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A pile of vibrant, homemade dried orange slices resting on a metal cooling rack with a glass jar nearby on an orange background.

Perfectly Dried Orange Slices (Oven Method)

Transform fresh oranges into beautiful, fragrant dried slices using a simple oven method. Ideal for snacking, garnishing cocktails and desserts, or adding a festive touch to holiday decorations.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Course: Garnish, Ingredient, Snack
Cuisine: General
Calories: 100

Ingredients
  

  • 4-6 large oranges navel or valencia are recommended for fewer seeds

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Paper Towels

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to the lowest possible setting, typically around 200°F (95°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Wash the oranges thoroughly under cold running water and dry them completely with a clean towel.
  3. Using a very sharp knife, slice the oranges into uniform rounds, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch (3-6mm) thick. Thinner slices will dry faster and become crispier, while slightly thicker slices will remain a bit more chewy. Discard the end pieces and remove any visible seeds.
  4. Lay the orange slices out on paper towels in a single layer. Gently pat the top of the slices with more paper towels to remove as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial for faster and more even drying.
Drying Process
  1. Arrange the patted-dry orange slices on the prepared baking sheets in a single layer, ensuring none of them overlap. Give them a little space for air circulation.
  2. Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 2 to 4 hours. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your slices and your oven's efficiency.
  3. Flip the orange slices every 60 minutes to ensure even drying and prevent them from sticking to the parchment paper. Continue baking until the slices feel dry, slightly leathery, and firm to the touch. They should still have some pliability but not feel moist.
  4. Once they reach the desired dryness, turn off the oven and leave the orange slices inside with the oven door slightly ajar for another 30-60 minutes, or until the oven cools completely. This helps them crisp up further and ensures all moisture is gone.
Cooling and Storage
  1. Remove the dried orange slices from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will crisp up even more as they cool.

Notes

Store dried orange slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 weeks, or longer if stored in a cool, dark place. They are excellent for snacking, as a garnish for cocktails or hot tea, or for decorative purposes in wreaths and garlands. This recipe yields approximately 8-10 slices per serving.