Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

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Have you ever bitten into something that instantly made you pause and smile? These Chocolate Covered Orange Peels might just do that. With their glistening sugar-coated surface and glossy dark chocolate shell, they strike the perfect balance between bright citrus and rich indulgence. This classic confection has been delighting sweet tooths for generations, and it still feels like a hidden gem when served at a gathering or tucked into a gift box.

What makes them special is their duality: the vibrant zing of orange zest mellowed by the comforting, bittersweet snap of chocolate. Plus, they look absolutely stunning. Whether you want to impress guests or simply enjoy a sophisticated snack, this recipe offers a beautiful combination of flavor, texture, and aroma.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Making Chocolate Covered Orange Peels is simpler than it looks, but the tools you use play a big role in the outcome.

• Vegetable Peeler or Paring Knife: For clean, even strips of orange peel without too much pith. Too much pith makes the peel bitter.
• Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: Essential for simmering the peels gently and evenly, especially when blanching them multiple times to reduce bitterness.
• Fine Mesh Strainer or Slotted Spoon: Helps remove the orange peels from boiling water without losing pieces.
• Cooling Rack or Parchment Paper: For drying and setting the peels after sugar-coating or chocolate-dipping.
• Double Boiler or Microwave-Safe Bowl: Needed for gently melting chocolate without scorching it.
• Tongs or Forks: Ideal for dipping each peel strip into melted chocolate cleanly and evenly.

Having these tools ready means a smoother process and prettier, tastier results.

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Ingredients for the Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

• Oranges: Choose thick-skinned oranges like navel or Valencia. Their zest holds shape better and offers a fragrant citrus punch that’s key to this candy.
• Granulated Sugar: Used to both candy the orange peels and add a final sparkle. It balances the bitterness of the peel and intensifies the citrus sweetness.
• Water: Essential for the blanching and candying process, it helps soften the peels and dissolve the sugar into a syrup.
• Dark Chocolate (60-70%): Rich, slightly bitter chocolate is the perfect contrast to the sweet citrus. It balances the sugary notes and adds a velvety texture.

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How To Make the Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

Step 1: Peel and Slice with Precision

Using a vegetable peeler or paring knife, remove the orange peel in wide strips. Slice them into even sticks, about 1/4-inch wide. Avoid too much white pith for the best flavor.

Step 2: Blanch to Remove Bitterness

Place the strips in a saucepan with water and bring to a boil. Drain and repeat this process two more times. This step is crucial—it softens the peels and removes harsh bitterness.

Step 3: Candy the Peels

Combine equal parts sugar and water in a clean saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the peels and cook until translucent, about 45-60 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even coating.

Step 4: Dry Completely

Using a slotted spoon, remove the peels and place them on a cooling rack or parchment-lined tray. Let them dry for several hours or overnight. Optionally, toss them in extra granulated sugar once slightly tacky.

Step 5: Dip in Chocolate

Melt dark chocolate using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts. Dip each candied peel halfway into the melted chocolate and place them back on parchment to set.

Step 6: Let Them Set

Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature or refrigerate briefly if your kitchen is warm. Once set, they are ready to enjoy!

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Serving and Storing Your Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

Chocolate Covered Orange Peels are best served as a refined after-dinner treat or an elegant addition to a dessert board. Their vibrant color and glossy finish also make them perfect for gifting—simply pack them into small cellophane bags or decorative tins.

To store, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If your kitchen is particularly warm, store them in the fridge with parchment between layers to prevent sticking. They also freeze well—just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the orange peels from being too bitter?

The blanching step is crucial. Repeating it at least three times significantly reduces bitterness while preserving that bright citrus flavor.

Can I use milk or white chocolate instead?

Yes, though dark chocolate offers the best contrast to the sweet and slightly bitter orange peel. Milk chocolate gives a softer, sweeter finish, and white chocolate adds creamy richness.

How long do they take to dry before dipping in chocolate?

It’s best to let the candied peels dry overnight, or at least 6–8 hours. This ensures the chocolate sticks well and doesn’t slide off.

Can I use other citrus peels?

Absolutely! Try lemon or grapefruit for variety. Just adjust blanching times based on peel thickness.

Do I need to refrigerate them?

Not unless your kitchen is very warm. They hold up best at room temperature in a dry, airtight container.

Can I double the batch?

Yes—just make sure your saucepan is large enough to allow the peels to candy evenly without overcrowding.

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Want More Chocolate Dessert Ideas?

If chocolate is your love language, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy it. For something equally rich but a bit more sliceable, the Indulgent Chocolate Chess Pie offers deep cocoa flavor in every bite.

Craving a creamy texture? The Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes come with a gooey marshmallow center you won’t forget. And if you love pairing fruit with chocolate, the Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries make a playful and fresh choice.

More in the mood for a retro favorite? Don’t miss the Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars layered with everything you love. Or add a little caramel to the mix with the Indulgent 6-Minute Caramel Recipe and drizzle it right over these orange peels for a gourmet twist.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dessert boards for easy access—just hit the Pin button.

If you try it, I’d love to hear your spin. Did you dip the whole peel? Did you dust them with sea salt? Leave a comment below—I love seeing how everyone personalizes this classic candy.

And if you’re into trying more sweet recipes like this, follow along on my Pinterest LadyPlate page for daily inspiration and fresh ideas straight from my kitchen.

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