Drying orange slices takes very little effort and gives beautiful results. Whether you use them in tea, as decoration, or in a fragrant simmer pot — dried orange slices are a timeless classic. And when dried at the right temperature, they keep their gorgeous orange color.

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Which oranges are best for drying?

Not all oranges dry the same way.
Here are a few tips:

Thin skin → best result
Oranges with a thinner peel dry more evenly and give crisp, vibrant rounds.

Navel and blood oranges work great too
Blood oranges even add a stunning reddish edge.

Organic or well-washed
If you plan to use your dried slices in tea or food, choose organic oranges or wash them thoroughly with a little baking soda.

For decoration only
Then you can be a bit less precise — small cracks or a thicker peel are no problem at all.

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Why do orange slices turn brown?

During drying, orange slices can turn brown — usually a sign that the temperature was too high.
To prevent this, dry them at 140°F (60°C). That way, they keep their beautiful color and natural flavor.

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You’ll need

• Oranges
• A sharp knife or mandoline
• A dehydrator or oven with a drying function
• (Optional) baking soda for cleaning

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Preparation

Scrub the oranges thoroughly.
If you plan to use them in tea or recipes, clean them extra well or choose organic ones.
For decoration, you can be a bit more relaxed.

Dry the oranges well — the drier they start, the faster and more evenly they’ll dry.

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Slicing the oranges

Cut even slices about ⅛ inch (3–4 mm) thick. Use a sharp knife so you don’t crush the fruit while cutting.

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Drying

Arrange the slices in a single layer on a rack.

In a dehydrator:

• Temperature: 140°F (60°C)
• Time: 14–16 hours
• Flip halfway through if needed

In the oven:

• Temperature: 140°F (60°C) with the door slightly open
• Check regularly
• Flip every 2–3 hours
• Total time: about 6–8 hours, depending on your oven

When are they done?
Dried orange slices are completely firm and brittle — you can easily snap them. They shouldn’t feel chewy like some other fruits.

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Storage

Store the dried slices in an airtight jar, ideally in a cool, dark place.
They’ll last for several months.

If you use them for decoration, remember that dried citrus can slowly absorb moisture from the air again. You can:

• Redry them briefly if needed, or
• Simply make a fresh batch every year

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What can you do with dried orange slices?

In tea
Dried orange slices are delicious in:

• Ginger–orange tea
• Winter tea with cinnamon
• Homemade herbal blends

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As decoration

Dried orange slices are perfect for:

• Christmas wreaths
• Table decorations
• Gift tags
• Ornaments with cinnamon sticks and star anise
• Garlands with pine branches

They add a warm, natural, rustic look to any decor.

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In a simmer pot

A simmer pot (or stovetop potpourri) fills your home with the most wonderful scent.

Lovely combinations:

• Cinnamon + cloves + star anise
• Rosemary + pine needles
• Ginger + cardamom
• Apple slices + orange + vanilla

Let it simmer gently and fill your home with seasonal comfort.

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In the kitchen

Use dried orange slices:

• As edible decorations on cakes or tarts
• In mulled wine or warm apple cider
• In homemade potpourri
• In cocktails or mocktails
• In a linen sachet to freshen up drawers

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Frequently Asked Questions about Dried Orange Slices

How long do dried orange slices last?
If properly dried and stored in an airtight container, orange slices will keep for at least six months. Store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid humid environments to prevent mold.

Can you dry other citrus fruits the same way?
Absolutely! Lemon, lime, and grapefruit slices dry beautifully too. You can even make a colorful citrus mix that looks and smells wonderful.

Why did my orange slices turn dark?
Darkening usually happens when the temperature is too high or the slices are left in too long. The natural sugars start to caramelize, which causes browning. Keep your oven at a low temperature (around 140°F / 60°C) and flip the slices regularly for best results.

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In short

Dried orange slices are simple to make, beautiful to look at, and endlessly versatile.
With just one or two oranges, you can create a whole batch that brings warmth and color into your home.

Get creative, start drying, and enjoy the cozy scent and beauty of oranges all around you!

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