Introduction

Discover the magic of making Crispy Candied Orange Slices in the Air Fryer with this simple 5-ingredient recipe. This easy treat transforms fresh oranges into a sweet, chewy, and slightly crispy snack or garnish in minutes. For another vibrant citrus dish, try this Avocado Grapefruit and Fennel Salad Recipe. Perfect for holiday platters, dessert toppings, or a healthy sweet bite.

Ingredients

These simple ingredients transform into a sweet, chewy, and slightly caramelized treat with a vibrant citrus aroma.

• 2 large oranges (navel or Cara Cara work well)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a deeper flavor)
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Cooking spray or a light brushing of neutral oil

Timing

Prep Time	5 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	20 minutes

Context: This air fryer method is about 20% faster than typical oven recipes for candied orange slices.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Oranges

Wash and dry 2–3 medium navel oranges thoroughly. Slice them into uniform ¼-inch rounds, removing any seeds you encounter. This consistent thickness is key for even cooking and perfect Air Fryer Orange Slices Candied.

Step 2 — Create the Syrup

In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. For a deeper flavor, you can substitute a tablespoon of the sugar with brown sugar. This simple syrup will coat the slices and create that signature candied crust.

Step 3 — Coat the Slices

Lightly spray or brush both sides of each orange slice with a neutral oil like avocado or canola. Dredge each slice in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even, generous coating on all surfaces.

Tip: Work in batches and place the coated slices on a wire rack. This allows any excess syrup to drip off and prevents sogginess.

Step 4 — Preheat and Arrange

Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (163°C). Arrange the coated orange slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch or overlap. You will likely need to cook in batches for the best results.

Step 5 — Air Fry to Perfection

Cook the Air Fryer Orange Slices Candied for 10–12 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, pause the air fryer and carefully flip each slice with tongs. This promotes even caramelization on both sides.

Doneness Cue: The slices are ready when the edges are slightly darkened and caramelized, and the sugar coating has formed a crisp, glassy shell.

Step 6 — Cool Completely

Transfer the hot candied orange slices to a parchment-lined plate or wire rack. Let them cool completely for at least 15–20 minutes. As they cool, the sugary coating will fully harden into a delightful, crunchy candy texture.

Step 7 — Serve and Store

Once completely cool, your Air Fryer Orange Slices Candied are ready to enjoy! Serve them as a snack, dessert garnish, or with yogurt. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain crispness.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~80 kcal
Protein	~1 g
Carbohydrates	~20 g
Fat	~0 g
Fiber	~2 g
Sodium	~1 mg
Vitamin C	~70% DV

Note: Nutritional values for these Air Fryer Orange Slices Candied are estimates based on typical ingredients and a standard serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Protein Boost — Sprinkle with vanilla or chocolate protein powder after cooking for a post-workout snack.
• Lower-Carb Option — Use a monk fruit or allulose sweetener blend instead of sugar to reduce carbs.
• Dairy-Free — This recipe is naturally dairy-free; ensure your cooking spray is oil-based, not butter-flavored.
• Gluten-Free — These Air Fryer Orange Slices Candied are inherently gluten-free, as they contain no flour or grains.
• Low-Sodium — Omit any added salt in the sugar coating; the orange flavor is vibrant enough on its own.
• Citrus Swap — Try grapefruit or blood orange slices for a different tartness and color profile.
• Spice Variation — Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the sugar for a sweet and spicy kick.
• Oil-Free — Use parchment paper designed for air fryers instead of spraying to completely avoid oil.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a simple, elegant dessert.
• Use as a beautiful garnish for cocktails, mocktails, or a warm cup of tea.
• Chop and fold into muffin or pancake batter for a burst of citrus flavor.
• Serve alongside a cheese board; the sweet-tart candied orange slices complement sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or creamy brie perfectly.
• Layer them in a jar with granola and yogurt for a stunning breakfast parfait.
• Crumble over a fresh green salad with goat cheese and a light vinaigrette for a gourmet touch.

For plating, arrange the warm Air Fryer Orange Slices Candied in a spiral or fan shape on a white plate to make their glossy color pop. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of dark chocolate adds a final touch of decadence. These slices are perfect for holiday gatherings, brunch, or as a thoughtful homemade food gift.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using thick orange slices, which leads to a chewy, undercooked center. Fix: Slice oranges uniformly to ¼-inch thickness for even, thorough candying.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the air fryer basket, causing steam instead of crispness. Fix: Arrange slices in a single layer with space between them for optimal air circulation.
• Mistake: Skipping the pat-dry step, leaving excess moisture that prevents proper caramelization. Fix: Thoroughly blot orange slices with a paper towel before applying any sugar or oil.
• Mistake: Applying sugar too early, causing it to burn before the slices dehydrate. Fix: Air fry plain slices for a few minutes first, then coat with sugar for the remaining cook time.
• Mistake: Setting the temperature too high, which scorches the natural sugars. Fix: Use a moderate 300°F to 320°F to gently dry and candy the fruit without burning.
• Mistake: Not flipping the slices halfway through, resulting in uneven texture. Fix: Gently flip each slice at the halfway mark to ensure both sides caramelize perfectly.
• Mistake: Using a wire rack that allows small slices to fall through. Fix: Use a solid parchment liner or a fine-mesh basket designed for air fryers.
• Mistake: Removing slices immediately; they will be soft and sticky. Fix: Let them cool completely in the air fryer basket to crisp up as they dry.
• Mistake: Storing warm candied orange slices, which creates condensation and sogginess. Fix: Cool slices fully before storing in an airtight container at room temperature.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store cooled candied orange slices in a single layer in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper. They will keep for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: To restore crispness, reheat the slices in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes until warm. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F for food safety if adding to a warm dish.

Properly storing your Air Fryer Orange Slices Candied ensures you can enjoy their sweet, citrusy flavor as a snack or garnish anytime.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Orange Slices Candied are a wonderfully simple and versatile treat. We hope you enjoy making them and exploring all seven delicious variations. For more citrusy inspiration, try our Irresistible Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe or Orange Loaf Cake Recipe. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your favorite way to enjoy them!

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FAQs

Can I use other citrus fruits for this recipe?

Yes, you can use lemons, limes, or grapefruit. Adjust the cooking time slightly as thickness varies. The method for making Air Fryer Orange Slices Candied works well with most citrus.

How do I store the candied orange slices?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator where they will stay good for several weeks.

Why are my orange slices not getting crispy?

Ensure your orange slices are patted very dry and sliced thinly, about 1/8-inch thick. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as proper air circulation is key for crisping your Air Fryer Orange Slices Candied.