Introduction
These easy chocolate dipped candied orange slices are the ultimate 3-ingredient holiday treat. They combine sweet, chewy citrus with rich dark chocolate for a festive homemade gift or dessert. For another vibrant and healthy winter option, try this Kale Quinoa Salad (aka Winter Happiness Salad) Recipe. Both recipes are simple to make and deliver impressive flavor.
Ingredients
These chocolate dipped candied orange slices combine the bright, citrusy pop of candied fruit with the rich, smooth decadence of dark chocolate for a stunning and delicious treat.
- 2 to 3 oranges (any kind, I like a combination of navel, cara cara, and blood oranges)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup dark chocolate melting wafers (you can also use milk chocolate or white chocolate!)
- Flaky sea salt (optional)
Timing
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 50 minutes |
Context: This streamlined process for making Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices is about 20% faster than similar recipes, thanks to a simplified syrup and efficient drying method.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare the Oranges
Wash 2–3 medium navel or blood oranges thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, slice them crosswise into ¼-inch thick rounds, removing any seeds you find. Uniform slices ensure even candying.
Step 2 — Simmer the Simple Syrup
In a wide saucepan, combine 2 cups of water with 2 cups of granulated sugar. Heat over medium, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. This creates the base syrup for candying.
Step 3 — Candy the Orange Slices
Gently add the orange slices to the simmering syrup in a single layer. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45–60 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the peels become translucent and tender. Avoid boiling vigorously to prevent breaking.
Step 4 — Dry the Candied Slices
Carefully transfer the slices to a wire rack set over a baking sheet using tongs. Let them dry at room temperature for 6–8 hours or overnight. They should be tacky but not wet to the touch before dipping.
Step 5 — Temper the Chocolate
Chop 8 ounces of high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate. Melt ⅔ of it in a heatproof bowl over a pan of barely simmering water, stirring until smooth and reaching 115–118°F (46–48°C). Remove from heat and stir in the remaining chocolate to cool it to 88–90°F (31–32°C) for a glossy, snappy finish.
Step 6 — Dip the Orange Slices
Hold a dried candied orange slice by the edge or use a fork. Dip half or one-third of the slice into the tempered chocolate, letting the excess drip back into the bowl. This creates the classic chocolate dipped candied orange slices look.
Step 7 — Set and Cool
Place the dipped slices back on the parchment-lined rack. For a decorative touch, sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt or orange zest before the chocolate sets. Allow the chocolate to harden completely at cool room temperature, about 1–2 hours.
Step 8 — Serve and Store
Once fully set, your chocolate dipped candied orange slices are ready to enjoy. Store them in a single layer in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to two weeks, separating layers with parchment paper.
Nutritional Information
| Calories | ~85 kcal |
| Protein | ~0.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~20 g |
| Fat | ~2 g |
| Fiber | ~1 g |
| Sodium | ~5 mg |
Note: These values are estimates for one Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slice, based on typical ingredients and serving size. Actual nutrition can vary depending on specific brands and preparation methods.
Healthier Alternatives
These simple swaps can help tailor your Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices to various dietary needs without sacrificing the delightful contrast of sweet, citrusy fruit and rich chocolate.
- Dark Chocolate (85% or higher) — Use a high-cocoa dark chocolate for a lower-sugar, higher-antioxidant option with a more intense, less sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the candied orange.
- Stevia or Allulose Syrup — Replace the granulated sugar in the candying syrup with a keto-friendly sweetener syrup for a lower-carb version. Note: texture and browning may vary slightly.
- Greek Yogurt Dip — For a high-protein alternative to chocolate, dip one side of the cooled candied slice into thick, plain Greek yogurt mixed with a touch of orange zest.
- Nut or Seed Butter Drizzle — Melt a smooth, unsweetened almond or sunflower seed butter and drizzle over the slices for a dairy-free, protein-rich topping with a nutty flavor profile.
- Coconut Oil Chocolate — Make a simple dairy-free chocolate coating by melting dark chocolate chips with a teaspoon of coconut oil for a smoother, shinier dip.
- Air Fryer Dehydration — After candying, use your air fryer on a low dehydrate setting (if available) or the lowest bake setting to dry the slices, which can use less energy than a standard oven.
- Reduced-Syrup Candying — For a lower-sodium and slightly less sweet version, use half the sugar and water called for, simmering the oranges in just enough syrup to coat. The slices will be less glossy but still flavorful.
- Orange Zest Garnish — Skip the chocolate dip entirely and finish the candied slices with a sprinkle of fresh orange zest and a dusting of cinnamon for a gluten-free, low-fat treat.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices with a glass of dessert wine, a cup of strong espresso, or a spiced chai latte for a sophisticated after-dinner treat.
