Imagine the delightful crunch of candied orange peel, enveloped in a rich, glossy layer of velvety chocolate that melts in your mouth. The vibrant citrus notes dance on your palate, while the bittersweet chocolate creates a perfect harmony that’s simply irresistible. Each bite is an adventure, a sweet escape that transports you to sun-kissed orchards and cozy afternoons spent sipping tea.
I still remember the first time I tried chocolate dipped orange peel at my grandmother’s kitchen during the holidays. It was a festive treat that brought family together, laughter echoing as we indulged in this unique combination of flavors. These delightful morsels are perfect for special occasions or just a cozy night in when you’re craving something extraordinary and fun. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor experience that will have you reaching for more!
Why is Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel so irresistible?
Indulging in Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel combines rich flavors with a delightful crunch.
- Unique pairing: The zesty orange shines against smooth chocolate, a match made in heaven!
- Easy to make: No baking skills required—just dip and chill!
- Versatile treat: Perfect for holidays, gifts, or a sweet snack anytime.
- Crowd pleaser: Impress friends and family; they’ll keep coming back for more!
Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel Ingredients
For the Orange Peel:
- 3 large oranges (zested and peeled) – Use organic oranges for a more intense flavor without pesticides.
- 2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the peel while balancing its natural bitterness; you can substitute with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
- 1 cup water – Helps create a syrup to soften the orange peels; you can use orange juice for extra zest.
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 8 oz dark chocolate (chopped) – Choose at least 60% cocoa for a rich taste; milk chocolate is an option for sweeter preference.
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil – This helps the chocolate to melt smoothly; you can skip it if you prefer a thicker coating.
For Garnishing (Optional):
- 1/4 cup crushed pistachios – Adds a beautiful color and crunch, though almonds or walnuts are delicious alternatives.
- Pinch of sea salt – Enhances the chocolate flavor; consider using flaky sea salt for a gourmet touch.
This delightful treat of Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel is bound to elevate your dessert game!
How to Make Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel
1. Prepare the Oranges: Start by washing and peeling the oranges. Use a sharp knife to carefully slice the peel into strips, making them about 1/4 inch wide for easy dipping.
2. Blanch the Peels: Place the orange peel strips in a pot of boiling water. Blanch them for about 5 minutes to soften their texture, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. Simmer in Sugar Syrup: In a saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and water. Bring it to a simmer and add the orange peels. Let them cook on low heat for about 30-45 minutes until they become translucent and syrupy.
4. Dry the Peels: Once cooked, remove the peels from the syrup and place them on a wire rack. Allow them to dry for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results; they should feel slightly tacky but not wet.
5. Melt the Chocolate: While your peels are drying, melt chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler. Stir until smooth, ensuring it’s not too hot to touch—aiming for a glossy finish.
6. Dip Each Peel: Take each dried orange peel and dip it halfway into the melted chocolate. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back on the wire rack to set.
7. Cool Completely: Let the chocolate set at room temperature or speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes until firm.
Optional: Sprinkle with sea salt before cooling for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel
- Choose Fresh Oranges: Use organic oranges for vibrant flavor and better texture. Avoid those with blemishes to ensure optimal taste.
- Peel Thickness Matters: Aim for peels that are about 1/4 inch thick. Too thin may result in bitterness, while too thick can be chewy.
- Proper Drying: Allow the peels to dry completely before dipping. This helps the chocolate adhere better and avoids any sogginess.
- Quality Chocolate: Select high-quality chocolate for dipping. A good chocolate will enhance the overall flavor of your chocolate dipped orange peel.
- Cooling Technique: Let the chocolate set at room temperature on parchment paper. Avoid refrigerating, as this can cause condensation and ruin the finish.
Storage Tips for Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel
Room Temperature: Store chocolate dipped orange peel in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the chocolate dipped orange peel in a sealed container. It can last up to 1 week while maintaining its delightful flavor and texture.
