Go Back

Candied Orange Peels with Honey (Paleo)

Enjoy the bright, citrusy sweetness of candied orange peels, naturally sweetened with honey, perfect as a treat or a thoughtful gift.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Paleo
Calories: 70
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 large large organic oranges Use the peels; organic is best to avoid pesticides.
  • 1 cup raw honey Acts as both sweetener and glaze; choose a mild-flavored honey for delicate citrus notes.
  • 1 cup water To simmer the peels and make the syrup.
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt Balances sweetness and enhances orange aromas.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Optional; warms flavor and deepens the glaze.
  • 1/3 cup coconut sugar or extra honey Optional for dusting if you prefer a sugared finish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Wash and peel the oranges, using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to remove the zest in long strips, avoiding the bitter white pith.
  2. Blanch the peels by placing them in a saucepan, covering with cold water, bringing to a boil, then draining. Repeat this blanching two more times.
Cooking
  1. Make the honey syrup by combining 1 cup water and 1 cup honey in the same saucepan. Add the blanched peels and a pinch of sea salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat.
  2. Simmer gently for 25-30 minutes until the peels become translucent and the syrup thickens slightly.
  3. Optional: Stir in vanilla extract in the last few minutes of cooking. Remove from heat and let the peels sit in the syrup for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Drain the peels onto a wire rack set over parchment to catch drips and let them dry for a few hours or overnight.
  5. If desired, toss with coconut sugar while still slightly tacky for a sugared finish.
Serving
  1. Store in an airtight container layered with parchment to keep them from sticking.

Notes

For less sweetness, dust with finely chopped toasted nuts instead of sugar. Add a small cinnamon stick to the simmering syrup for a hint of spice.