Candied Orange Peel Sweet Twists

Name: Candied Orange Peel Sweet Twists
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 twists
Ingredients: 2 large oranges; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup water; 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Additional granulated sugar for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking

I absolutely adore making Candied Orange Peel Sweet Twists, as they bring a delightful burst of citrus flavor to any occasion. The combination of crisp pastry and sweet, zesty orange peel makes for an irresistible treat. I find that the key to perfecting these twists lies in the refreshing balance of sweetness and slightly bitter citrus, which creates a wonderful contrast. These treats are not only visually stunning but also encapsulate the essence of spring in every bite, making them perfect for gatherings or as a sweet indulgence for myself.

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-14T15:58:19.224Z

I've experimented with various ways to make candied orange peel, and I discovered that simmering the peels slowly in sugar syrup yields the best results. This method also keeps the peels soft and chewy, just like I love them. When I drape the orange peels over twisted pastry, it transforms the ordinary into something extraordinary.

To enhance flavor, I sometimes add a hint of vanilla or a splash of orange liqueur to the sugar syrup. This little twist elevates the taste and makes these sweet twists even more delightful, leaving my friends and family asking for the recipe every time!

        Why You'll Love These Sweet Twists
        Bright citrus flavor that pairs perfectly with crispy pastry
Chewy textures with a hint of sweetness
Perfect for parties or as a refreshing treat

      

Mastering the Candied Orange Peel

Candying the orange peel is the heart of this recipe, as it transforms the peels into a luscious, sweet treat that contrasts beautifully with the crisp pastry. It's essential to simmer the peel until it becomes translucent, indicating that the sugars have penetrated fully. If the peels are overcooked, they may become tough instead of tender, so keep an eye on them and remove them from the heat as soon as they reach that beautiful, glossy state.

When slicing the orange peels, aim for even strips approximately a quarter-inch wide to ensure uniform cooking. This uniformity helps all pieces absorb the syrup evenly, yielding a consistent texture and flavor in every bite. If you find yourself with excess syrup after candying, consider saving it to drizzle over desserts or as a sweetener for teas.

Perfecting the Puff Pastry

Choosing high-quality puff pastry is crucial for achieving the right flaky texture in these sweet twists. Look for all-butter puff pastry for richer flavor and better browning. When rolling the pastry, be intentional about not overworking it, which can lead to a tougher end result. A light touch with the rolling pin will help maintain those precious layers, ensuring a light and airy texture upon baking.

For an added burst of flavor, consider sprinkling a pinch of sea salt over the sugar before baking. This contrast amplifies the sweetness while enhancing the overall citrus experience. Remember to watch those twists closely during baking; they should emerge from the oven with a golden hue and a delightful aroma, typically after 20-25 minutes at 400°F.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious twists!

For the Candied Orange Peel

2 large oranges
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup water

For the Pastry Twists

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Additional granulated sugar for sprinkling

Once you have your ingredients ready, you’re set to create these delightful treats!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Candied Orange Peel Sweet Twists.

Prepare the Orange Peel

Begin by washing the oranges thoroughly. Cut the oranges into quarters and remove the inner fruit, leaving just the peel. Slice the peels into thin strips.

Candy the Orange Peel

In a saucepan, combine the orange peel, sugar, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peels become translucent. Remove from heat and drain, reserving the syrup.

Prepare Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into strips about 1 inch wide. Take the candied orange peels and place a few pieces on one end of each strip. Twist the pastry around the peels.

Bake the Twists

Place the twisted pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Candied Orange Peel Sweet Twists!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle some of the reserved sugar syrup over the warm twists before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Candied Orange Peel Sweet Twists can be made ahead of time and stored for a few days. Allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature. If layers start to stick together, consider placing parchment paper between them to maintain their crispiness. They are best enjoyed fresh, but can still be delightful for several days.

If you wish to freeze them, ensure they are fully cooled and then layer them between sheets of parchment in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their flakiness.

Flavor Variations

While the traditional candied orange peel is delightful, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like lemon or grapefruit for varied flavors. Just adjust the sugar as needed, as different fruits can have varying levels of natural sweetness. Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar for the egg wash can also infuse autumnal warmth into your twists.

For a more decadent twist, you might consider drizzling melted chocolate over your finished twists or even dipping half of each twist in chocolate. This addition pairs fantastically with the citrus and creates an indulgent treat that elevates this recipe for special occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use lemon peels instead of orange?

Yes, you can use lemon peels to create a similar candied treat, though the flavor will be more tart.

→ How can I store the sweet twists?

Store the twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

→ Can I make the orange peel ahead of time?

Absolutely! The candied orange peel can be made a few days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What else can I do with the candied orange peel?

You can use them as a garnish for desserts, chop them up and add them to baked goods, or enjoy them as a sweet snack!