How to Make Dried Orange Slices

Dried orange slices are easy to make, smell wonderful, and can be used in so many ways!

Here's how to make your own DIY dried orange slices, plus some fun ways to use them.

Make these before the holidays and hang them on your Christmas tree for a beautiful, rustic ornament.

I love to have a bunch of dried oranges around during the holidays because they can be used as ornaments with cinnamon sticks, in festive garlands, as a garnish on holiday treats, or in potpourri.

You're going to find all sorts of great ways to use dried citrus as holiday decor! They're ridiculously easy to make, too.

This is the best way to make dried oranges because it's incredibly simple. You can also make them in a food dehydrator, but if you don't have one, this is how you make them in the oven.

Ingredients

• Fresh Oranges (any oranges will work: Navel oranges, Cara Cara oranges, tangelo, tangerine, clementine, blood oranges, or Seville oranges)
• Optional - any other types of citrus (grapefruits, lemons, limes) that you'd like
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Large Baking Sheet or Cookie Sheet (you may need multiple depending on how many slices you make)
• Parchment Paper

See the recipe card for full details.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 200 degrees F. Make sure your oven racks are in the center of the oven.

Slice oranges into ¼-inch slices with a sharp knife. Pat them with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Place citrus slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Or on a rimmed baking sheet with a wire rack.

Bake for 2 ½ to 4 hours or until the orange slices are dry.

If your citrus slices are thicker, they may need up to 4 hours in the oven.

Citrus Slices FAQs

Let us know if you have any other questions in the comments.

Can any citrus fruit be sliced and dried?

You can use any type of citrus fruits you'd like to make dried slices. They do take different amounts of time to dehydrate, though.

I haven't found anything that takes less than 2 hours at 200 degrees F (like lemons), and may take longer (like grapefruit) and may need up to 4 hours.

Keep an eye on your citrus in the oven, and check in every 30 minutes or so to ensure it's not burning. Thin slices will dehydrate much faster!

How long do dried citrus slices last?

If your orange or other citrus slices have been completely dehydrated and are no longer sticky or have any moisture, then they can last for a few years (probably three years maximum).

They have a surprisingly long shelf life but should be stored in a dry place in a sealed container.

Can you eat dried orange slices?

Yes, dried orange slices are edible! You can use them as a cocktail garnish, in baked goods, or snack on them. They're especially delicious if you sprinkle them with a little sugar.

They're one of the easiest ways to decorate a cake or other baked goods.

Do dried orange slices smell?

Yes, dry oranges make your house smell super citrusy while you bake them and have a delightful subtle scent after they've been dried.

They're wonderful added to potpourri or used in tablescapes or garlands for a citrusy scent.

Storage

Dried orange slices will last for two to three years. Store the dry orange slices in an airtight container (like a Ziploc bag) or glass jar at room temperature when they are not in use (or if they are Christmas decorations).

How to Use Oven-Dried Oranges

You can use dehydrated oranges in DIY crafts and recipes. Here are some of our favorite ways to use dried citrus for the holiday season.

• DIY Citrus and Rosemary Garland - This beautiful Christmas garland is perfect for a mantle or doorway. It's easy to make and smells great.
• DIY Citrus Wreath - a beautiful-looking and smelling wreath!
• Mandarin Orange Bundt Cake - Use dried citrus as a garnish for this beautiful cake.