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Perfect Festive Spiced Dried Orange Slices Recipe

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These spiced dried orange slices are a happy accident turned holiday tradition. Infused with cinnamon, star anise, and clove, they’re perfect for snacking, garnishing cocktails, or gifting.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 3 whole star anise
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
  • 4 medium navel oranges
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  2. Make the spiced syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves. If using a vanilla bean, scrape seeds into the pot and add the pod. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. While syrup simmers, wash and dry oranges. Slice off both ends, then slice crosswise into ¼-inch thick rounds. Remove any seeds.
  4. Optional: Blanch orange slices by boiling them in water for 1 minute, then transferring to an ice bath. Pat dry with paper towels.
  5. Remove saucepan from heat. Gently place orange slices in warm syrup in a single layer. Soak for 2-3 minutes per side. Use tongs to flip.
  6. Lift slices out, letting excess drip off. Arrange on prepared baking sheets in a single layer, not touching. For faster drying, place slices on a wire rack set inside the baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, flipping halfway through. At 2-hour mark, check every 20 minutes. Slices should be dry to the touch but still slightly pliable.
  8. Cool completely on baking sheets on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. They will firm up as they cool.
  9. Use immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

Slice thickness matters: aim for ¼-inch for even drying. Humidity can extend drying time up to 4 hours. For a sugar-free version, skip the syrup bath or use allulose/monk fruit. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, refrigerate for up to 1 month, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: dried orange slices, spiced oranges, holiday snack, edible gifts, citrus garnish, mulled wine garnish

Find it online: https://dinadishes.com/perfect-festive-spiced-dried-orange-slices-recipe/