Chocolate Covered Orange Peels: 5 Irresistible Treats

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Chocolate Covered Orange Peels are a delightful treat that combines the bright, zesty flavor of oranges with the rich, velvety texture of chocolate. This easy recipe transforms leftover orange peels into an elegant, gourmet candy that is perfect for a quick breakfast accent, a healthy snack, or a giftable dessert. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create these delicious chocolate-dipped orange peels that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a unique holiday treat or a simple indulgence, this is your new go-to easy recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

These chocolate-dipped orange peels are not only a feast for your taste buds but also come with several benefits:

• They are a great way to use leftover orange peels, reducing waste.
• Rich in fiber, making them a healthier dessert option.
• The combination of chocolate and citrus is both refreshing and indulgent.
• Perfect for gifting, they make elegant homemade chocolate orange peel treats.
• Easy to make; even beginners can master this recipe!
• Versatile: can be made with dark chocolate orange peels or milk chocolate orange peels depending on your preference.
• Great for any occasion, from holiday parties to casual snacking.
• They can be customized with toppings like sea salt or chili powder.

This recipe easily fits into a vegan diet, making it a suitable option for a wider audience.

Ingredients for Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

Gather these items:

• 3–4 oranges
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 6 ounces dark chocolate
• Optional pinch sea salt or chili powder

How to Make Chocolate Covered Orange Peels Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Wash oranges thoroughly and peel them in quarters. Slice the peel into 1/4-inch strips.
2. Step 2: Place the orange strips in a saucepan, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Drain and repeat twice to reduce bitterness.
3. Step 3: In a clean saucepan, mix 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar. Simmer until sugar dissolves.
4. Step 4: Add the blanched orange peels and simmer for 45–60 minutes until translucent.
5. Step 5: Remove peels and dry them on a wire rack for 4–6 hours or overnight until no longer sticky.
6. Step 6: Melt chocolate using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals. Stir until smooth.
7. Step 7: Dip each dried peel halfway in chocolate and place on a parchment-lined tray.
8. Step 8: Optionally sprinkle sea salt or chili powder before chocolate sets.
9. Step 9: Let set at room temperature or refrigerate for 20 minutes until hardened.
10. Step 10: Store in an airtight container.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

Keep these in mind:

• These peels make a great giftable dessert.
• Perfect for a quick breakfast accent or healthy snack.
• For a gourmet touch, use high-quality chocolate; the best chocolate for orange peels is often dark chocolate.
• Experiment with flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar syrup.

Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

There are several delightful ways to enjoy these treats:

• Serve them as a coffee companion for a sophisticated brunch.
• Use them as a topping for desserts, such as ice cream or yogurt.
• Pair them with tea for a refreshing afternoon snack.

How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

To keep your chocolate-covered orange peels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for several weeks if kept dry. If you want to make them ahead of time for meal prep, they freeze well too. Just ensure they are wrapped properly to prevent freezer burn.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

What’s the secret to perfect Chocolate Covered Orange Peels?

The secret lies in the blanching process, which reduces bitterness and enhances the sweet flavor of the candied orange peel chocolate. Make sure to dry them thoroughly before dipping in chocolate for the best results.

Can I make Chocolate Covered Orange Peels ahead of time?

Absolutely! These treats are perfect for make-ahead snacks. Just ensure they are stored properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chocolate Covered Orange Peels?

One common mistake is not drying the peels sufficiently before dipping them in chocolate. This can result in a less smooth chocolate coating. Make sure they are completely dry!

Variations of Chocolate Covered Orange Peels You Can Try

Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Use milk chocolate orange peels for a sweeter taste.
• Add a drizzle of white chocolate for a decorative touch.
• Try using different citrus fruits like grapefruit or lemon for a unique twist.
• Experiment with adding spices to the chocolate mixture for an extra kick.

For more information about chocolate and its benefits, check out this Healthline article.

To learn more about reducing food waste, visit EPA’s guide on reducing food waste.

For tips on healthy snacking, see this Choose My Plate resource.

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