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Sweet, chewy, and perfectly balanced with crunch, this candied orange peel trail mix is an elevated take on a classic snack. Bright citrus pieces pair with nuts, seeds, and chocolate for a mix that feels gourmet but is totally snackable. It’s great for road trips, workday munching, or packaging up as a homemade gift.
Equipment Needed
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Airtight container or snack-size bags
Tips
• Chop candied orange peel into bite-size pieces for even distribution
• Balance sweet and salty elements to keep the mix from tasting too sugary
• Use raw or lightly roasted nuts for better texture
• Dark chocolate pairs especially well with citrus flavors
• Let chocolate cool completely before storing to prevent melting
• Add dried cranberries or cherries for extra tartness
• Store in an airtight container to keep everything fresh and crunchy
• This mix works well as a holiday or hostess gift when packaged in jars or bags
Candied Orange Peel Trail Mix
Description
This vibrant trail mix is a flavor-packed snack, blending the sweetness of candied orange peel with the richness of nuts. Ideal for hiking or a midday pick-me-up, it’s both nutritious and delicious!
Ingredients
Candied Orange Peel Trail Mix Ingredients
Instructions
Preparing the Candied Orange Peel
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Wash and Slice the Oranges
Begin by washing your oranges thoroughly to remove any wax or pesticides. Once clean, slice off the top and bottom of each orange, then cut the oranges into quarters and carefully remove the flesh, leaving you with just the peel.Use a sharp knife to make clean cuts. The flesh can be saved for a refreshing snack or juice! -
Boil and Soak the Peels
Place the orange peels in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Drain the peels, then repeat this process two more times. This helps to remove the bitterness from the peels.Don't skip this step—it’s crucial for achieving that sweet flavor without the bitterness! -
Candy the Peels
In a new saucepan, combine equal parts of water and sugar (about 1 cup each) over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then add the drained orange peels. Let them simmer gently for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the peels become translucent.Keep an eye on the peels so they don’t stick to the bottom. If you notice them getting too thick, add a splash of water. -
Dry and Coat the Peels
Using a slotted spoon, remove the peels from the sugar syrup and place them on a wire rack to cool and dry for several hours or overnight. Once they are tacky but not wet, toss them in granulated sugar to coat.This is where the magic happens! The sugar adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to the peels.
Assembling the Trail Mix
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Gather Your Mix-Ins
In a large mixing bowl, combine your choice of nuts (like almonds, walnuts, or pecans), seeds (such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds), and your favorite dried fruits. You can also add a handful of chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.Feel free to customize this mix based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry! -
Add the Candied Orange Peel
Chop the candied orange peels into bite-sized pieces and fold them gently into the nut and seed mixture. Make sure they’re evenly distributed for that zesty burst in every handful.The candied orange peel adds a lovely citrusy zing that balances the richness of the nuts. -
Store and Enjoy
Transfer your trail mix to an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks, or in the fridge for a longer shelf life.This trail mix is perfect for snacking on the go, or as a delightful addition to breakfast or yogurt!
Note
- Use organic oranges to avoid pesticide residues on the peel.
- Blanch the orange peels in boiling water before candying to reduce bitterness.
- For added flavor, consider infusing the simple syrup with spices such as cinnamon or star anise while candying.
- Allow the candied orange peels to dry completely for optimal texture before adding to the trail mix.
- Toast nuts and seeds lightly to enhance their natural flavors and crunch.
- Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can be added for extra sweetness and chewiness.
- For a touch of luxury, incorporate dark chocolate chips or drizzle over the trail mix after assembling.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness; it can last up to two weeks.
- Adjust the ratio of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits based on personal preference or dietary needs.
- This mix pairs wonderfully with yogurt or can be used as a topping for oatmeal or smoothie bowls.