Air Fryer Orange Slices (Candied) – 7 Ways to Delight

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 15, 2025

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There’s something truly delightful about making candied snacks at home, and I can’t get enough of it! One of my absolute favorites is these Air Fryer Orange Slices. They’re sweet, chewy, and perfect for snacking or adding a pop of color to my dishes. Plus, the air fryer makes the whole process so easy and quick! I remember the first time I tried this recipe; I had a few oranges sitting on my counter, and I thought, “Why not transform them into something magical?” The way the oranges caramelize in the air fryer is simply enchanting, and the aroma that fills my kitchen is enough to get anyone excited. Trust me, once you try these candied orange slices, you’ll be hooked too! They’re not just a treat; they’re a little piece of sunshine that you can enjoy any time of the year.

Air Fryer Orange Slices (Candied) - detail 1

Ingredients List

To whip up these delightful Air Fryer Orange Slices, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 large oranges (thinly sliced)
1 cup sugar (granulated)
1 cup water

Make sure to slice the oranges as evenly as possible for that perfect chewy texture. This will ensure that each slice cooks uniformly and has that satisfying candy-like bite. Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Orange Slices (Candied)

Making these delightful Air Fryer Orange Slices is a breeze, and I can’t wait to share my step-by-step process with you! Follow along, and soon you’ll have a batch of sweet, chewy orange slices that are perfect for snacking or garnishing your favorite dishes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s break this down into easy-to-follow steps:

Preparing the Oranges: Start by slicing those oranges thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Trust me, the thinner they are, the better they’ll caramelize and achieve that lovely chewy texture we’re aiming for! Make sure to keep your slices even; this ensures they cook uniformly in the air fryer. I often use a sharp knife or a mandoline for this, but whatever you have on hand works just fine!
Simmering the Orange Slices: In a medium pot, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. Once it’s all mixed, gently add the sliced oranges to the pot. Let them simmer for about 10 minutes. This step infuses the oranges with sweetness and gets them ready for that delicious air frying!
Air Frying the Slices: After simmering, carefully remove the orange slices from the pot and allow them to cool slightly. Now, it’s time to place them in your air fryer! Set the temperature to 300°F and cook the slices for about 15 minutes. Don’t forget to flip them halfway through to ensure they’re evenly cooked and get that golden color we all love. Keep an eye on them near the end; each air fryer is a bit different, and you want that perfect balance of chewy and caramelized!

Once they’re done, let them cool completely before serving. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create these delightful snacks!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Air Fryer Orange Slices are more than just a tasty treat; they come with a whole bunch of benefits that make them a must-try in your kitchen! Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps and around 30 minutes, you can have these sweet snacks ready to enjoy. No long baking times here!
Healthy Snacking: These candied orange slices are a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth. They’re made with fresh fruit and can be adjusted to your preferred sweetness.
Versatile Garnish: Whether you’re topping a yogurt bowl, decorating a cake, or adding flair to cocktails, these orange slices make any dish look stunning!
Natural Ingredients: You know exactly what goes into this recipe. No preservatives or artificial flavors, just wholesome oranges and sugar!
Chewy and Delicious: The air frying method gives these slices a perfect chewy texture while caramelizing the sugars for a delightful flavor explosion in every bite.

So, go ahead and whip up a batch! You’ll see how these Air Fryer Orange Slices can elevate your snacking game and add a burst of sunshine to your day.

Tips for Success

Getting these Air Fryer Orange Slices just right is all about a few little tricks I’ve picked up along the way. Trust me, with these tips, you’ll be a pro in no time!

Adjusting Sweetness: Not a fan of overly sweet snacks? No problem! Feel free to adjust the sugar based on your preference. You can start with ¾ cup of sugar and taste the syrup before adding the orange slices. You can always add a bit more if you want it sweeter!
Even Slices Equal Even Cooking: Remember, the key to those perfectly chewy slices is in the slicing! Aim for uniform thickness, about 1/8 inch. If you have a mandoline, it’s a lifesaver for consistent slices!
Storing Your Candied Delights: Once they’re cooled, store your orange slices in an airtight container. They’ll keep for about a week on the counter or in the fridge. If you want to keep them longer, pop them in the freezer! Just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla to the syrup for a little twist. You might just discover a new favorite flavor combination!

With these tips, you’re set to make the best Air Fryer Orange Slices ever. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Section

When you’re snacking on these delightful Air Fryer Orange Slices, it’s always nice to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values for each slice:

Calories: 50
Sugar: 10g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g

Keep in mind that these values can vary a bit based on the size of your oranges and how much sugar you decide to use. But overall, these candied treats are a sweet and light snack option that you can feel good about enjoying! So go ahead, indulge a little, and savor the sunshine in every bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely! While these Air Fryer Orange Slices are a favorite, you can easily experiment with other fruits. Think about trying apples, pears, or even pineapples! Just remember that different fruits may require slight adjustments in cooking time. For instance, apples might need a bit longer to caramelize. The key is to keep the slices thin and even, just like with the oranges, so they cook uniformly. Have fun playing around with various fruits and discover your own delicious combinations!

How should I store leftover slices?

Storing your leftover Air Fryer Orange Slices is super simple! Once they’ve cooled completely, place them in an airtight container. They can sit on your kitchen counter for about a week, but if you want to keep them fresh longer, pop them in the fridge. For even extended storage, you can freeze them! Just lay them flat in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature. This way, you’ll always have a sweet treat on hand!

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Of course! One of the best parts of making your own Air Fryer Orange Slices is the ability to customize them to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet snack, start with less sugar—about ¾ cup instead of a full cup. You can taste the syrup after dissolving the sugar and decide if you want to add more. This way, you get to control the sweetness level just the way you like it, ensuring your candied slices are perfectly suited to your palate!

Serving Suggestions

These delightful Air Fryer Orange Slices are not just a treat on their own; they can elevate so many dishes with their vibrant flavor and beautiful presentation! Here are some of my favorite ways to serve them:

Yogurt Parfaits: Layer these candied orange slices in a yogurt parfait with some creamy Greek yogurt, granola, and a drizzle of honey. The combination of textures and flavors is simply divine!
Brighten Up Salads: Toss a few slices into your favorite salad for a burst of sweetness. They complement mixed greens, nuts, and crumbled cheese beautifully, creating a refreshing dish.
Cocktail Garnish: Use these air-fried beauties as a stunning garnish for cocktails. They add a pop of color and a hint of sweetness to drinks like margaritas or mojitos. Just imagine how impressive your party drinks will look!
Cheese Plates: Serve the orange slices alongside a selection of cheeses like brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar. The sweet and tangy flavors balance the richness of the cheese perfectly!
Breakfast Topping: Top your pancakes or waffles with these candied slices for a deliciously different breakfast. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra treat!

With these serving suggestions, you can enjoy your Air Fryer Orange Slices in so many delightful ways. Get creative and have fun experimenting with your favorite dishes!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover Air Fryer Orange Slices is a breeze! Once they’ve cooled completely, place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh and chewy. They can stay on your kitchen counter for about a week, but if you want to extend their shelf life, you can pop them in the fridge. Just make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent any moisture from sneaking in!

If you’re planning to keep them for a longer period, freezing is a fantastic option. Lay the slices flat in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze them for a few hours until firm. Then transfer the frozen slices into a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they won’t stick together, and you can grab just what you need later on!

When you’re ready to enjoy your candied orange slices again, there’s no complex reheating required. Simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. If you’d like them warm, you can pop them back into the air fryer at a low temperature (around 250°F) for just a few minutes to bring back that delightful chewiness. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll always have a delicious treat ready to brighten your day!