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Perfect Spiced Dried Orange Slices: Easy Holiday Garnish

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These spiced dried orange slices are simmered in a cinnamon-clove-star anise syrup before being oven-dried, resulting in a beautifully fragrant and flavorful garnish perfect for holiday cocktails, desserts, and gifts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 tablespoon whole cloves
  • 3 star anise pods
  • 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract added after simmering)
  • 1 tablespoon whole allspice berries (optional)
  • 4 to 5 medium navel oranges (or blood oranges, cara cara oranges for color variation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spiced Syrup: Combine water, sugar, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, and allspice berries in a large pot. If using a vanilla bean, add the split pod and seeds. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
  2. Slice the Oranges: Wash and dry oranges. Slice off the top and bottom, then cut crosswise into 1/4-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline.
  3. Simmer the Slices: Gently lower orange slices into the simmering syrup. Simmer for 45 to 60 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pith becomes translucent and slices look glassy.
  4. Drain and Blot: Transfer slices to a paper towel-lined surface. Let drain for a few minutes, then gently blot tops with more paper towels to remove excess syrup.
  5. Arrange on Baking Sheets: Line baking sheets with parchment paper and place wire racks on top. Arrange slices in a single layer without overlapping. If no racks, place directly on parchment.
  6. Dry in the Oven: Preheat oven to lowest setting (170°F to 200°F). Place baking sheets inside and dry for 3 to 4 hours, flipping halfway if directly on sheets. Slices are done when dry to the touch but still slightly pliable.
  7. Cool Completely: Turn off oven and let slices cool inside with door slightly open for about 1 hour. They should feel leathery and firm when cool.

Notes

Don’t skip the simmer step—it infuses the entire slice with spice. For best results, use whole spices not ground. Slices keep for 2-3 weeks in an airtight container at room temperature. If they soften, re-crisp in a 200°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Flavor deepens after 3-5 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: dried orange slices, spiced orange slices, holiday garnish, homemade garnish, edible decorations, citrus garnish, holiday recipe

Find it online: https://willarecipes.com/perfect-spiced-dried-orange-slices-easy-holiday-garnish/