Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

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Chocolate covered orange peels are that perfect balance of citrusy brightness and deep cocoa richness that makes your taste buds sing. Whether you’re making them for a festive holiday tray or just as a sweet afternoon treat, this candy has a way of delighting everyone who takes a bite. The chewy candied peel coated in smooth, rich chocolate is an elegant combination that never gets old.

You don’t need a candy thermometer or a lot of fancy tools—just a bit of time and patience. The result is a glossy, irresistible treat with a zesty bite. Once you try these, store-bought versions just won’t cut it anymore.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Covered Orange Peels Recipe

These chocolate covered orange peels are made with just a handful of ingredients and taste gourmet. They’re perfect for gifting, batch-making ahead of time, or even serving as a fancy nibble after dinner. The recipe is surprisingly simple, and once you master it, you can play around with other citrus peels or even dip them in white chocolate or dark for variety.

Plus, they keep well for weeks and can be dressed up in sugar or sea salt for an extra twist. You’ll find yourself reaching for these way more than you expect.

Can I Use Any Type of Orange Peels?

Yes! While navel oranges are the easiest and most common choice for this recipe thanks to their thicker skin and less bitterness, you can also use blood oranges or even tangerines. The key is making sure the peels are cleaned thoroughly, pith trimmed if needed, and simmered long enough to soften and mellow any bitterness. Organic oranges are best since you’re using the peel.

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Ingredients for the Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

To make these addictive treats, you only need a few staple ingredients. Each one plays an important role in texture and flavor, so don’t skip anything!

• Oranges
  You’ll need the peels from firm, thick-skinned oranges. Navel oranges work beautifully because they have plenty of peel and a mild pith.
• Sugar
  Essential for candying the peels. The sugar syrup infuses the orange with sweetness and gives the peel that chewy, glossy texture.
• Water
  Used in both blanching the peels and making the sugar syrup.
• Dark Chocolate or Semi-Sweet Chocolate
  Choose a good-quality chocolate that melts smoothly and balances the sweetness of the candied peel.
• Optional: Coarse Sea Salt or Extra Sugar for Garnish
  Sea salt adds contrast, while rolling in extra sugar gives the peels sparkle and texture.

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How To Make the Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

Step 1: Prep the Orange Peels

Slice the tops and bottoms off the oranges. Score the skin in quarters and peel it off carefully. Slice the peels into thin strips about 1/4-inch wide.

Step 2: Blanch to Remove Bitterness

Place the peels in a saucepan, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Drain and repeat this process two more times. This softens the peels and tones down any bitterness.

Step 3: Candy the Peels

In a clean saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and water to create a simple syrup. Add the blanched orange peels and simmer on low for about 45-60 minutes until translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Dry the Peels

Using tongs, transfer the peels to a wire rack or parchment paper. Let them dry for at least 6 hours or overnight to remove excess moisture before dipping.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate

Break up your chocolate and melt it in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

Step 6: Dip and Set

Dip each candied peel halfway into the melted chocolate. Let the excess drip off, then lay on parchment paper to set. Sprinkle with sea salt or sugar while the chocolate is still wet, if desired.

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How to Store and Serve Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

Once your peels are completely set, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 to 3 weeks at room temperature. You can also refrigerate them if your kitchen runs warm. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

This recipe yields about 30 to 40 chocolate-dipped orange peels, making it ideal for sharing or packaging up for small gifts.

What to Serve With Chocolate Covered Orange Peels?

A Cup of Espresso

The bitterness of espresso pairs perfectly with the sweet, zesty orange and dark chocolate.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Chop a few peels and sprinkle them over vanilla ice cream for a gourmet twist.

A Glass of Red Wine

Try pairing with a full-bodied red or a port wine for a truly indulgent dessert bite.

Cheese Platter

Serve alongside aged cheddar or brie on a charcuterie board for a contrast of sweet and savory.

Hot Chocolate

Drop one or two into your mug of cocoa and stir—it adds a subtle citrusy chocolate infusion.

Yogurt Parfait

Layer with Greek yogurt, granola, and fruit for a breakfast treat.

Pound Cake

Top slices of buttery pound cake with chopped peels and a drizzle of chocolate.

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Want More Candy Recipes with a Twist?

If you’re loving these chocolate covered orange peels, you might also enjoy these other sweet favorites:

• Ooey Gooey Bars – A Decadent Treat You Can’t Resist
• Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons for a chewy-crunchy bite
• Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for a no-bake beauty
• Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy for a spicy-sweet classic
• Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars if you’re feeling playful

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you sugar the peels? Try white chocolate? Add a dash of chili for spice?

I love hearing your spins on these nostalgic treats. Questions welcome too—let’s make candy together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and sweet ideas on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and find your next dessert favorite!

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