Can I use tangelos or other citrus?

Yes! Tangelos work beautifully (and taste extra bright). You can also try lemons or grapefruit, but keep in mind grapefruit can be more bitter.

How do I store candied orange slices?

Once fully dried and set, store in an airtight container at room temperature for about 1–2 weeks . If your kitchen is warm or humid, they may last better in the fridge.

Why are my slices still sticky after 48 hours?

Usually it’s humidity or they just need more drying time. Leave them out longer, or move them to a drier spot. If you’re in a very humid area, you can place them in the oven with the light on (oven off) to create a slightly warmer, drier environment.

Can I dip them in chocolate right away?

Wait until they’re mostly dry and set. If they’re too wet, the chocolate can slide off or turn streaky.

3-Ingredients Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe for a Magical Treat

Description

This Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe makes glossy, chewy candied orange (or tangelo) slices with just 3 ingredients. Perfect for gifting, snacking, and chocolate-dipping.

Ingredients

Scale

3 small oranges or tangelos (about 18–20 thin slices)
3 cups granulated sugar
3 cups water

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Instructions

Slice the citrus: Wash oranges well. Slice into ¼-inch rounds (a mandoline helps for even slices).
Make the syrup: In a large skillet or saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium-high, stirring until dissolved. Bring to a gentle boil.
Simmer: Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Add orange slices in a single layer (slight overlap is okay). Simmer 45–60 minutes, turning occasionally, until peels look translucent.
Dry: Remove slices with tongs and place in a single layer on a wire rack. Let dry at room temp, uncovered, 24–48 hours, until tacky but set (gummy-like).
Optional finishes: Roll in sugar for a frosted look, or dip in melted chocolate and sprinkle with flaky salt.

Notes

Drying time matters: Humidity can extend drying time—give them extra time if they’re still very sticky.

Uniform slices = best texture: Try to keep slices an even thickness so they candy evenly.

Save the syrup: Leftover citrus syrup is amazing in tea, cocktails/mocktails, or drizzled on pancakes.

Optional upgrades: Sugar-roll after drying, or dip in dark chocolate for a classic orange-chocolate combo.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Slice
Calories: 70 kcal
Sugar: 17 g
Sodium: 1 mg
Fat: 0 g
Saturated Fat: 0 g
Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Protein: 0.2 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg