Indulge in the perfect sweet and tangy treat with this Chocolate Covered Orange Peels Recipe. These candied orange peels coated in rich dark chocolate are an irresistible snack, ideal for gifting, holiday tables, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Naturally gluten-free and surprisingly easy to make, they’re a gourmet treat you can enjoy at home.

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Ingredients

2 large organic oranges
1 cup water (250 ml)
1 cup granulated sugar (250 ml)
3 ounces dark chocolate (70% cocoa, 90 grams)
Optional: sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions for Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

Prepare the Oranges
Wash oranges thoroughly under running water. Trim the tops and bottoms. Make 4–5 vertical incisions from top to bottom, cutting just into the flesh. Carefully peel the orange and cut each peel into thin strips, aiming for about 30 strips per orange.
Boil the Peels
Place the orange strips in a pot with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil for 5 minutes, then drain. Repeat with fresh water to reduce bitterness.
Candy the Peels
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar with 1 cup water. Add the boiled peels and simmer for 45–60 minutes until the peels turn translucent.
Cool the Peels
Transfer the candied peels onto a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely, letting excess syrup drip off.
Melt the Chocolate
Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler method) until smooth.
Dip and Set
Dip each orange peel into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Place the dipped peels on parchment paper or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the chocolate fully set.
Optional Finish
Sprinkle lightly with sea salt for an extra flavor contrast.

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Pro Tips

Use organic oranges to avoid pesticide residue.
For less bitterness, boil the peels longer before candying.
Ensure chocolate is fully set before storing to prevent smudging.
Thin strips of peel help create the perfect bite-sized treat.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe balances the natural tang of orange peel with the richness of dark chocolate. The candying process softens the peel while keeping it chewy, and the chocolate provides sweetness and a luxurious finish. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or a healthy homemade snack.

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Substitutions & Variations

Chocolate Options: Use milk chocolate, white chocolate, or vegan chocolate.
Flavor Enhancers: Add a dash of orange liqueur, cinnamon, or chili powder for a twist.
Peels: Try using grapefruit or tangerine peels for variety.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Store in an airtight glass jar in the fridge for up to 2–3 weeks.
Freeze extra portions and thaw as needed.
Chocolate will stay glossy and firm if kept cool.

Serving Ideas for Chocolate Covered Orange Peels

Serve alongside coffee or tea as a dessert accompaniment.
Include on a holiday candy platter.
Package in decorative jars as gifts for friends and family.

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: 23 kcal
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Protein: 0.2 g
Fat: 1 g (Saturated: 0.3 g)
Fiber: 0.3 g
Sugar: 4 g
Vitamin C: 2 mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I skip the boiling step?
A: Boiling reduces the peel’s bitterness and ensures a soft texture. Skipping it may result in very bitter peels.

Q: How long will they keep?
A: Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, chocolate covered orange peels last about 2–3 weeks.

Q: Can I use sugar substitutes?
A: This recipe works best with granulated sugar for candying. Sugar substitutes may affect texture.

These Chocolate Covered Orange Peels are an elegant, homemade treat that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding a sweet touch to your holiday spread, they combine the bright citrus flavor of oranges with rich chocolate for a snack everyone will love.