As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a sanctuary of warmth and cheer. This year, I discovered an enchanting treat that perfectly captures the essence of festive indulgence: Candied Blood Orange Slices with Dark Chocolate. There’s something utterly captivating about the vibrant color of blood oranges, their sweet-tart flavor beautifully complemented by the richness of dark chocolate. The first time I took a bite, it felt like tasting the very spirit of joy.
These bite-sized delights not only make for an elegant addition to a holiday dessert table but also shine as a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will adore. With just a handful of ingredients and a touch of patience, you can create these beautiful candies that are a feast for the eyes and the palate. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your gatherings or simply enjoy a sweet treat after a long day, these chocolate-dipped orange slices will surely bring a smile to your face. Let’s dive into the recipe together!
Why Love Candied Blood Orange Slices with Dark Chocolate?
Irresistible Combination: The sweet-tart blood oranges paired with rich dark chocolate create a flavor harmony that’s simply unforgettable.
Effortless Elegance: Impress guests effortlessly with a stunning treat that looks gourmet but requires minimal effort.
Perfect for Gifting: Wrapped in decorative containers, these candies make the ideal homemade gift for the holiday season.
Versatile Enjoyment: Whether served on a dessert platter or enjoyed as a snack, they are a delightful addition to any occasion.
Make-Ahead Magic: With a two-week shelf life, you can prepare these in advance and keep the holiday spirit alive for days!
Candied Blood Orange Slices with Dark Chocolate Ingredients
• Elevate your festive treats with this recipe!
For the Candied Oranges
- Blood Oranges – Adds vibrant color and tart flavor; make sure they are scrubbed well for cleanliness.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides the essential sweetness to balance the tartness; no direct substitutions recommended.
- Water – Aids in creating the simple syrup mixture; could substitute with fruit juice for an exciting twist.
- Light Corn Syrup – Helps to prevent sugar crystallization during candying; in a pinch, honey may be used but will alter the flavor slightly.
For the Chocolate Coating
- Bittersweet Chocolate – Coats the candies for a rich, satisfying finish; 72% dark chocolate is preferred, but semisweet is a good alternative.
- Maldon Salt (optional) – Enhances the flavor contrast of the chocolate and orange; it’s not mandatory, so skip if preferred.
These Candied Blood Orange Slices with Dark Chocolate are not just eye-catching, but they also carry an unforgettable taste that makes them perfect for all your holiday festivities!
How to Make Candied Blood Orange Slices with Dark Chocolate
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Prepare the Oranges: Trim the ends of the blood oranges and slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds, taking care to remove any seeds. This step creates lovely, bite-sized pieces that are easy to dip in chocolate.
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Make Simple Syrup: In a deep skillet, combine the granulated sugar, water, and light corn syrup. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved and the syrup begins to boil.
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Candy the Oranges: Gently add the orange slices to the syrup in a single layer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1 hour, or until the slices become translucent and tender, soaking up the sweet flavors.
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Dry Slices: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the candied orange slices onto a cooling rack. Allow them to dry for at least 24 hours, or until they feel minimally tacky to the touch. This step ensures the slices will hold their shape when dipped.
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Melt Chocolate: In a heat-proof bowl, melt the bittersweet chocolate in the microwave at medium power, stirring every 15 seconds until smooth and fully melted. The warm chocolate should have a glossy finish.
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Dip and Set: Dip the dried orange slices halfway into the melted chocolate, letting the excess chocolate drip back into the bowl. Place them on a sheet of parchment paper. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of Maldon salt on top for added flavor and contrast. Refrigerate until set, about 10-15 minutes.
Optional: Garnish with extra zest from a blood orange for added flavor and a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Candied Blood Orange Slices with Dark Chocolate
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Even Slices Matter: Ensure your blood orange slices are uniform in thickness for consistent candying. This prevents some slices from becoming overly chewy while others are undercooked.
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Don’t Rush the Simmer: Maintaining a low simmer rather than boiling is crucial for achieving that beautiful transparency. Slow cooking allows the slices to soak up the sweet syrup without becoming mushy.
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Cooling Time is Key: Allow your candied orange slices to dry completely for at least 24 hours. This will ensure they hold their shape when dipped in chocolate.
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Smooth Melting Process: Use a microwave-safe bowl and melt the bittersweet chocolate gradually, stirring every 15 seconds to prevent burning. A smooth chocolate coating makes all the difference.
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Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store your chocolate-covered candied slices in layers separated by parchment paper in an airtight container. They can last up to 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator.
How to Store and Freeze Candied Blood Orange Slices with Dark Chocolate
Room Temperature: Keep unchocolate-covered slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, ensuring they are well protected from moisture.
Fridge: Store chocolate-dipped slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator, separated by parchment paper, for up to 2-3 weeks. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents sticking.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze chocolate-dipped slices in a single layer, then transfer them to an airtight bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these treats; simply enjoy them chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Candied Blood Orange Slices with Dark Chocolate are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the candied orange slices up to 2 weeks in advance by simply following the initial steps and allowing the slices to dry for 24 hours. Once dried, store the unchocolate-covered slices in an airtight container at room temperature. When you’re ready to indulge or gift them, simply melt the bittersweet chocolate and dip the dried slices as directed. This way, you can whip up an elegant treat any time during the busy holiday season, bringing joy and sweetness with minimal effort!
