why make this recipe
Dried orange slices look pretty and smell nice. They add color to gifts, wreaths, and drinks. They are easy to make at home. You can use them as snack, decoration, or a scent in your room. Try them with savory dishes like creamy sun-dried tomato chicken fettuccine for a bright touch.
introduction
This simple recipe makes thin, dry orange slices flavored with honey and juniper. The honey adds mild sweetness and a soft shine. Juniper gives a pine-like, warm note. You only need oranges, honey, and juniper plus time to dry. You can dry in the oven or a dehydrator.
how to make Gorgeous Dried Orange Slices – Honey + Juniper
Make thin, even slices. Brush with a little honey. Sprinkle crushed juniper. Dry slowly until they are firm and not sticky. Use low heat and check often. These steps keep the color and shape pretty. They pair well with warm sides like best scalloped sweet potatoes.
Ingredients :
- 3 large oranges (navel or blood)
- 2 tablespoons honey (mild flavor)
- 1 teaspoon crushed juniper berries (or 6–8 whole, lightly crushed)
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt (optional)
- Nonstick spray or a sheet of parchment paper
Directions :
- Preheat oven to 175°F (80°C). If you have a dehydrator, set to 135°F (57°C).
- Wash oranges well. Slice into 1/8–1/4 inch (3–6 mm) rounds. Try to keep slices even.
- Lay slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Do not overlap.
- Warm the honey slightly so it is thin. Brush each slice lightly on both sides. Honey helps color and shine.
- Sprinkle a small pinch of crushed juniper on each slice. Add a tiny pinch of salt, if you like.
- Place in oven. Let dry 2–4 hours. Flip every 30–45 minutes after the first hour. Times vary by oven and slice thickness.
- Slices are done when they feel dry and slightly firm, not tacky. Cool on a rack.
- If any slices are still sticky, return to oven for 15–30 minutes more.
- Store only when fully cool.
how to serve Gorgeous Dried Orange Slices – Honey + Juniper
Serve as snack with tea or cocktails. Use as garnish for cakes and cocktails. Hang on garlands or wreaths for decoration. They also add aroma and color to gift boxes.
how to store Gorgeous Dried Orange Slices – Honey + Juniper
Keep fully dry. Store in an airtight container at room temperature. Add a paper towel to absorb any extra moisture. Use within 2–4 weeks for best color. For longer life, store in a cool, dry place or in the fridge. For more storage ideas, see best sweet potato casserole (use the storage tips style).
tips to make Gorgeous Dried Orange Slices – Honey + Juniper
- Slice the oranges with a sharp knife or mandoline for even thickness.
- Do not use too much honey; a thin coat is enough.
- Crush juniper lightly so it sticks better to the slices.
- Dry at low heat to keep color and avoid browning.
- Flip slices gently so they dry evenly on both sides.
- Let them cool fully before storing to avoid condensation.
variation (if any)
- Use cinnamon or cloves instead of juniper.
- Add a light dusting of sugar before drying for sweeter slices.
- Try lemon, lime, or grapefruit for a change.
- For ornaments, thread a thin ribbon through a dried slice and hang.
FAQs
Q: Can I eat these dried orange slices? A: Yes. They are edible. They are chewy and sweet with a light juniper flavor.
Q: How thin should I slice the oranges? A: Aim for 1/8 to 1/4 inch (3–6 mm). Even thickness dries better.
Q: Can I use canned orange slices? A: No. Canned slices have added syrup and water. Fresh oranges dry best.
Q: How long do they last? A: Kept dry and in an airtight container, they stay good for 2–4 weeks. Cooler storage can extend this.
Q: Can I skip honey? A: Yes. You can dry plain slices. Honey adds shine and a warm taste.
Conclusion
For an example guide with photos, see How to Make Gorgeous Dried Orange Slices – Honey + Juniper. For notes on honey uses and ideas, visit Valcohol. If you want a juniper idea for drinks, read How to Make Your Own Gin Without a Still – Jeffrey Morgenthaler.