Candied Grapefruit Peel: How to Make This Sweet
Turn leftover grapefruit rinds into sweet, chewy, citrusy candied grapefruit peels! 🍊✨ This old-fashioned treat is zesty, slightly tangy, and coated in sugar for the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you snack on them, use them in baked goods, or dip them in chocolate, these homemade candied peels are an easy and delicious way to reduce waste and enjoy a gourmet treat!
Ingredients
- Grapefruit rinds – Thick-skinned grapefruits work best for firm chewy peels.
- White sugar – Adds sweetness and helps preserve the peels.
- Water – Used for boiling the peels and making the sugar syrup.
Instructions
Prepare the Peels:
- Quarter the grapefruit and remove the rinds.
- Slice into ¼-inch wide strips.
Boil to Remove Bitterness:
- Place peels in a saucepan, cover with 2 inches of water, and bring to a boil.
- Boil for 3 minutes, then drain.
- Repeat this process 3 more times with fresh water each time.
Candy the Peels:
- Return peels to the saucepan and add 1 ¾ cups sugar and 1 cup fresh water.
- Simmer slowly for about 1 hour until the syrup is absorbed and the peels become translucent.
Coat in Sugar & Dry:
- Toss warm peels in remaining 1 cup sugar until fully coated.
- Lay them on wax paper or a wire rack to dry.
- Once fully dry, enjoy!
Notes
- Don’t Skip the Boiling Steps! – This removes bitterness, ensuring a perfectly sweet & tangy balance.
- Slice Evenly – Ensures uniform texture and even cooking.
- Let Them Dry Completely – This prevents stickiness when storing.
- Try Dipping in Chocolate! – For a gourmet touch, dip peels in melted dark chocolate.