If you’re looking for a delightful way to turn something bitter into something sweet, this Candied Grapefruit Peel recipe is just the ticket! There’s something magical about transforming grapefruit peels, which often end up in the trash, into a delicious and chewy candy. I love making this treat to share with friends and family—it’s perfect for snacking on during movie nights or adding a special touch to baked goods.

This recipe not only helps reduce food waste but also gives you a unique snack that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want to add some zest to your afternoon tea, these sweet little bites are always a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make: This candied grapefruit peel recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks!
Family-friendly: Kids will love the sweet taste, and it’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen.
Make-ahead treat: You can prepare these in advance, making them a fantastic option for busy weeks or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile flavor: Enjoy them as-is, toss them into baked goods, or even use them as a garnish for drinks (non-alcoholic, of course!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find. Grab everything you need, and let’s get started on making this delightful treat!

For the Candied Grapefruit Peel

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

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Feel free to get creative with how you enjoy your candied grapefruit peel!

Add spices: Sprinkle cinnamon or ginger while cooking for an extra kick of flavor.
Zest it up: Use peels from other citrus fruits like oranges or lemons for different tastes.
Chocolate dip: Dip your candied peels in melted dairy-free chocolate for an indulgent treat.
Infuse flavors: Soak the peels in herbal tea before candying for a unique twist.

How to Make Candied Grapefruit Peel

Step 1: Prepare the Grapefruit

Start by washing your grapefruit thoroughly. Since we’ll be using the peels, it’s important to remove any pesticides or wax that may be present if they aren’t organic. Once clean, cut each grapefruit in half and then slice off the flesh carefully, leaving as much of the peel intact as possible.

Step 2: Blanch the Peels

Next, take your grapefruit peels and place them in a pot of boiling water. Blanching helps soften the peels and removes some bitterness. Boil them for about 10 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water. Repeat this process twice more.

Step 3: Candying Process

In another pot, combine the blanched peels with 3 cups of filtered water and 3 cups of sugar. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 60 minutes until the peels become translucent.

Step 4: Rolling in Sugar

Once your peels are perfectly candied, remove them from the syrup using tongs. Allow them to drain briefly before rolling each piece in granulated sugar—this adds a lovely sweetness that makes them irresistible!

Step 5: Drying Time

Finally, place your sugared candied grapefruit peel on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them dry at room temperature for at least 2 hours. If you have some patience (which I know can be tough!), letting them sit overnight will improve their texture.

And there you have it! A delightful batch of candied grapefruit peel ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Candied Grapefruit Peel

Creating delicious candied grapefruit peel can be a fun and rewarding experience, so here are some pro tips to ensure your candy turns out perfectly!

Choose organic grapefruit: Using organic grapefruit helps avoid pesticides and chemicals that can linger on the peels, making your candy healthier and tastier.
Blanching is key: Blanching the peels before the candying process helps reduce bitterness. It also softens the peels, allowing them to absorb the sugar syrup better.
Patience is essential: Allowing the peels to sit in the syrup overnight enhances their sweetness and flavor. Rushing this step may result in less flavorful candy.
Experiment with sugar types: For a unique twist, try using different types of sugar, such as coconut sugar or brown sugar. These alternatives can add depth and complexity to the flavor.
Store properly: Once cooled, store your candied grapefruit peel in an airtight container at room temperature. Proper storage keeps them fresh and prevents stickiness.

How to Serve Candied Grapefruit Peel

Candied grapefruit peel makes an elegant addition to many dishes or can be enjoyed on its own. Here are some delightful ways to present this sweet treat!

Garnishes

Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pistachios or almonds on top of the candied peels for added texture and a nutty flavor.
Dark chocolate drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate adds a rich contrast to the sweetness of the grapefruit.
Fresh mint leaves: Garnish your serving dish with a few fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and refreshing aroma.

Side Dishes

Cheese platter: Pair your candied grapefruit peel with a selection of cheeses like goat cheese or sharp cheddar. The creamy textures complement the candy’s sweetness beautifully.
Yogurt parfait: Layer candied grapefruit peel into yogurt along with granola and fresh fruit for a delicious breakfast or snack option.
Green salad: Toss together mixed greens, walnuts, feta cheese, and slices of candied grapefruit peel for a refreshing salad that balances sweet and savory flavors.
Herbed quinoa: Serve alongside herbed quinoa seasoned with lemon juice and olive oil for a wholesome meal that complements the bold flavors of the candy.

Enjoy your homemade candied grapefruit peel as part of these delightful presentations!

Make Ahead and Storage

This candied grapefruit peel recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy its delightful sweetness throughout the week. Here’s how to store it effectively:

Storing Leftovers

Store the cooled candied grapefruit peels in an airtight container.
Keep them in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks.
For extended freshness, consider refrigerating them.

Freezing

Place the candied grapefruit peels in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring excess air is removed.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat candied grapefruit peels if they’re used as snacks or baking ingredients!
If desired, you can let them come to room temperature after freezing before using them in recipes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making candied grapefruit peel.

How do I make candied grapefruit peel?

Making candied grapefruit peel involves blanching the peels, simmering them in a sugar syrup, and then rolling them in sugar. It’s an easy process that turns bitter peels into sweet treats!

Can I use other citrus fruits for this recipe?

Absolutely! This method works wonderfully with orange, lemon, or even lime peels. Just adjust the cooking times as necessary, since different fruits may have varying thicknesses.

What can I use candied grapefruit peel for?

Candied grapefruit peel can be enjoyed on its own as a snack or incorporated into baked goods like cookies and cakes. It also makes a beautiful garnish for desserts!

How long does candied grapefruit peel last?

If stored properly in an airtight container, candied grapefruit peel can last for up to 2 weeks at room temperature or up to 3 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful candied grapefruit peel! It’s not just a fantastic way to reduce food waste; it’s also a sweet treat that brightens any snack or dessert. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it with friends and family, this recipe has something special for everyone. Happy candy-making!