Irresistible Candied Orange Slices 

These bright, chewy candied orange slices are a radiant blend of sweet zesty flavor and nostalgic charm. Infused gently with syrup and simmered until tender, they transform into stunning edible garnishes or standalone snacks. Perfect for dressing up cakes, cocktails, or cheese boards, these vegan and gluten-free treats take just about 20 minutes of active prep time and yield around 12 beautiful slices. With minimal ingredients—just oranges, sugar, water, and a hint of vanilla—they’re easy, budget-friendly, and full of summery spring sunshine.

Ingredients

• 4 large oranges, sliced into rounds (about ¼-inch thick)

• 2 cups granulated sugar
  
  

• 2 cups water
  
  

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for aroma)
  
  

Directions

1. Prepare an ice bath (water + ice) and line a cooling rack over parchment.
   
   

2. Bring a pot of water to boil. Add orange slices and boil for 2 minutes; then transfer immediately to the ice bath to stop cooking.
   
   

3. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar and water. Stir once to dissolve, then bring to a boil without further stirring.
   
   

4. Cook the syrup until it reaches about 225 °F (107 °C), then gently add the orange slices. Continue simmering until syrup reaches 245 °F (118 °C) and the slices become translucent.
   
   

5. Using tongs, fork, or tweezers, remove each slice and place in a single layer on the cooling rack. Let them cool and dry for about 2 hours.

6. Optionally, dip cooled slices halfway into melted chocolate and let set for an elegant twist. 

Nutrients

(Per slice; estimates based on typical orange & sugar content)

• Calories: ~175 kcal total per serving of multiple slices (or ~15 – 18 kcal per slice)
  
  

• Carbohydrates: ~44–45 g sugar (virtually all from syrup)

• Protein: ~1 g
  
  

• Fat: ~0.2 g or less
  
  

• Sodium: ~5 mg
  
  

• Fiber: ~2 g
  
  

• Vitamin C: ~35 mg (retained from fresh citrus)