Candied orange slices have long been a delicious and indulgent treat, whether served as a snack, a topping for desserts, or simply enjoyed on their own. However, many traditional recipes call for large amounts of sugar, making them a less than ideal option for those who are health-conscious or looking to reduce their sugar intake. Fortunately, making sugar-free candied orange slices at home is easier than you might think—and it’s a healthier alternative that still delivers all the sweetness and flavor of the original treat.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of preparing these delightful orange slices without the need for refined sugars. This simple recipe not only gives you control over the sweetness, but it also provides a healthy and delicious option for snacking, baking, or gifting.
Ingredients:
- 2 organic oranges
- Water
- Natural sweetener (optional, e.g., maple syrup, agave syrup)
- Optional: cinnamon, cloves, vanilla for flavoring
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oranges:
Start by thoroughly washing your oranges under running water. This will help remove any dirt or pesticide residues, especially if you’re using non-organic oranges. It’s essential to use organic oranges in this recipe since the peel will be used, and you want to avoid any unwanted chemicals. After washing, set the oranges aside to dry before slicing.
2. Slice the Oranges:
Using a sharp knife, slice the oranges into thin rounds about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Try to ensure that the slices are as uniform as possible for even drying. After slicing, remove any seeds from the pieces to prevent them from affecting the texture. You can also choose to leave the peel on, as it adds flavor and texture to the final product, but you can opt to remove the peel if you prefer a more delicate version.
3. Blanch the Orange Slices:
Blanching the orange slices helps reduce their bitterness, especially from the peel. In a large pot, bring enough water to a boil to cover all the orange slices. Once the water reaches a boil, add the slices carefully and allow them to boil for about 5 minutes. This process will not only soften the peels but also help remove any unwanted bitterness.
4. Rinse and Repeat:
After the initial boil, drain the orange slices and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. To ensure the bitterness is fully removed, repeat the boiling and rinsing process two more times. This will soften the peel and sweeten the slices naturally without any added sugar.
5. Low-Temperature Baking:
Now it’s time to dry the orange slices and concentrate their flavors. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and arrange the slices in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Place the tray in a preheated oven at 90°C (194°F), and bake the slices for 2-3 hours. The low-temperature baking process will gently dry out the slices without burning them, resulting in perfectly candied orange slices that are tender but chewy.
During the baking process, check the slices every 30 minutes, flipping them over halfway through to ensure that they dry evenly. The goal is to slowly reduce the moisture in the slices while maintaining their natural shape and texture.
6. Flavoring (Optional):
If you want to take your candied orange slices to the next level, consider adding some aromatic spices to enhance their flavor. Lightly sprinkle cinnamon, ground cloves, or a few drops of vanilla extract on the slices before baking them. These flavorings pair beautifully with the citrusy sweetness of the oranges and add a fragrant, festive touch. You can experiment with different combinations to create your perfect flavored candied slices.
7. Storage:
Once the orange slices are completely dried and slightly cooled, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. These sugar-free candied orange slices can last for several weeks when stored properly at room temperature, making them a convenient and healthy treat that’s ready whenever you crave something sweet.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate them or even freeze them for up to 3 months. To prevent them from sticking together, place a layer of parchment paper between the slices before storing them in a container.
Additional Notes:
- Sweeteners: While the recipe doesn’t require any sugar, you can add a touch of sweetness by using a natural sweetener like maple syrup, agave syrup, or even stevia. However, be sure to use them sparingly, as the natural sweetness of the oranges will be the star of the show. If you do choose to add a sweetener, drizzle a small amount over the slices before baking or soak the slices briefly in a sweetener solution before drying.
- Other Citrus Fruits: This recipe can easily be adapted to make other candied fruits, such as lemons, grapefruits, or limes. You can adjust the sweetness and flavorings to suit each fruit, giving you a variety of healthy and delicious options.
Creative Uses for Candied Orange Slices:
Candied orange slices aren’t just a delicious snack—they can be incorporated into a wide variety of dishes and creative projects. Here are some ways to use them:
- As a Snack: Enjoy these sweet, tangy slices on their own as a natural snack. They’re light, satisfying, and perfect for when you need a sweet bite without the added sugar.
- In Desserts: Candied orange slices make a beautiful garnish for cakes, cupcakes, tarts, and pies. They also pair wonderfully with chocolate for an elegant touch. Try placing them on top of a rich chocolate mousse or a slice of vegan cheesecake for an eye-catching and flavorful addition.
- In Beverages: Use candied orange slices to garnish your favorite hot or cold beverages. They can elevate a cup of tea, coffee, or even cocktails. In particular, they make a lovely garnish for holiday-themed drinks or sparkling beverages like prosecco or champagne.
- In Salads: For a unique twist, add candied orange slices to fruit salads, green salads, or quinoa bowls. They provide a sweet contrast to the other ingredients and add a touch of elegance to the dish.
- As a Gift: Candied orange slices make a thoughtful and homemade gift. Package them in a decorative jar, tied with a ribbon, and give them as a gift during the holidays, birthdays, or other special occasions. Their vibrant color and sweet fragrance make them an attractive gift idea.
Why Choose Sugar-Free Candied Orange Slices?
Opting for sugar-free candied orange slices offers numerous benefits, particularly for those looking to reduce their sugar intake while still satisfying their sweet tooth. Here are some reasons to try this healthy treat:
- Reduced Sugar Intake: By making your own candied orange slices and eliminating added sugar, you can still enjoy the natural sweetness of the fruit without overloading your body with refined sugars. This is especially important for people who are managing conditions like diabetes, or simply want to cut back on their sugar consumption for health reasons.
- Healthier Option: Unlike commercially available candied fruits that are often loaded with refined sugars and preservatives, homemade sugar-free candied orange slices retain the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in the orange peel and pulp. These nutrients contribute to your overall health and wellness, supporting immune function and providing a natural source of fiber.
- Control Over Ingredients: Making your own candied orange slices gives you complete control over the ingredients. You can choose organic oranges and add natural sweeteners, allowing you to avoid harmful additives and preservatives commonly found in store-bought treats.
- Versatility: This simple recipe can be modified in countless ways to suit your personal preferences. You can adjust the flavor profile by experimenting with different sweeteners, spices, or citrus fruits. The possibilities are endless!
Final Thoughts:
Sugar-free candied orange slices are a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional candied fruits. By following this simple and natural recipe, you can enjoy a sweet treat without the excess sugar. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, use them in recipes, or give them as gifts, these homemade candied orange slices are sure to delight.
Try experimenting with different citrus fruits or flavorings to create your own personalized variations, and enjoy the natural sweetness of oranges without any added sugar. Happy cooking!
