
Making dried orange slices in my home is such a joy. They add warmth and pop to everything from holiday decor to fancy drinks. Their vibrant color transforms ordinary things into something wonderful. I always have a batch ready since they never spoil and make everything look extra special.
Why These Citrus Rounds Stand Out
You'll definitely want these dried orange rounds as a kitchen must-have. I jazz up my drinks with them and they give my baked treats something extra. When Christmas comes around, I thread them into beautiful decorations. And they stay gorgeous for months on end.
Items You'll Want
- Oranges: Choose ones you like best. For big showy pieces, naval oranges work great, while blood oranges give you stunning deep crimson slices.
Creating Your Citrus Rounds
- Prep Your Oven
- Heat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line your baking tray with parchment.
- Cut Your Fruit
- Slice them thinly at about 1/8 inch. Grab paper towels to blot them dry.
- Arrange Them
- Place your slices on the tray without letting them touch each other.
- Drying Process
- Bake for 2 to 4 hours. Turn them every hour. Keep watching so they don't get too dark.
- Cool Down
- Let them cool all the way before storing them.

My Insider Tricks
Don't take your eyes off those slices while they're drying. If they're browning too fast, lower the temperature. I really enjoy trying different orange varieties. The blood ones create those amazing reddish slices that look fabulous during the holidays.
How To Store Your Citrus Rounds
Keep your dried slices in an airtight container at room temp. They'll last up to 2 years that way. Mine stay in the pantry until I need to brighten up some decorations or recipes.
Creative Uses For Your Orange Slices
These dried rounds make anything look better. I toss them in my hot wine and sangria, dress up my orange bread, and craft lovely holiday ornaments. Sometimes I put them in potpourri around my house for that natural citrus smell.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long do they stay fresh?
You can keep dried orange slices for as long as two years if stored in an airtight container.
- → Can I try other fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to use lemons, limes, or even grapefruits as substitutes.
- → What are they used for?
Decorate, garnish drinks or desserts, spice up potpourri, or pop them into recipes. They’re versatile!
- → Do I need to remove the peel?
Nope, leave the peel on. It adds a lovely decorative touch to the slices.
- → Can I use a dehydrator?
Yes, go ahead! Just follow the specific instructions your dehydrator provides for the best results.