Looking to create stunning and natural holiday decorations or fancy drink garnishes? Learn how to dehydrate oranges with three foolproof methods – no special equipment needed! This complete guide covers everything from selecting the perfect oranges to creative ways to use your dried orange slices.

What You’ll Need to Make Perfect Dried Orange Slices

It’s so easy to dehydrate oranges. Use the tools you already have in your kitchen to make this nostalgic Christmas decor. You can dehydrate oranges in air fryers, dehydrators, or in your oven. Regardless of which appliance you use, there are a few items you will need:

• Fresh oranges (any variety)
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet, air fryer, or food dehydrator

• cutting board
• sharp knife
• parchment paper
• fresh oranges that have been washed and dried (leave the peel intact)

*** Once sliced, remove any seeds from the orange slices before you dry them.

Best Types of Oranges for Dehydrating

You can use any type of citrus – navel oranges, grapefruit, clementines, blood oranges. They will all end up a little bit different, but the contrast in colors is wonderful! Once you start dehydrating citrus, you’ll want to try all the different versions to see how they compare!

• Navel oranges: Classic choice, readily available
• Blood oranges: Creates stunning deep red slices
• Clementines: Perfect for smaller decorations
• Grapefruit: Makes larger, showstopping pieces

Pro tip: Choose firm, blemish-free oranges for the best results

3 Easy Methods to Dehydrate Oranges

1. Oven Method (Most Popular)

It’s really easy to dehydrate oranges in your oven! This also the most popular way to dehydrate them because it doesn’t take any special equipment.

1. Preheat oven to lowest setting (170-200°F)
2. Slice oranges 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick
3. Remove seeds and arrange on parchment-lined baking sheet
4. Prop oven door slightly open
5. Dry for 2-6 hours, rotating occasionally
6. Done when completely dry and crispy

Troubleshooting tip: If slices brown too quickly, lower temperature

2. How to Dehydrate Oranges in an Air Fryer Method (Fastest)

I love my air fryer! It’s perfect for making quick snacks and meals for my family. An air fryer is also perfect for dehydrating small batches of Christmas oranges.

• Perfect for small batches
• Preheat air fryer to lowest setting (usually 130°F)
• Arrange single layer of slices in basket
• Dry for 2-4 hours until crispy

An air fryer is generally faster than other methods, but you also can’t dehydrate as many slices at one time as you can in the oven or food dehydrator. I like to do the smaller citrus fruits like clementines in the air fryer for that reason.

3. Food Dehydrator Method (Most Consistent)

• Ideal for large batches
• Arrange slices on dehydrator trays
• Set temperature to 125-134°F
• Dry for 6-8 hours

We like them dried in the oven since it doesn’t require special equipment. More than one tray fits in at a time, too. However, whichever method you choose is up to you!

Expert Tips for Perfect Results

Regardless of which method you use to dehydrate oranges, here are a few tips to help you achieve perfect results every time!

• Use fresh, high-quality fruit
• Slice evenly for consistent drying
• Remove all seeds before drying
• Leave space between slices
• Pat oranges dry before slicing

Storage Tips

Once your orange slices are dry, here are tips for optimal storage.

• Cool completely before storing
• Keep in airtight containers
• Store up to 1 year
• Optional: Freeze for longer storage
• Check periodically for moisture

Creative Ways to Use Dried Orange Slices

Once they are cool, dry, and crispy, the oranges are ready to use for decorations. Store them in mason jars, hang them on your Christmas tree, add them to wreaths, or use them to make garland! Here are creative ways to use dried citrus slices!

Holiday Decorations

• Christmas tree ornaments
• Natural garlands
• Wreath accents
• Candle displays
• Mason jar decorations

Are Dehydrated Oranges Edible?

Yes, dried orange slices (and other types of citrus) are edible! Here are ways you can use them in the kitchen.

Culinary Uses

Dried orange slices also add flavor and essence to foods and drinks. They are especially fabulous if you coat the orange peel with sugar first!

• Natural food decorations
• Cocktail garnishes
• Tea infusions
• Baked goods flavoring
• Trail mix additions

Use dehydrated citrus as lovely holiday cocktail garnishes. Crumble the oven dried slices into baked goods such as muffins or breads for a hint of citrus flavor. You can even use dried oranges as a healthy snack in trail mixes (just don’t eat the peel part).

Common Questions and Answers About Dehydrating Oranges

How Do I Prepare Oranges for Dehydrating?

Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove dirt or wax, then slice them evenly into rounds. Remove all seeds before dehydrating them.

How Thick Should Dry Orange Slices Be

Thinly slice the oranges from 1/4 to 1/8 inch thick for even drying. The thinner they are, the faster they will be fully dry.

Why did my orange slices stick to the baking sheet/dehydrator trays?

Sticking usually happens when:

• The surface wasn’t lined with parchment paper
• Slices were too wet when placed
• The temperature was too high. Always use parchment paper or silicone mats, pat slices dry, and maintain proper temperature to prevent sticking.

Why did my orange slices develop mold during storage?

Mold develops when slices aren’t completely dry before storage or when exposed to moisture. To prevent this:

• Ensure slices are 100% dry before storing
• Use airtight containers
• Store in a cool, dry place
• Add a food-grade silica gel packet to absorb moisture

Here are a few more of my favorite ways to use dried orange slices

Ready to start creating beautiful dried orange decorations? Try this simple project today and transform your home with natural, aromatic decor that lasts all season long!

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