Freezer: To preserve your treats even longer, freeze chocolate dipped orange peel by placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months; just thaw before enjoying!
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat; simply let the chocolate dipped orange peel come to room temperature after refrigeration or freezing for the best taste experience.
Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel Variations
Get creative and make this delightful treat your own with these fun twists and substitutions!
- Dark Chocolate: Swap milk chocolate for dark chocolate to enhance the bittersweet richness of the orange peel. This variation adds a sophisticated depth, perfect for adult palates.
- Coconut Flakes: Roll the dipped peels in unsweetened coconut flakes for a tropical flair. The chewy texture complements the citrus beautifully, transporting you to sun-soaked beaches.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to melted chocolate for a surprising heat. This unexpected twist elevates the flavors, making each bite an exciting adventure.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like pistachios or walnuts, on top of the chocolate before it sets. The added crunch provides a delightful contrast to the smooth chocolate and tender orange peel.
- Vegan Delight: Use dairy-free chocolate chips to make this treat vegan-friendly. Enjoy all the decadent flavors without compromising on dietary preferences.
- Candied Ginger: Incorporate finely chopped candied ginger into the chocolate for a zesty zing. This addition introduces an exciting layer of flavor that dances on your taste buds.
- Zesty Lemon Glaze: Drizzle a lemon glaze over the chocolate after it sets for an extra citrus punch. The bright acidity will elevate the overall experience and brighten your day.
Make Ahead Options
If you’re looking to save time in the kitchen while still impressing your loved ones with delightful treats, then Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel is your answer! You can prep the orange peels up to 24 hours in advance by blanching and candying them, which makes the final dipping process a breeze. Simply slice the oranges into strips, boil them for about 10 minutes, and then simmer in a sugar syrup (2 cups water to 1 cup sugar) for about an hour until tender. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For best results, dip the peels in chocolate just before serving; this ensures they maintain their vibrant flavor and texture. Enjoy the time-saving benefits of this make-ahead option while delighting in every sweet bite!
Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel Recipe FAQs
What type of oranges should I use for chocolate dipped orange peel?
For the best results, choose organic oranges because their peels are free from pesticide residues. Navel oranges are a great choice due to their sweetness and thick skin, but you can also experiment with blood oranges for a unique flavor twist!
How should I store chocolate dipped orange peel?
Once your chocolate dipped orange peels have cooled and hardened, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to two weeks, but trust me, they won’t last that long in a family home!
Can I freeze chocolate dipped orange peel?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the individual pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just remember to let them thaw in the fridge before enjoying again!
What should I do if my chocolate is too thick for dipping?
If you find your melted chocolate is too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a teaspoon of coconut oil or vegetable shortening while melting to achieve a smoother consistency. This not only helps with the texture but also adds a lovely shine to your finished treats.
Are there any dietary considerations for making chocolate dipped orange peel?
Yes! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, choose vegan dark chocolate. Additionally, be mindful of sugar content if you’re catering to specific dietary needs; consider using unsweetened chocolate and adding natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar during melting.
Can I add spices or flavors to my chocolate?
Definitely! Spice things up by adding a pinch of sea salt or even some ground cinnamon or chili powder to your melted chocolate for an exciting flavor kick. Just stir it in before dipping—the warmth of the chocolate will help disperse the flavors beautifully!
Chocolate Dipped Orange Peel
Ingredients
Method
- Wash and peel the oranges. Slice the peel into strips about 1/4 inch wide.
- Blanch the orange peel strips in boiling water for about 5 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and water. Bring to a simmer, add orange peels, and cook on low heat for 30-45 minutes until translucent.
- Remove peels from syrup and place on a wire rack to dry for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Melt chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler until smooth.
- Dip each dried orange peel halfway into the melted chocolate and let excess drip off before placing back on the wire rack.
- Let the chocolate set at room temperature or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until firm.
- Optional: Sprinkle with sea salt before cooling for extra flavor.
