Description
Homemade dried orange slices add Mediterranean charm to kitchen counters, bringing zesty sunshine to winter pantries. Delicate citrus rounds promise simple elegance for garnishing desserts, cocktails, and seasonal decorations.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 large oranges
Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and set the oven temperature to a low 200°F (93°C).
- Using a sharp knife, cut oranges into thin, uniform 1/4-inch rounds, carefully removing any visible seeds during the slicing process.
- Enhance the flavor profile by gently brushing each orange slice with a light coating of honey and sprinkling a delicate dusting of ground cinnamon.
- Arrange the orange slices strategically on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring each slice sits flat and does not overlap with neighboring pieces.
- Position the baking sheet in the preheated oven and allow the orange slices to slowly dehydrate for 2-3 hours, rotating the tray and checking the progress every half hour to promote even drying.
- Monitor the slices closely, looking for a crisp, completely dried texture that indicates they are ready to be removed from the oven.
- Transfer the dried orange slices to a cooling rack and let them reach room temperature naturally.
- Once cooled, transfer the dehydrated orange slices to an airtight container, where they can be preserved for up to two weeks and used for decorative purposes, culinary garnishes, or enjoyed as a light, citrusy snack.
Notes
- Choose firm, ripe oranges with minimal blemishes to ensure the best-looking and most flavorful dried slices.
- Pat orange slices dry with paper towels before baking to reduce moisture and speed up the drying process.
- Rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking to promote even dehydration and prevent uneven browning.
- Experiment with different spices like cardamom or nutmeg for unique flavor variations that complement the orange’s natural sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours
- Category: Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg