Imagine biting into a luscious piece of Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel, where the vibrant zest of sun-kissed oranges meets the silky embrace of dark chocolate, creating a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. The satisfying crunch of the candied peel gives way to a burst of citrusy brightness, while the decadent chocolate wraps everything in a luxurious hug, making it a perfect treat to indulge in after a long day or to impress guests at your next gathering.
This delightful combination evokes memories of sunny afternoons spent in grandma’s kitchen, where the air was filled with laughter and sweet aromas. Picture yourself savoring these treats during festive celebrations or cozy movie nights, each bite bringing joy and nostalgia that warms the heart. Whether you’re snacking solo or sharing them as thoughtful gifts, Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel promises an unforgettable flavor journey that will leave everyone craving more.
Why Will You Keep Making Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel?
Delightful flavor: The zesty brightness of orange peel perfectly complements the rich taste of dark chocolate, creating a unique taste sensation.
Simple process: With just 30 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, this recipe is quick and easy to whip up.
Versatile treat: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or elegant gift—these treats are sure to impress!
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves the combination of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a hit at gatherings.
Healthier twist: Made from fresh oranges, this treat offers a fruity alternative to traditional candies.
Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel Ingredients
For the Orange Peel
- 2 large oranges (zested and peeled) – Fresh oranges add a vibrant zing that brightens up the candying process.
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for candying) – This is essential for creating that sweet, chewy texture in your orange peels.
- 1 cup water (for candying) – Helps dissolve the sugar and ensures even cooking of the orange peels.
For the Chocolate Coating
- 8 ounces dark chocolate (chopped or chips) – Use high-quality chocolate for a rich, decadent finish on your Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel.
Step-by-Step Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel
1. Remove the peel: Carefully zest and peel the 2 large oranges, making sure to leave some of the white pith intact. Cut the peel into delightful strips that will shine in the candying process.
2. Prepare the syrup: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar completely dissolves into a beautiful syrup.
3. Simmer the peels: Add your orange peel strips to the syrup and reduce the heat. Let them simmer for about 30 minutes, until they turn translucent and soak up all that sugary goodness.
4. Cool the peels: Once they’re perfectly candied, remove the peels from the syrup and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow them to cool completely, letting their vibrant color shine through.
For the Chocolate Coating:
5. Melt the chocolate: In a double boiler over simmering water, melt 8 ounces of dark chocolate (chopped or chips) while stirring continuously until it reaches a smooth, glossy texture.
6. Dip each piece: Take each candied orange peel and dip it into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. This creates a luscious layer that complements the orange flavor beautifully.
7. Set to harden: Place your chocolate-dipped peels back onto the parchment paper. Let them sit at room temperature until the chocolate has hardened completely—this usually takes just a few minutes!
Optional: Drizzle extra melted chocolate over for an elegant touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips
- Pith Precision: Leave a thin layer of white pith on the peel for better flavor; too much can make it bitter.
- Perfect Syrup: Ensure your sugar syrup is boiling before adding the orange peels to help them candy evenly and thoroughly.
- Simmer Smartly: Don’t rush the simmering process; 30 minutes is key for achieving that beautiful translucent look in your orange peels.
- Chocolate Melting: Use a double boiler for melting chocolate to prevent burning; keep the water at a gentle simmer, not boiling.
- Drip Dry: Allow excess chocolate to drip off completely before placing the peels on parchment, ensuring a smooth finish and avoiding sticky clumps.
- Setting Time: Be patient while the chocolate hardens; refrigerating can speed this up, but be careful not to create condensation. Enjoy your delightful Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel
- Room Temperature: Store your chocolate dipped orange peel in an airtight container for up to 3 days, away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.
- Fridge: For longer storage, keep the chocolate dipped orange peel in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Ensure it’s in an airtight container to prevent moisture.
- Freezer: You can freeze the chocolate dipped orange peel for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before indulging.
Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel Your Way
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful treat to suit your taste!
- Candied Grapefruit: Swap out oranges for grapefruits for a unique, slightly bitter twist that mingles beautifully with chocolate. The grapefruit’s brightness will elevate the flavor profile, making it an exciting alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the sugar while candying for a surprising heat. This fiery element pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the chocolate and citrus.
- Herbal Infusion: Experiment with infusing the water with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before candying the peels. The gentle herbal notes will add complexity, transforming your treat into something truly special.
- Citrus Medley: Mix in lemon or lime peels along with the orange peels for a vibrant citrus combination. This medley will create a more dynamic flavor experience that’s sure to impress.
- Nutty Crunch: Before dipping in chocolate, sprinkle toasted nuts (like almonds or pistachios) over the candied peels. This added texture will provide a satisfying crunch that complements the chewy sweetness.
- Orange Zest Boost: Enhance the orange flavor by adding extra zest to the chocolate coating. This simple addition intensifies the citrusy aroma and gives every bite an extra zing.
- White Chocolate Bliss: Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate for a sweeter taste that beautifully contrasts with the tangy peel. This version offers a creamy finish that appeals to those who prefer milder flavors.
Make Ahead Options
If you’re looking to streamline your baking process, this Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can candy the orange peels up to 3 days in advance. Simply remove the peel from the oranges, ensuring to leave some white pith, and cut them into strips. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water, then bring to a boil until the sugar dissolves. Add the orange peel strips and simmer for about 30 minutes until they’re translucent. Once cooled on a parchment-lined baking sheet, you can melt 8 ounces of dark chocolate in a double boiler when you’re ready to dip. To maintain quality, store the candied peels in an airtight container in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, simply dip each peel into the melted chocolate and let them set until hardened—it’s that easy! Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel with minimal fuss!
Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel Recipe FAQs
What kind of oranges should I use for this recipe?
For the best flavor and sweetness, opt for large navel oranges. Their thicker peels hold up well during the candying process, and the balance of sweetness and acidity enhances the final chocolate-dipped treat.
How should I store my chocolate-dipped orange peels?
Once the chocolate has fully hardened, store your delightful treats in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week, but trust me, they won’t last that long because they’re simply irresistible!
Can I freeze chocolate-dipped orange peels?
Yes, you can freeze them! Layer the dipped peels between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy them again, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes—perfect for whenever you need a sweet snack!
What if my candied orange peels aren’t translucent after simmering?
If your peels aren’t translucent after 30 minutes, it may be due to too much heat or not enough time in the syrup. Lower the heat and give them an additional 5-10 minutes; keep simmering until they reach that beautiful glossy finish.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, with each serving containing around 150 calories. Enjoy these delightful bites as a snack or gift them in pretty little bags to friends and family!
Can I substitute milk chocolate for dark chocolate?
Absolutely! While dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the zesty orange flavor, feel free to use milk chocolate if that’s your preference. Just melt it over low heat until smooth, and follow the same dipping instructions for a sweeter twist on this classic treat.
Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel
Ingredients
Method
- Remove the peel from the oranges, ensuring to leave some white pith. Cut the peel into strips.
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the orange peel strips to the syrup and reduce heat. Simmer for about 30 minutes until the peels are translucent.
- Remove the peels from the syrup and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool.
- Melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler over simmering water, stirring until smooth.
- Dip each candied orange peel into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
- Place the chocolate-dipped peels back on the parchment paper and let them set until the chocolate hardens.
