How To Dry Orange Slices

How To Dry Orange Slices For Decoration 

Learn how to dry orange slices for decoration the way generations before you did. It’s a simple method anyone can do! 

The sweet, fragrant beauty of dried orange slices, once a staple in farmhouses, has resurged in popularity. They add a touch of rustic elegance to our fireplace mantels, wreaths, and tabletop displays alike.

Perhaps the rise of short-form video or the need for traditions in our fast-paced world has brought them back into the spotlight. Whatever the reason, their vibrant hues and delightful citrus scent effortlessly capture the essence of farmhouse living.

For those of us who appreciate the clean, invigorating aroma of citrus, dried orange slices offer a natural way to infuse our homes with fragrance. There’s something comforting about the warm, welcoming scent that fills the air when these charming slices are displayed throughout our farmhouse.

While you may be tempted to purchase dried orange slices for craft projects, they often come with a hefty price tag. And you know what they say: why buy when you can DIY? Ha ha!

Creating your own at home is not only cost-effective but also surprisingly simple. By following a few easy steps, you can transform ordinary oranges into beautiful decorations that reflect your farmhouse style.

Whether you’re looking to craft a farmhouse-inspired garland for your fireplace, add a whimsical touch to your tablescape, or create unique ornaments for your tree, this tutorial has everything you need to get started!

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What Can You Do with Dried Orange Slices? 

If you don’t have a ton of ideas pinned on your Pinterest DIY Board for drying oranges yet, let me give you some ideas for what to do with dried orange slices! 

Dried Orange Slice Decoration Ideas

Rustic Wreath Embellishments: Attach dried orange slices to grapevine wreaths or wooden floral hoop wreaths for a rustic touch that’s perfect for any season.

Natural Home Fragrance: Display dried orange slices in decorative hand-carved bowls or jars around your home to add a touch of farmhouse charm while infusing the air with a refreshing citrus aroma.

Table Centerpiece Accents: Scatter dried orange slices around candles or floral arrangements to add a pop of color and fragrance to your table centerpiece.

Farmhouse Ornaments: String dried orange slices onto twine or ribbon to create charming farmhouse-style ornaments for your Christmas tree.

Gift Wrapping Garnishes: Use dried orange slices as embellishments on gift packages to add a festive and aromatic touch to your presents.

Potpourri Ingredients: Combine dried orange slices with dried herbs, spices, and flowers to create your own potpourri blends, filling your home with delightful scents.

Start from the top and work your way down this list of ideas of what to do with dry oranges because you’re about to have dozens in your craft supply!  

What is the Best Way to Dry Oranges?

Now, of course, you’re wondering what the best method for drying oranges is. I have dried orange slices in the dehydrator and the oven. Over the years, I have come to love my mother’s and her mother’s way of drying oranges. 

Is it better to dry orange slices in the oven or dehydrator? While both methods can yield excellent results, I prefer drying oranges in the oven, as generations before me did, due to its simplicity and accessibility. 

Not everyone has a food dehydrator on hand, plus drying oranges in the oven is quicker than dehydrating. Every time I’ve used a dehydrator to preserve orange slices, it took ALL DAY! 

So, if you question, can you dry orange slices without a dehydrator? Absolutely, the oven is faster!

How do you know when oranges are dry enough?

To determine if your oranges are dry enough, gently press a slice between your fingers. If it feels leathery and no moisture escapes, then it’s ready. 

Remember, patience is key when drying oranges. It’s better to err on the side of caution and let them dry a little longer than risk them being too moist.

So, if you’re wondering why are my dried oranges sticky? It’s because they aren’t dried yet! Give them time to finish baking on the pan outside the oven, or put them back in the oven if they are still sticky when cooled. 

4 Tips To Dry Orange Slices For Decoration

With these tips, you can easily dry orange slices for decoration, ensuring each slice maintains its color and citrus aroma!

1. Opt for Thin Slices: 

Thinly slice the oranges to facilitate efficient dehydration.  This step allows us to bake at a low temperature to preserve the vibrant color and citrus fragrance of each slice. 

2. Cut the Oranges into Uniform Slices:

You won’t hear me talk much about uniformity when it comes to farmhouse style. However, slicing oranges at the same thickness is best to promote even drying. 

Thicker slices can require a longer baking time, causing you to burn the thin slices. So, take your time to slice them consistently for the best results.

3. Avoid Refrigeration:

Keep your dried orange slices away from moisture by storing them in a dry environment. Refrigerators are designed to maintain moisture, so don’t store dried oranges there.

4. Flip For Even Drying:

Remember to flip the orange slices halfway through the drying process. Set a timer to help you keep track. 

Related To: Cinnamon and Spice Stove Top Potpourri Jars

How long do dried oranges last?

There’s no question that dried orange slices make the perfect homemade farmhouse decoration, but how long do dried oranges last?

When stored at room temperature, dried oranges will last for several months. So, doing this farmhouse DIY once or twice a year will keep your craft supply stocked up. That means you can try all the orange slice decorating ideas you’ve saved on Pinterest, too! 

How To Dry Orange Slices In Oven

This easy method for how to dry orange slices in the oven will make your farmhouse smell so good as the aroma of citrus wafts through your kitchen! 

Here’s What You Need:

• 6 Oranges
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Oven

Oven Drying Instructions For Orange Slices:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a low temperature, ideally 200°F (93°C). This gentle heat will facilitate the dehydration process without scorching the orange slices.

2. Prepare the Oranges: Wash the oranges thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or residue. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Then, place the oranges on a cutting board.

3. Slice the Oranges: Using a sharp knife, slice the oranges into uniform rounds, approximately ¼ inch thick. Aim for consistency in thickness to ensure even drying.

4. Line the Baking Sheet: Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the orange slices from sticking to the surface and to ease cleanup afterward.

5. Arrange the Orange Slices: Place the orange slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they do not overlap. Leave some space between each slice to allow for air circulation.

6. Bake in the Oven: Place each baking sheet in the preheated oven and allow the orange slices to bake for approximately 2 to 3 hours. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-drying. 

7. Flip the Slices: Halfway through baking, carefully flip each orange slice to promote even drying on both sides. This step will help achieve uniformly dehydrated slices.

8. Check for Dryness: After the allotted baking time, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the orange slices to cool completely. Press gently to check the slices for dryness; they should feel firm and slightly leathery. (See my tips above if any orange slices are sticky after cooling.) 

9. Store or Use: Once the orange slices have cooled completely, they are ready to be used for decoration or stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

By following these simple steps, you can easily dry orange slices in the oven for your farmhouse decorating ideas!