If you’re looking for a unique, delicious treat, try making chocolate-dipped orange peels!

These are the perfect blend of sweet, slightly bitter, and rich, thanks to the combination of zesty orange peel and smooth, dark chocolate.

Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make and are a great way to reduce food waste by using up leftover orange peels

Ingredients

Peels from 3-4 oranges, cut into thin strips (white pith removed as much as possible)

1 cup sugar

1 cup water

1 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips (or finely chopped chocolate)

1 tbsp coconut oil or butter (optional)

Directions

Prepare Orange Peels:

Cut the orange peels into thin strips, about 1/4 inch wide.

Remove as much of the white pith as possible to avoid bitterness.

Blanch Peels:

Bring a small pot of water to a boil and add the orange peels. Boil for 1-2 minutes, then drain. Repeat this process twice more to reduce bitterness.

Make Simple Syrup:

In the same pot, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar. Stir and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Candy the Peels:

Add the blanched orange peels to the syrup and simmer for about 45-60 minutes, until the peels become translucent. Stir occasionally.

Dry Peels:

Remove the peels from the syrup and place on a wire rack or parchment-lined baking sheet to dry for a few hours or overnight.

Melt Chocolate:

Melt the chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler.

Dip Peels:

Dip each peel halfway into the melted chocolate. Let the excess drip off.

Set Chocolate:

Place the dipped peels on parchment paper and let them set in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes.

Serve or Store:

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.