Description

These Chocolate-Dipped Candied Oranges are a delightful treat combining the zesty sweetness of slowly candied orange slices with the rich, smooth taste of melted chocolate. Perfect as a sophisticated snack or a festive gift, this recipe involves gently simmering orange slices in a spiced sugar syrup, drying them low and slow in the oven, then finishing with a decadent chocolate coating.

Ingredients

Scale

Oranges

6 oranges, washed

Syrup and Spices

3 cups sugar
1 2/3 cups water
1 cinnamon stick or 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3-4 whole cloves
1 star anise pod

Chocolate Coating

1 cup preferred chocolate (dark, milk, or semi-sweet), melted

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare Orange Slices: Wash the oranges thoroughly and slice them into rounds approximately 0.3 inches thick. Optionally, blanch the slices in boiling water for 5-10 minutes to reduce bitterness, then drain.
Cook the Oranges in Syrup: In a pot, combine sugar, water, and the spices (cinnamon, cloves, star anise). Add the orange slices to the pot and cook over low heat for about 1.5 hours, or until the slices are translucent and candied, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Drain and Dry: Carefully drain the orange slices from the syrup and place them on paper towels to remove excess moisture. Then transfer the slices onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Bake the Candied Oranges: Preheat the oven to 212°F (100°C). Bake the orange slices for 30 minutes total, flipping them halfway through the baking time to ensure even drying and slight crispness.
Cool Completely: Allow the candied orange slices to cool fully on a wire rack before proceeding to the next step. This cooling helps them firm up before dipping.
Dip in Chocolate: Melt your preferred chocolate until smooth. Dip each cooled orange slice completely into the melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage. Place the dipped slices on parchment paper to set. Refrigerate briefly if needed until the chocolate hardens before serving or storing.

Notes

Blanching the orange slices helps reduce their natural bitterness but is optional depending on taste preference.
You can customize the spices in the syrup to your liking; cardamom or vanilla bean can be delicious additions.
Store finished chocolate-dipped candied oranges in an airtight container in a cool place or refrigerate for prolonged freshness.
Use high-quality chocolate for best flavor and smooth coating.
Allow chocolate to set completely before stacking or packaging to prevent sticking.