How to Dry Orange Slices - The Kitchen Garten

25 slices
5 hr 10 min

Are you looking to dry orange slices to use in the kitchen or in homemade decor? Learning to dry orange slices or peels is super easy, and it can be done in an oven or dehydrator!

Dried orange slices on white plate

Uses for Dried Orange Slices

Why would a person even want to dry orange slices? Great question, and other than being a good way to use up those oranges that may be a bit past their prime, but haven’t molded, what are practical uses for dried oranges?


  • Potpourri, either for dry display or stovetop warming
  • Decor– Dried orange garlands are lovely during the holidays, also great on wreaths!
  • Mulling Spices– Perfect for mulling wine or cider, the dried oranges are a perfect addition.
  • Tea Addition– Add to your hot tea for a citrus burst


All of these options also make wonderful gifts, especially in the winter when oranges are in season. (Wondering what other fruits are in season in winter? Check out my post on winter fruits!)


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Supplies for Drying Orange Slices

Drying orange slices is a pretty simple process, but here’s what you’ll need to make it happen:


  • 2-3 oranges (I prefer them to be the older ones in the fruit bowl… they’re already a little drier.)
  • Baking Sheet (I love these half sheet sizes from Nordic Ware.)
  • Parchment Paper (try this unbleached parchment paper!)
  • Sharp knife


Drying Orange Slices

  1. Begin by washing the outsides of the oranges to remove any residue or waxes that could be on them. Then using a sharp knife, begin slicing the oranges into 1/4 inch slices, or thinner if able.
Sliced orange on countertop

2. Preheat oven to the lowest temperature, usually 150 degrees or a bit higher for convection. I like to use convection for circulating the air in the oven. A dehydrator can also be used, and follow the instructions on your dehydrator for specific details.


3. Place orange slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Sliced oranges on baking sheet

4. Place orange slices in oven for 3-5 hours or until they are no longer moist in the center. Rinds will become darker and curl in slightly. Thinner sliced oranges will dry out faster, while thicker oranges will take a bit longer. Turn slices over halfway through drying out time. Once time is up, turn off oven and let orange slices sit overnight to cool and dry out further.

oranges on sheet pan in oven

5. Once orange slices have cooled, place in an airtight container until ready to use.


How to Store Dried Oranges

Well dried orange slices should last for over a year if properly stored. When not using orange slices in decor or as dry potpourri, keep them in a cool, dry place in a well sealed container. I also prefer a dark closet, where light can’t get through the container they’re stored in.


Having dried oranges on hand is wonderful for last minute decorations and good smelling gifts! Check out these other ways to create handmade Gifts from the Garden (or fruit bowl)!


I’d love to know how you use dried oranges. Leave a comment below and share with The Kitchen Garten community.



Dried oranges on a white plate

Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Commercial Baker's Half Sheet, 2-Pack, Silver

How to Dry Orange Slices - The Kitchen Garten
Recipe details
  • 25  slices
  • Prep time: 10 Minutes Cook time: 5 Hours Total time: 5 hr 10 min
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Ingredients

  • 2-3 oranges
  • parchment paper
Instructions

Begin by washing the outsides of the oranges to remove any residue or waxes that could be on them. Then using a sharp knife, begin slicing the oranges into 1/4 inch slices, or thinner if able.
Preheat oven to the lowest temperature, usually 150 degrees or a bit higher for convection. I like to use convection for circulating the air in the oven. A dehydrator can also be used, and follow the instructions on your dehydrator for specific details.
Place orange slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Place orange slices in oven for 3-5 hours or until they are no longer moist in the center. Rinds will become darker and curl in slightly. Thinner sliced oranges will dry out faster, while thicker oranges will take a bit longer. Turn slices over halfway through drying out time. Once time is up, turn off oven and let orange slices sit overnight to cool and dry out further.
Once orange slices have cooled, place in an airtight container until ready to use.
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Courtney |The Kitchen Garten
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