How to use dried orange slices to “zest” up your holiday decor and gift giving ideas!
This is the first year I have made dried oranges. I’ve seen lots of beautiful creations using dried oranges, so I thought I would try this year! I made two large (three sheets each) batches, and was able to create ornaments, a garland and gift tags. Here are the steps I followed, as well as some tips that I learned after each batch to make the drying process easier!
Steps to dry Oranges:
- Wash oranges with soapy water and dry (air dry or wipe with cloth).
- Make sure you have a large and sharp kitchen knife available.
- Slice oranges as thin as possible.
Washed Navel Oranges 
Sliced as thin as Possible
- Using a towel of choice, pat orange slices dry.
- Try to get as much moisture out of the oranges as possible.
- Arrange slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Preheat oven to 200°
- Bake for 2 hours and then flip oranges over.
- Bake for another hour.
- Check oranges periodically.
Lay on parchment lined trays 
Leave overnight to dry
- I found after an hour only a few oranges were ready (fully dried through). I kept checking and taking the oranges that were done off the baking sheet and onto a wire rack, until all were finished drying.
Holiday Uses for dried Oranges:
- Easy Ornaments
Use string and wooden beads 
Add to tree or gift as a tag!
- Gift Tags
These are a great way to add a natural element to your gifting.
- String Garland
- Holiday potpourri
Lovelee Lessons:
- Make sure you really dry out the oranges before you bake them. The less moisture the better.
- Try to slice the oranges as thin as possible. It will help them dry quicker and thoroughly.
- I left the oranges on a drying rack in the oven overnight. Make sure the oven is off! It will help the oranges fully dry.