Candied Blood Orange Slices with Dark Chocolate Variations
Customize your candied treats with these delightful twists that will excite your taste buds and elevate your creation!
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Different Citrus: Swap blood oranges for regular oranges, lemons, or even grapefruit for unique flavors and colors. Each fruit brings its own personality to the candy, delighting your palate with a fresh taste.
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Spiced Syrup: Stir in cinnamon, ginger, or even a hint of nutmeg to the syrup for a warm, aromatic touch. This adds cozy warmth, making your treats reminiscent of spiced holiday treats.
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Fruit Juice Glaze: Replace water with pomegranate or orange juice in the syrup for an even fruitier kick. The juice infuses the oranges with extra dimension, creating a juicy burst alongside the chocolate.
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Alternative Sweeteners: Experiment with maple syrup or agave nectar instead of light corn syrup for a different sweetness profile. This might lend a subtle flavor twist while still achieving that lovely candy texture.
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Chocolate Variety: Try using milk chocolate or even white chocolate for a sweeter option. Each chocolate type complements the orange differently, offering a delightful surprise in every bite.
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Nutty Addition: Sprinkle crushed nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, over the chocolate before it sets. This introduces a delightful crunch, enhancing the texture and making a beautiful presentation.
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Heat Factor: Drizzle with a little cayenne or chili powder to infuse a sweet-heat contrast. This daring twist will leave taste buds dancing with excitement!
Enjoy these variations as you embrace your creativity and make this recipe your own!
What to Serve with Candied Blood Orange Slices with Dark Chocolate?
As you create these stunning slices, consider pairing them with complementary delights that elevate your festive meal.
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Cheese Plate: A selection of creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese balances the sweet-tart profiles beautifully, creating a rich contrast.
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Sparkling Wine: The effervescence of sparkling wine enhances the citrus brightness, making each sip feel festive and refreshing alongside the candy.
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Dark Chocolate Fondue: For extra indulgence, serve a warm chocolate fondue for dipping! It creates a unique flavor experience, fostering a “dipped plus dipped” moment.
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Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy, nutty trail mix adds texture and a wholesome touch, balancing the sweet candied oranges’ richness.
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Fruit Salad: A bright fruit salad with berries and mint provides freshness, cleansing the palate between bites of decadent chocolate-covered oranges.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream is heavenly with chocolate, adding creaminess that melds perfectly with the tangy orange flavors.
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Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea rounds off the meal nicely, offering warmth and calming flavors after your sweet indulgence.
Each of these delightful pairings accentuates the scrumptiousness of Candied Blood Orange Slices with Dark Chocolate, enriching the whole experience!
Candied Blood Orange Slices with Dark Chocolate Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe blood oranges?
When selecting blood oranges, look for those that are firm and free from blemishes or soft spots. The skin should have a vibrant hue, indicating ripeness. If you notice any dark spots all over, it’s best to avoid them, as they may be overripe.
How do I store candied blood orange slices?
Chocolate-dipped slices should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, separated by layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can last up to 2-3 weeks, maintaining their delightful flavor and texture. For unchocolate-covered slices, keep them in a room-temperature airtight container for up to 1 week.
Can I freeze candied blood orange slices?
Absolutely! For freezing, arrange the chocolate-dipped slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or bag, where they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator before serving!
What should I do if my candied slices are too sticky?
If your candied slices feel sticky, they may not have dried long enough. After candying, ensure to let them air-dry on a cooling rack for at least 24 hours. If they are still tacky after this time, you can let them dry for a bit longer. A dry, cool environment can help reduce stickiness.
Are there any allergies I should be aware of with this recipe?
Certainly! The main allergens in these Candied Blood Orange Slices with Dark Chocolate are citrus (blood oranges) and chocolate, which may contain dairy, soy, or nuts depending on the brand. Always check the labels if you’re preparing these for individuals with allergies, and consider using dairy-free chocolate if necessary.
Can I use a different type of chocolate for dipping?
Yes, you can certainly experiment with different chocolate varieties! While 72% dark chocolate is preferred for a balanced flavor, semisweet or even white chocolate can provide delightful alternatives. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, offering a new twist on this beloved treat.
Indulge in Candied Blood Orange Slices with Dark Chocolate
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Oranges: Trim the ends of the blood oranges and slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds, taking care to remove any seeds.
- Make Simple Syrup: In a deep skillet, combine the granulated sugar, water, and light corn syrup. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly until dissolved and boiling.
- Candy the Oranges: Gently add the orange slices to the syrup in a single layer. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour until translucent.
- Dry Slices: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the candied orange slices onto a cooling rack. Allow them to dry for at least 24 hours.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt bittersweet chocolate in the microwave at medium power, stirring every 15 seconds until smooth.
- Dip and Set: Dip the dried orange slices halfway into the melted chocolate and place them on parchment paper. Sprinkle Maldon salt if desired.