I love making dried orange slices in my kitchen. They bring such warmth and beauty to everything from my holiday decorations to fancy cocktails. The bright orange color adds a special touch that makes simple things look amazing. I always keep these on hand because they last forever and make everything look more special.
What Makes These Orange Slices So Special
Trust me, these dried orange slices will become your new favorite kitchen staple. I use them to make my cocktails look fancy and add a special touch to my baked goods. During the holidays, I string them into gorgeous garlands. The best part is they stay beautiful for months.
What You'll Need
- Oranges: Pick your favorites. I love big naval oranges for statement pieces, and blood oranges create stunning deep red slices.
Making Your Orange Slices
- Get Your Oven Ready
- Warm up your oven to 200°F (93°C) and put parchment paper on your baking sheet.
- Slice Your Oranges
- Cut them into thin slices about 1/8 inch thick. Grab some paper towels and pat them dry.
- Set Them Up
- Spread your slices on the baking sheet. Make sure they aren't touching each other.
- Time to Dry
- Pop them in the oven for 2 to 4 hours. I flip mine every hour. Keep an eye on them so they don't burn.
- Finishing Up
- Let them cool completely before you pack them away.
My Secret Tips
Watch your orange slices carefully while they dry. If they start getting too dark, turn down the heat. I love experimenting with different types of oranges. Blood oranges make gorgeous deep red slices that look stunning during the holidays.
Keeping Your Orange Slices Fresh
Store your dried slices in a sealed container at room temperature. They'll stay good for up to 2 years. I keep mine in my pantry and grab them whenever I need to add some sparkle to my decorations or recipes.
Fun Ways to Use Your Orange Slices
These dried slices make everything prettier. I drop them in my mulled wine and sangria, decorate my orange bread with them, and create beautiful holiday decorations. Sometimes I mix them into potpourri bowls around my house for a natural citrus scent.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long do dried orange slices last?
Dried orange slices can last up to 2 years when stored in an airtight container.
- → Can I use other citrus fruits for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other citrus fruits like lemons, limes, or grapefruits to make dried slices.
- → What can I use dried orange slices for?
Dried orange slices can be used for decorations, garnishes for drinks or desserts, potpourri, and even as ingredients in recipes.
- → Do I need to peel the oranges before slicing?
No, you don't need to peel the oranges. Slice them with the peel on for a more decorative look.
- → Can I dry the orange slices in a dehydrator instead of the oven?
Yes, you can use a dehydrator to dry the orange slices. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the drying time and temperature.