolate Coating Success
To make your homemade chocolate-covered orange peels stand out, you need some skill. Tempering the chocolate and mastering coating techniques are crucial. These tips will help your candied citrus treats look amazing.
Tempering Dark Chocolate
Tempering dark chocolate is essential for a glossy finish. Melt it slowly in a double boiler, stirring often until it hits 115-120°F. Next, cool it down to 82-84°F, stirring constantly until it thickens and shines.
This method ensures the chocolate sets right, without any blemishes.
Coating Techniques
- Dip each dried orange peel strip into the tempered chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off for a clean, even coating.
- For a half-dipped look, submerge only the bottom half of the orange peel strip in the chocolate.
- Whole orange peel strips can also be coated, creating a luxurious chocolate-covered treat.
- Gently roll the chocolate-coated peels in a shallow dish of powdered sugar for a hazy, dusted appearance.
Adding Final Touches
Adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate-covered orange peels is a great idea. It contrasts the flavors and textures beautifully. The salt balances the sweetness of the citrus and the chocolate, making each bite perfect.
« The key to perfectly coated chocolate-covered orange peels is all in the tempering. Get that silky smooth chocolate right, and the rest will fall into place. »
Two Delicious Variations: Sugar-Coated vs. Chocolate-Dipped
Candied orange peels in chocolate are a delightful treat. They come in two tasty variations: sugar-coated or chocolate-dipped. Each one has its own special texture and flavor, pleasing different tastes.
Sugar-Coated Candied Orange Peels
The sugar-coated version is easy to make. Just toss the drained and candied orange peels in granulated sugar until they’re fully coated. This makes a crunchy, sweet outside that contrasts with the soft, chewy inside.
The sugar’s pure sweetness pairs well with the orange’s natural citrus. Together, they create a perfect flavor mix.
Chocolate-Dipped Candied Orange Peels
The chocolate-dipped version is a bit more indulgent. First, the peels dry for 3-4 hours. Then, they’re frozen briefly before being dipped in melted chocolate. This makes the chocolate coat smooth and glossy.
The chocolate’s richness balances the peels’ tangy sweetness. This creates a wonderful contrast in taste and texture.
Whether you like the classic sugar-coated or the rich chocolate-dipped, these candied orange peels are a treat. They satisfy your sweet tooth and citrus cravings.
« The combination of the candied orange peels and the chocolate is simply irresistible. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite! »
Storage and Preservation Methods
Keeping your homemade candied orange peels and chocolate treats fresh is key. Whether they’re sugar-coated or dipped in chocolate, simple storage tips can help. These tips will keep your treats tasty for a long time.
Freezer Storage Tips
For long-term storage, put chocolate-covered orange peels in the freezer. Place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once they’re frozen, move them to an airtight bag or container.
This keeps the chocolate from getting sticky or melting. Enjoy your frozen chocolate-covered orange peels for up to 6 months.
Room Temperature Storage
Sugar-coated candied orange peels can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container. This makes it easy to grab a treat whenever you want. They can last up to a year.
For even longer storage, refrigerate the sugar-coated peels. They can last up to 18 months in the fridge.
If you candied the peels in a sugar syrup, store them in the fridge for months. The syrup keeps them fresh and flavorful.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Frozen Chocolate-Covered Orange Peels | Up to 6 months |
| Room Temperature Sugar-Coated Candied Orange Peels | Up to 1 year |
| Refrigerated Sugar-Coated Candied Orange Peels | Up to 18 months |
| Refrigerated Syrup-Coated Candied Orange Peels | Up to 2 months |
By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your homemade how to make candied orange peel and chocolate-covered orange peels for months.
Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations
Enjoying homemade orange peels in chocolate or candied orange peel dipped in chocolate is a treat. Each candied orange peel has about 20 calories. This makes them a light snack. The recipe is also Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Dairy-Free, fitting many diets.
Dark chocolate in the recipe adds health perks. It’s full of antioxidants and good for the heart. The orange peel adds fiber and vitamins, boosting the treat’s nutritional value.
How much you eat is up to you. But, it’s hard to stop at just one. These treats are that good.
Dietary Considerations
For those on a low-residue diet, like those with Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, these peels might be okay. Cooked peels are easier to digest than raw oranges.
Still, talk to a doctor or dietitian before trying new foods. Everyone’s body is different.
These candied orange peel dipped in chocolate treats are a tasty and healthy choice. They offer a mix of sweetness, citrus, and health benefits.
Creative Gift-Giving Ideas
Homemade chocolate-dipped orange peels are a wonderful gift. They can be packaged in many ways to make unique presents. Try using small, decorative pouches or boxes to show off the chocolate and orange colors.
Packaging Suggestions
- Wrap the chocolate-dipped orange peels in cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon.
- Arrange the candied orange peel bites in a decorative tin or wooden box.
- Layer the homemade confections in a glass jar, topped with a personalized label or tag.
- Place the chocolate-covered orange peels in a small gift box, nestled among tissue paper or shredded packing material.
Seasonal Presentation Tips
Make your homemade candied orange peel treats special with holiday packaging. Use red and green for Christmas, or add snowflakes or holly leaves. They’re great in holiday gift baskets or as standalone presents.
Enjoy these treats during Slava Sv. Nikola (St. Nicholas) day. Pair them with other Serbian treats for a memorable gift.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Making homemade candied orange peels and chocolate treats can be fun, but it has its ups and downs. Here, we’ll look at some common problems and how to fix them. This way, your treats will always be perfect.
Bitterness and Pith Thickness
Bitterness in candied orange peels often comes from not blanching them enough. Blanch the peels in boiling water for a few minutes to get rid of bitterness. Also, make sure the pith is thin and even. This helps with cooking and texture.
Sugar Crystallization
Sugar crystals can form if the syrup isn’t cooked or cooled right. Watch the syrup’s temperature closely during candying. Let it cool down completely before coating the peels.
Chocolate Seizing
Water is the enemy when coating with chocolate. Make sure your peels are dry before dipping them in chocolate. This prevents the chocolate from getting thick and clumpy.
Thick Chocolate Coating
If your chocolate is too thick, add a bit of vegetable oil. This will thin it out and make it smooth for coating.
By tackling these common problems, you’ll make how to make candied orange peel and recipe for chocolate-coated orange peel that look great and taste amazing.
« The key to mastering homemade candied orange peels and chocolate-coated treats is attention to detail and a willingness to troubleshoot. By understanding and addressing these common challenges, you’ll be able to enjoy the sweet rewards of your efforts. »
Conclusion
Making your own chocolate-covered orange peels at home is incredibly rewarding. The citrus scent and the crunch of the peel in dark chocolate are amazing. This treat is a true delight for your senses.
These peels can be enjoyed on their own or add something special to drinks and desserts. They show how well classic flavors can come together.
These treats are loved everywhere, from traditional British sweets to fancy desserts in top restaurants. As more people want citrusy chocolates, making your own chocolate orange peels is a great way to enjoy them. You get the best of both worlds: comfort and exotic tastes, plus the health benefits of dark chocolate and oranges.
Start making your own chocolate-covered orange peels today. It’s a fun way to make a delicious treat that honors food history and brings people together. Whether you give them as gifts or enjoy them yourself, you’ll make unforgettable memories with every bite.