How To Make Dried Orange Slices

Have you ever dried oranges? Here’s a little secret…I just did for the very first time! I just love the way they turned out and I know this will definitely not be my last time drying them. Dried oranges are all the rage this holiday season and today I want to share with you how to make dried orange slices.

There is something traditional and magical about drying oranges for Christmas and this is such a fun and easy craft project!

“In the wintertime, in the snow country, citrus fruit was so rare, and if you got one, it was better than ambrosia.” -James Earl Jones

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The History of Oranges and Christmas

My parents grew up in the era of the Great Depression. As a little girl, I remember the stories they told about only receiving an orange for Christmas and how blessed they felt by that round piece of fruit. What a great reminder of being grateful and blessed for what we get and what we have.

I wanted to share a two things I learned about the history of oranges and Christmas.

The Best Way To Dry Oranges

Before I dried my oranges, I researched the best way to do it.

I read articles, asked friends and this is what I came up with.

Here’s a PSA…Friends! I’m no expert. I’m sharing what worked for me and I hope you’ll try it too!

If you’ve been here for awhile, you know I craft with my granddaughter every week. This was the perfect project for her to get involved in.

Once the oranges were all cut she was able to help Big Al and I add them to the cooking racks.

If you have littles or grands, I encourage you to include them! Their smiles of accomplishment are priceless!

Your cooking time may vary. Remember, slow and low heat is what this project needs.

Some articles I read said to string the dried oranges right away. Some said to let them sit for awhile. I chose to let them sit for a few hours. Honestly, I think either way works!

How To Use Your Dried Oranges

1.) String them to make a pretty garland. Using a large needle, I chose red twine to string my oranges. I think it just adds a little more festive to the garland.

What do you think?

2.) Add the dried oranges to your existing greenery. I used them this year in my table centerpiece. You can see my tablescape and more in my post, How to Decorate An Old Fashion Cottage Christmas.

3.) Decorate your tree with them by making ornaments. If you like the old fashion vintage Christmas look, you can’t go wrong with making these. You can use the red and white twine or just a solid color to create the ornament.

I also recently made some Easy Vintage Ornaments out of wood, twine and free printable artwork. Another fun and easy project for you to check out!

4.) Lastly, use your dried oranges and add some cinnamon sticks to a decorate vessel for some festive flair!

How To Make Dried Orange Slices

Like I said earlier, I’m no expert but this method worked great for me!

I hope you get the opportunity to dry some for yourself…and maybe do it with your favorite littles!

I’m so grateful for you visiting my blog each week. Wishing you all the Merriest Christmas!

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