These Chocolate Dipped Orange Slices are a delightful blend of naturally sweet citrus and rich dark chocolate, making them a guilt-free treat.
Packed with fiber and antioxidants from fresh oranges and heart-healthy fats from dark chocolate, they’re a smart snack or elegant appetizer.
Quick to prepare and perfect for everyday indulgence, they elevate any snack or dessert table.
Chocolate Dipped Orange Slices
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot
- 1 Wire Rack
- 1 Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- 1 double boiler or heatproof bowl
- Tongs or fork for dipping
Ingredients
- 2 medium oranges
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 ounces dark chocolate
Instructions
- Prepare the Oranges: Wash the oranges thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt, wax, or residues. Trim both ends of each orange and discard them. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the oranges into even ¼-inch thick rounds, ensuring the slices are uniform for even cooking.
- Make the Simple Syrup: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine 2 cups of water with 2 cups of granulated sugar. Place over medium-high heat and stir occasionally until the sugar is fully dissolved and the liquid begins to shimmer. This creates a smooth simple syrup that will candy the orange slices evenly.
- Cook the Orange Slices: Once the syrup reaches a gentle boil, carefully add the prepared orange slices to the pot in a single layer if possible. Reduce the heat to medium-low so the liquid barely simmers. Allow the slices to cook slowly, turning them gently at least once during cooking to ensure they become translucent on all sides. This process typically takes 40–60 minutes depending on the thickness and size of the slices.
- Cool and Dry the Oranges: Using tongs or a slotted spoon, carefully remove the orange slices from the syrup. Arrange them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Make sure slices are not overlapping to allow air circulation. Leave them to cool completely for at least 2 hours, or for best results, allow them to dry overnight until firm to the touch.
- Melt the Chocolate: Set up a double boiler or a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Add the dark chocolate (3 ounces) to the bowl and gently stir as it melts, ensuring it does not overheat or burn. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely smooth, shiny, and fluid.
- Dip the Orange Slices: Holding each cooled orange slice by the edges, dip half of it into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip back into the bowl. Place the dipped slices carefully on a parchment-lined baking sheet or silicone mat, ensuring the chocolate-coated side is facing up.
- Harden the Chocolate: Let the chocolate set at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or until firm to the touch. For quicker results, you may refrigerate the slices for 15–20 minutes, but be mindful that condensation may form if stored immediately in a cold environment.
- Store and Enjoy: Once the chocolate has fully hardened, store the chocolate-dipped orange slices in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 1 week or refrigerated for up to a month. Serve as an elegant snack, a cocktail garnish, or a sweet addition to dessert platters.
Notes
- Use fresh, firm oranges with thin skin for the best candying results. Thick-skinned oranges can take longer to become translucent and may have a slightly bitter peel.
- Slice oranges evenly, about ¼-inch thick, so they cook uniformly and candy consistently.
- Monitor the syrup closely during cooking; it should barely simmer, not boil vigorously, to prevent caramelization or burning.
- Dark chocolate with 60–70% cocoa content provides a rich, slightly bitter contrast to the natural sweetness of the oranges. Avoid overly sweet chocolate, which can overpower the citrus flavor.
- Patience is key: letting the orange slices dry fully before dipping ensures a clean chocolate coating and longer shelf life.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Candying
To achieve perfectly candied oranges, cook the slices slowly in a gentle syrup rather than rushing the process.
Low, even heat allows the fruit to gradually become translucent while retaining its shape and vibrant color.
When melting chocolate, avoid overheating to prevent a grainy texture; stirring constantly over a double boiler ensures smooth, glossy coverage.
For extra flair, lightly sprinkle the chocolate-dipped edges with finely chopped nuts, sea salt, or orange zest for enhanced flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions For Elegant Presentation
Chocolate-dipped orange slices make a versatile treat suitable for a variety of occasions.
Serve them as a sophisticated cocktail garnish, alongside coffee or tea, or on a dessert platter with cookies and chocolates.
They also pair beautifully with sparkling wine, dark chocolate truffles, or fresh berries for an eye-catching, elegant dessert board.
Arrange them on a decorative plate, spacing each slice slightly to showcase the chocolate-dipped half.
Storage Tips To Maintain Freshness
Store fully cooled chocolate-dipped orange slices in an airtight container to maintain crispness and prevent moisture from softening the chocolate.
Room temperature storage is ideal for up to 1 week; refrigeration extends shelf life to a month but may cause slight condensation if not sealed properly.
For long-term storage, freeze the slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other citrus fruits instead of oranges?
Yes! Mandarins, tangerines, or blood oranges can work well. Choose fruits with firm flesh and peel for the best results. Adjust cooking time slightly based on size and thickness.
2. What type of chocolate works best?
Use dark chocolate with 60–70% cocoa for a balance of richness and slight bitterness. Semi-sweet or milk chocolate can be used, but may make the dessert sweeter and softer.
3. How do I know when the oranges are ready?
The slices should become translucent and tender but not mushy. Test by gently pressing with a fork; they should hold their shape while being slightly pliable.
4. Can I make these in advance for a party?
Absolutely. The slices can be made a day or two ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. This also allows the chocolate to fully set and flavors to meld.
5. Can I add extra flavorings to the syrup?
Yes, subtle spices like cinnamon sticks, star anise, or a splash of vanilla extract can be added to the syrup for a unique twist. Add them at the beginning of the simmering process for best infusion.
