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Dried Citrus Slices Recipe

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3.9 from 9 reviews

A vibrant and flavorful recipe for dried citrus slices, perfect for garnishing cocktails, enhancing baked goods, or blending into citrus sugar. This easy-to-make delicacy uses a variety of citrus fruits baked slowly at low temperature until crisp and moisture-free.

Ingredients

Citrus Fruits

  • 2 Lemons (cut into 1/4 inch slices)
  • 2 Limes (cut into 1/4 inch slices)
  • 1 Blood orange (cut into 1/4 inch slices)
  • 1 Cara Cara Orange (cut into 1/4 inch slices)
  • 1 Navel Orange (cut into 1/4 inch slices)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 200°F and ensure it is set to convection mode. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set aside to prepare for drying the citrus slices.
  2. Slice the citrus: Using a mandoline or a very sharp knife, carefully slice all the citrus fruits into slices no thicker than 1/4 inch. Thicker slices will require longer baking times.
  3. Arrange and bake: Lay the citrus slices out evenly on the parchment-lined tray. Bake in the preheated oven for 3 to 6 hours, depending on the type and size of the citrus. Lemons and limes will dry fastest, followed by oranges, with grapefruit taking the longest.
  4. Flip and rotate: After about 2 hours, carefully flip each citrus slice so the side previously touching the parchment is now facing up. Also, rotate the baking tray so that slices previously closest to the oven door are moved toward the back to ensure even drying. Repeat flipping and rotating every 2 hours as necessary.
  5. Check for dryness and cool: Once the citrus slices are completely dry with no moisture and feel brittle to the touch, remove them from the oven. Let the dried citrus cool completely on the tray before storing or using.
  6. Use the dried citrus: Enjoy your dried citrus slices as elegant cocktail garnishes, toppings for baked goods, or blend them into citrus sugar for added flavor in various recipes.

Notes

  • Using a mandoline ensures even thickness for consistent drying.
  • Keep slices thin to reduce drying time.
  • Flipping and rotating during baking prevents uneven drying and browning.
  • Dried citrus can be stored in an airtight container for several weeks.
  • Perfect for decorating desserts or enhancing drinks.