Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the bright zing of citrus with the rich indulgence of chocolate, you’ve come to the right place! Chocolate Covered Orange Peels are a delightful snack that brings joy in every bite. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it’s one I often make during family gatherings and special occasions. The combination of tangy orange and smooth dark chocolate is simply irresistible, making it an ideal gift or an impressive addition to your dessert table.

These chocolate-covered gems are not only tasty but also easy to prepare. Whether you’re whipping them up on a busy weeknight or planning for a festive celebration, you’ll find that they elevate any moment into something truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet and slightly bitter notes of orange peels paired with rich chocolate create a flavor explosion.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These treats can be made in advance and stored, making them great for busy days or last-minute gifts.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add different toppings or experiment with various types of chocolate to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Involve the kids in the dipping process; they will love getting their hands chocolaty!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s gather everything you need to make these tasty Chocolate Covered Orange Peels!

• 4 large oranges, thick-skinned (like navel or Valencia)
• 2 cups granulated sugar (plus more for coating)
• 2 cups water
• 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped or chips

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your Chocolate Covered Orange Peels by trying out some of these fun variations:

• Add Spices: Sprinkle some cinnamon or sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets for an extra flavor kick.
• Use Different Chocolates: Experiment with milk chocolate or white chocolate for different taste profiles.
• Drizzle with Caramel: After dipping in chocolate, drizzle some melted caramel over the peels for a decadent twist.
• Mix in Nuts: Roll the dipped peels in finely chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios for added crunch.

How to Make Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

Step 1: Prepare the Orange Peels

Start by washing your oranges thoroughly. Peel them carefully and cut the peel into 1/4-inch wide strips. It’s okay if some white pith remains; it adds to the texture but try to remove most of it since it can be quite bitter.

Step 2: Blanching the Peels

Blanching is crucial here because it helps reduce bitterness from the orange peels. Place them in cold water, bring it to a boil, then drain. Repeat this process two more times using fresh water each time. This step ensures your finished candy will have that lovely sweet flavor we all crave!

Step 3: Make the Syrup

Combine 2 cups of sugar and 2 cups of water in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, then add your blanched orange peels. Let them simmer gently for about 45–60 minutes until they become translucent. This syrup bath not only flavors the peels but also gives them that delightful candy texture.

Step 4: Drying the Peels

Once your peels are done simmering, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the syrup. Place them on a cooling rack or parchment paper and let them dry out for about 4 to 6 hours—or even overnight if you can wait! When they feel tacky to touch, you may toss them in extra sugar if you’d like.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate

Now comes my favorite part—melting the chocolate! You can do this using a double boiler or microwave in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring until smooth. Make sure it’s silky and ready for dipping!

Step 6: Dip and Set

Dip each dried peel halfway into your melted chocolate and let any excess drip off before placing it back on parchment paper. If needed, chill briefly until set. Your Chocolate Covered Orange Peels are now ready to be enjoyed!

Enjoy making these delightful treats! They are sure to brighten your day or anyone else’s when shared!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

Making your own Chocolate Covered Orange Peels can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to ensure your peels turn out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right oranges: Using thick-skinned oranges like navel or Valencia ensures you’ll get peels that hold up well during cooking and provide a satisfying bite.

• Blanch thoroughly: Don’t skip the blanching steps! This process removes bitterness from the peels and ensures a sweeter final product that balances beautifully with the rich chocolate.

• Let them dry completely: Allowing the orange peels to dry for several hours, or even overnight, helps the chocolate adhere better. If they’re too moist, the chocolate may not set properly.

• Use quality chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for dipping. The flavor of the chocolate is crucial, so choose one that you enjoy eating on its own.

• Experiment with coatings: After dipping in chocolate, consider rolling your peels in crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or even sprinkles for an added layer of flavor and texture!

How to Serve Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

These delightful treats can be presented in various ways to impress family and friends. Here are some creative serving ideas:

Garnishes

• Chopped pistachios: Sprinkle some chopped pistachios on top of your dipped peels for a pop of color and crunch.

• Sea salt: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the sweet and tangy flavors while adding a gourmet touch.

Side Dishes

• Dark chocolate mousse: The rich creaminess of dark chocolate mousse complements the citrus brightness of the orange peels, creating an indulgent dessert experience.

• Fruit salad: A fresh fruit salad with berries and melons makes a refreshing counterpart to the sweetness of the chocolate-covered peels.

• Coffee or espresso: Enjoying these treats alongside a cup of coffee or espresso enhances their flavors and makes for a delightful pairing.

• Cheese platter: A selection of cheeses—especially creamy brie or tangy goat cheese—can provide an interesting contrast to the sweet orange peels, making it perfect for entertaining.

Enjoy making and sharing these delectable Chocolate Covered Orange Peels! Whether you keep them for yourself or gift them to others, they’re sure to bring smiles all around.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate Covered Orange Peels recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to create a delightful treat in advance. With proper storage, these treats can last for weeks, making them an excellent choice for gifting or enjoying at your leisure.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the chocolate-covered orange peels in an airtight container.
• Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• For best freshness, consume within two weeks.

Freezing

• Lay the dipped orange peels on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months; simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat these treats! Enjoy them cold or at room temperature straight from storage.
• If you prefer them slightly warm, you can leave them out for a few minutes or pop them in the microwave for just a few seconds.

FAQs

Got questions about making your own Chocolate Covered Orange Peels? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use any type of chocolate for Chocolate Covered Orange Peels?

Yes! While dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the citrus flavor, you can also experiment with milk or white chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste.

How long do Chocolate Covered Orange Peels last?

When stored correctly in an airtight container, your Chocolate Covered Orange Peels will last up to two weeks at room temperature or up to three months in the freezer.

Can I customize my Chocolate Covered Orange Peels?

Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like crushed nuts, sea salt, or sprinkles after dipping them in chocolate for added texture and flavor.

What oranges are best for making Chocolate Covered Orange Peels?

Thick-skinned oranges like navel or Valencia are ideal as they provide more peel and less pith, resulting in better flavor and texture.

Are Chocolate Covered Orange Peels suitable for gifting?

Yes! These homemade treats make wonderful gifts. Package them nicely in a decorative box or jar to share the joy of this delightful confection with friends and family.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Chocolate Covered Orange Peels! This recipe brings together the zesty brightness of oranges and rich chocolate into an irresistible treat that’s easy to share. Whether you’re indulging yourself or gifting someone special, I’m sure they’ll bring smiles all around. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!