How to Dry Orange Slices in the Oven (for Garlands, Gifts and Decor)

Dried orange slices are the prettiest (and cheapest) way to decorate for the holidays. String them into a garland, tie them onto gifts, float them in a cocktail or drop them into a simmer pot. Here's exactly how to dry orange slices in the oven, plus our favorite ways to use them.

How to dry orange slices in the oven

You'll need

• 3 to 4 navel oranges (blood oranges and lemons work too)
• A sharp knife or mandoline
• Paper towels or a clean kitchen towel
• Baking sheets lined with parchment paper (a wire rack on top is even better)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C).
2. Slice the oranges into even rounds about ¼ inch thick. Even slices dry evenly.
3. Blot both sides with paper towels to remove as much juice as possible. This is the secret to bright, unbrowned slices.
4. Arrange the slices in a single layer on parchment or a wire rack.
5. Bake for 3 to 4 hours, flipping every hour, until the slices are dry to the touch and slightly translucent.
6. Cool completely on the rack. They'll crisp up as they cool.

Troubleshooting

• Browning? Your oven runs hot. Lower the temperature and prop the door open slightly.
• Still sticky? Give them another 30 to 60 minutes, or let them air-dry on a rack for a day.
• Curling? Flip more often, or bake them on a rack sandwiched under a second rack.

8 ways to use dried orange slices

1. Dried orange garland for the tree, mantel or window
2. Gift toppers tied on with twine
3. Christmas tree ornaments
4. Wreath accents
5. Cocktail and mocktail garnishes
6. Tablescapes and place settings
7. Simmer pots (see our simmer pot recipes)
8. A slice in a mug of tea

Short on time? Buy them ready to go

Drying oranges takes an afternoon, and getting perfect wheels takes practice. Our Premium Dried Orange Slices and Dried Lemon Slices are hand-sliced, hand-dried and sorted so you get beautiful, even wheels for your projects. Choose packs of 12 to 50.

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