How do I jazz up my desserts with citrus peel candies?

Add a zesty twist to your desserts with our citrus peel candies! Elevate your sweet treats with a burst of citrus flavor and colorful candied peels.

You'll need

Items needed to answer the question, How do I jazz up my desserts with citrus peel candies. Items include: Citrus Fruits Sugar Water Optional: Lemon or Orange Juice

Citrus Fruits 4-5 pieces - any combination of oranges, lemons, limes, or grapefruits
Sugar 1 cup
Water 1 cup
Optional: Lemon or Orange Juice 1-2 tablespoons

Take note
Be careful not to burn the peel when boiling it. Also, watch out for sticky fingers - these candies can be quite addictive!

1

Prepare the Citrus Peels

Start by washing your citrus fruits thoroughly. Using a peeler, carefully remove the outer colorful layer of the fruit, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. Try to get long strips for an aesthetically pleasing presentation.

2

Boil the Peels

Place the citrus peels in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and let the peels simmer for about 10 minutes. This helps to soften them and removes any bitterness.

3

Create a Syrup

In a separate saucepan, combine equal parts water and sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. You can add a squeeze of lemon or orange juice for an extra citrus kick.

4

Add the Peels to the Syrup

Once the sugar has dissolved, carefully transfer the boiled citrus peels into the syrup. Allow them to simmer in the syrup for about 45 minutes to an hour. This step helps to infuse the peels with sweetness and intensify their citrus aroma.

5

Drain and Dry

Using a slotted spoon, remove the candied peels from the syrup and let them drain off any excess. Place them on a wire rack or parchment paper to dry for a few hours. You can toss them in granulated sugar for a sparkling effect.

6

Store and Enjoy

Once dry, transfer your citrus peel candies to an airtight container. They can be stored for several weeks. Use them to garnish cakes, cupcakes, ice cream, or enjoy them as a delightful snack whenever you're in need of a zesty pick-me-up!