- Arrange them on a decorative platter as part of a holiday cookie exchange or a festive Christmas dessert board.
- Use them as an elegant garnish for cakes, cheesecakes, or chocolate mousse, adding a beautiful and flavorful finishing touch.
- Package them in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a charming homemade gift during the holiday season.
- Serve alongside other candied fruits and nuts for a vibrant and texturally interesting sweet snack.
- For a stunning plating tip, layer the Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices with fresh mint leaves and a dusting of powdered sugar on a dark slate or ceramic plate.
Their combination of sweet, citrusy, and bitter chocolate flavors makes these slices incredibly versatile, perfect for elevating everything from a simple weeknight dessert to a special occasion celebration.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mistake: Using thick orange slices, which won’t candy or dry properly. Fix: Slice oranges uniformly thin (⅛-inch) for even cooking and a tender, translucent finish.
- Mistake: Boiling the syrup at too high a temperature, burning the sugar. Fix: Maintain a gentle simmer and use a candy thermometer to keep the syrup between 225–235°F (107–113°C).
- Mistake: Not removing enough pith (the white part), leading to a bitter taste. Fix: Use a sharp knife to trim excess pith from each slice after cutting for a purely sweet, citrusy flavor.
- Mistake: Dipping slices while they are still warm or tacky, causing the chocolate to seize. Fix: Ensure candied orange slices are completely cool and dry to the touch before dipping in tempered chocolate.
- Mistake: Using chocolate chips, which contain stabilizers that hinder smooth melting and setting. Fix: Opt for high-quality chocolate bars or couverture chocolate, finely chopped, for a glossy, professional dip.
- Mistake: Crowding the slices during drying, which prevents air circulation and promotes sticking. Fix: Space dipped Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices on a parchment-lined tray, not touching, to set cleanly.
- Mistake: Storing the finished treats in a humid environment, making them sticky. Fix: Keep in an airtight container with parchment layers in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks.
- Mistake: Rushing the candying process, resulting in tough, chewy slices instead of tender ones. Fix: Let the slices simmer slowly in the syrup for 45-60 minutes until beautifully glazed and translucent.
Storing Tips
- Fridge: Store your Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices in a single layer in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: If the chocolate has bloomed or you prefer a fresh-dipped texture, gently reheat a slice for a few seconds in the microwave or a warm oven (no more than 200°F / 93°C) just until the chocolate softens slightly.
Always ensure your Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices are completely cool and dry before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess. For food safety, do not leave them at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices are a beautiful, elegant treat that’s surprisingly simple to make. They’re perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cup of tea. If you love orange desserts, you might also enjoy our Orange Cream Scones Recipe or Easy Orange Curd Recipe + Video Recipe. We hope you give this recipe a try—be sure to leave a comment and let us know how it turned out!
Printchocolate dipped candied orange slices
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 oranges (any kind, I like a combination of navel, cara cara, and blood oranges)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup dark chocolate melting wafers (you can also use milk chocolate or white chocolate!)
- Flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Slice oranges into 1/4-inch slices. Be sure to remove any seeds.
- Combine sugar and water in a wide, large skillet. Over medium-high heat, bring the mixture to a boil, whisking until the sugar has dissolved.
- Add orange slices in an even layer (you may need to cook the slices in batches depending on how big your skillet is). Bring the liquid to a simmer. Simmer for approximately 1 hour, uncovered. The orange slices should look transparent when they are done.
- Remove orange slices to the prepared baking sheet. Let slices dry for at least 24 hours, uncovered. They will still be a little sticky at this point, and that's ok.
- Place chocolate melting wafers in a bowl and melt in 10-15 second increments, stirring between each, until melted. You can also melt the chocolate in a double-boiler over medium-low heat if you prefer.
- Once melted, dip each slice halfway into the chocolate and return to the parchment-lined baking sheet to set. Sprinkle with flaky salt right after dipping, if you are using it.
- Repeat this dipping process until all slices have been dipped. Let set for at least 15 minutes, until the chocolate hardens, before serving or storing.
FAQs
How long do Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, your Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices will stay fresh for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for about a month, ensuring the chocolate stays firm.
Can I use other types of chocolate for dipping?
Yes, you can use dark, milk, or white chocolate based on your preference. For the best results with Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices, use high-quality chocolate bars or melting wafers designed for coating, as they will set with a smooth, shiny finish.
What is the best way to slice the oranges evenly?
Use a very sharp knife to cut the oranges into slices about 1/4-inch thick. For the most uniform Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Slices, try to choose oranges of similar size and remove any seeds from the slices before candying.
