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We love oranges in our household. And when oranges are in season, we keep plenty of them stacked and readily available for everyone to enjoy. But what I love most about oranges is their versatility – you can preserve them and extend their lifespan by dehydrating them.

Dried oranges offer a range of uses beyond just snacking. It provides an alternate way to consume and use them. They make great garnishes, decorations, and so much more.

Here’s a simple guide on how to dry orange slices at home.

Ingredients for Dehydrated Orange Slices

Orange Slices
Air Fryer or Oven
Parchment Paper
Wire Cooling Rack
Cutting Board
Knife

Drying Orange Slices in an Air Fryer

Start by slicing your orange into thin pieces, using a sharp knife for precision.

Lightly pat dry the orange slices with a clean towel or paper towel to help remove some of the juice.
Line the base of the air fryer with parchment paper.
Arrange the orange slices on top of parchment paper, making sure they’re spread out evenly and not overlapping. It’s important to give them space to allow for proper airflow.

Set your air fryer to 180°F and let the orange slices cook for about an hour and a half. Remember to flip them over every 30 minutes to ensure even drying.
Once they’re done, transfer the dried orange slices to a wire cooling rack or a baking tray to cool completely. Let them cool for about 10-15 minutes. Once they are cool, they will feel hard and firm to the touch and no longer sticky.

And there you have it! Your dried orange slices are ready to be enjoyed in your favorite recipes or as a tasty snack.

How to Dry Orange Slices in an Oven

Spread your orange slices out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Heat the oven to 200 F and then bake the orange slices for three hours until they’re completely dry.
Flip the orange slices every half hour to allow an even distribution of heat and avoid excessive curling of the edges.

What Are Dehydrated Orange Slices Good For?

There are a number of things you can do with dried orange slices. Here are a few ways you can use it:

Use it as garnish on your favorite cocktail or nonalcoholic drink.
Add it to your savory dishes like roasted meats or fish. They add a pop of color and a hint of citrus flavor.
Make a delicious orange citrus tea.
Enjoy dehydrated orange slices as a delicious and nutritious snack. They’re perfect for satisfying a sweet craving while providing vitamins and fiber.
Chop dehydrated orange slices into small pieces and add them to baked goods such as muffins, scones, cakes, and cookies. They’ll infuse your baked treats with a sweet and tangy orange flavor.
Incorporate dehydrated orange slices into homemade trail mix along with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit for a tasty and energizing snack.
Make a festive holiday Christmas garland and other holiday decor.
Drop a few dehydrated orange slices into a pitcher of water or a cup of hot tea to add a subtle citrus flavor without the extra sweetness of juice or syrup.
Chop or crumble dehydrated orange slices and sprinkle them over salads to add a bright, refreshing citrus element.
Package dehydrated orange slices in decorative jars or bags to give as homemade gifts during the holidays or special occasions. They make a thoughtful and flavorful present for friends and family.

Customizations

Although this guide focuses on drying oranges, feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits such as lime, grapefruit, and lemon.

For added flavor, consider sprinkling a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg on the oranges before drying.

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How to Store Dehydrated Orange Peels

When storing, put the dried orange slices in a sealed container or zip-lock bag. Keep them in the fridge or a cool, dark spot in your pantry to keep them fresh and colorful for longer.

How long will dry orange peels last?

To ensure your orange slices have a long shelf life, it’s crucial to remove all moisture and thoroughly dry them. Dried Orange slices can last for years, especially if you use them for decoration. But if you plan to use it in recipes or as a garnish, it’s best to use it within a year for the best taste.

How long does it take to dehydrate an orange slice?

Typically, drying orange slices in the air fryer takes around an hour and a half. However, if you cut your slices on the thicker side, they might require a bit more time to fully dehydrate.

Do you peel oranges before dehydrating?

No, there is no need to peel your oranges before dehydrating. All you have to do is wash your oranges and then thinly slice them to prepare them for the air fryer.