Candied Grapefruit Peel

If you’re looking for a unique and delightful treat, look no further than this candied grapefruit peel recipe! Turning those often-overlooked grapefruit peels into a sweet snack is not only a fun kitchen project, but it also helps reduce food waste. This recipe is one of my favorites because it combines the natural bitterness of grapefruit with a sugary sweetness that makes it irresistible. Whether you’re snacking on them solo or using them in your favorite baked goods, candied grapefruit peel is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings with friends and family.

Imagine serving these vibrant, sugary strips at your next brunch or holiday get-together! They add a touch of elegance to any dessert table and are sure to impress your guests. Plus, making them at home means you can enjoy this treat whenever the craving strikes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just three simple ingredients, you’ll be surprised at how straightforward this recipe is!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and tangy flavor—perfect for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These treats can be made in advance and stored for months, making them ideal for busy schedules.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy them on their own or use them to elevate other recipes, such as cakes or cookies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This candied grapefruit peel recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have on hand. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Candied Peel

• 3 large grapefruit (preferably organic)
• 3 cups filtered water (plus extra for blanching)
• 3 cups granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or what you have available. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add Spice: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the sugar coating for an extra kick.
• Citrus Mix: Use a mix of citrus peels like oranges or lemons along with grapefruit for a colorful candy medley.
• Chocolate Dip: Dip the cooled candied peels in dark chocolate for an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist.
• Sugar Swap: Experiment with coconut sugar or honey as a substitute for granulated sugar to give the candy a unique flavor.

How to Make Candied Grapefruit Peel

Step 1: Prepare the Grapefruit Peels

Start by washing your grapefruit thoroughly. This step is important because you want to remove any wax or pesticides from the skin. Once cleaned, cut the grapefruits into quarters and carefully remove the flesh from the peels. Don’t worry about being perfect; just try to leave as much white pith attached as possible since it adds flavor!

Step 2: Blanch the Peels

Place the peeled grapefruit sections in a pot and cover them with filtered water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Blanching helps reduce some of that bitter taste while softening the peels. Drain the peels after boiling and rinse them under cold water.

Step 3: Candying Process

In another pot, combine 3 cups of fresh filtered water with 3 cups of granulated sugar. Stir until dissolved, then add in your blanched peels. Simmer over low heat for about 45-60 minutes until they become translucent and slightly sticky. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Drying and Coating

Once cooked, use tongs to remove each peel from the syrup and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly. While they are still tacky, roll each piece in granulated sugar until well coated. This adds sweetness and helps preserve your delicious candied grapefruit peel!

Step 5: Store Your Treats

Let the sugared peels dry completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can last up to several weeks if stored properly—though I doubt they will last that long once everyone gets a taste! Enjoy your homemade candied grapefruit peel as a snack or use it as an ingredient in other recipes!

Pro Tips for Making Candied Grapefruit Peel

Making candied grapefruit peel is not only fun but also a great way to minimize food waste. Here are some tips to ensure your candy turns out perfectly!

• Choose Organic Grapefruit: Using organic grapefruit can enhance the flavor and quality of your candy, as they are less likely to have pesticide residues that could alter the taste.
• Blanching is Key: Blanching the peels in boiling water before candying helps to remove some of the bitterness, making them more enjoyable to eat. It’s an essential step for achieving that sweet, balanced flavor.
• Adjust Sugar Levels: Feel free to experiment with sugar quantities; if you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar slightly during the cooking process. Remember, your palate is unique!
• Store in an Airtight Container: Once cooled and dried, store your candied grapefruit peel in an airtight container. This will help maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming too sticky.
• Consider Flavor Infusions: For a twist on tradition, try adding spices or extracts (like vanilla or cinnamon) during cooking. This can create a delightful complexity that elevates your candy.

How to Serve Candied Grapefruit Peel

Candied grapefruit peel can be enjoyed in various ways, whether as a standalone snack or incorporated into dishes for added flair. Here are some creative ideas on how to serve this delightful treat!

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of chopped almonds or pistachios adds a crunchy texture that complements the chewy sweetness of the candied peel.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves on top provide a refreshing contrast and brighten up your presentation.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling dark chocolate over the candied peels can create an indulgent dessert that beautifully balances sweetness with richness.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer candied grapefruit peel with Greek yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit for a nutritious breakfast or snack that’s both filling and satisfying.
• Savory Cheese Platter: Pair your candied peel with soft cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese. The tanginess of the cheese contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness of the candy.
• Mixed Green Salad: Toss some candied grapefruit peel into a mixed green salad with nuts and vinaigrette for a surprising burst of flavor that elevates your greens.
• Oatmeal or Porridge Topping: Sprinkle candied grapefruit peel over warm oatmeal or porridge for a cheerful morning boost that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.

Enjoy experimenting with these serving suggestions, and remember—there’s no right or wrong way to savor your delicious candied grapefruit peel!

Make Ahead and Storage

This candied grapefruit peel recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat while reducing food waste. You can easily store or freeze the peels for future snacking or baking adventures.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the candied grapefruit peel in an airtight container.
• Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Enjoy it within two weeks for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Allow the candied grapefruit peel to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours.
• Transfer the frozen peels to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.

Reheating

• If desired, you can gently reheat the candied grapefruit peel in a warm oven (around 200°F) for about 5-10 minutes.
• This will help restore some of its original texture if it becomes too soft after freezing.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making candied grapefruit peel.

What is candied grapefruit peel used for?

Candied grapefruit peel is versatile! It can be enjoyed as a sweet snack, added to baked goods like cakes and cookies, or used as a garnish for desserts.

How do I make candied grapefruit peel?

To make candied grapefruit peel, you’ll need large grapefruit peels, sugar, and water. The process involves blanching the peels and simmering them in a sugar syrup until they become tender and sweet.

Can I customize my candied grapefruit peel recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different sugars like brown sugar or add spices such as cinnamon or vanilla for an extra flavor twist.

How long does candied grapefruit peel last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, it can last up to two weeks. If frozen, it will maintain its quality for about three months.

Final Thoughts

I hope this candied grapefruit peel recipe inspires you to create something truly delightful! Not only does it transform what would be waste into a delicious treat, but it’s also a fun project that fills your kitchen with sweet aromas. Enjoy making this recipe and share it with friends and family — they’ll love it just as much as you will!