Here are our go-to methods for drying the orange slices that we use for holiday decor. Dried oranges are really versatile and can be used for so many things during the holiday season. Best of all, at the end of the season you can throw them into a simmer pot or use them as potpourri before composting them. These methods for drying can also be used for other types of citrus such as grapefruit, limes and blood oranges. Make sure that you look for varieties that are seedless and choose fruit that are firm and round. You’ll find instructions for drying in both an oven and dehydrator below. We own a dehydrator so that’s my preferred method these days, but if I’m short on time the oven is always a good option!

Instructions to dry oranges

Prepare your oranges

Slice your oranges to 1/8″ thick using a sharp knife. Try to cut all of your slices a consistent thickness, especially if you’re drying them in the oven. Thinner areas tend to burn otherwise. Place slices on a clean tea towel and gently pat dry with another towel. Repeat if necessary.

Dry your oranges: oven method

Arrange orange slices on a baking sheet with parchment paper and bake at 200 degrees F for several hours until dry. Flip every 30 minutes to prevent edges from curling excessively. It should take anywhere from 3-5 hours depending on how thick your slices are. Keep a close eye on them towards the second half.

Dry your oranges: dehydrator method

Set your dehydrator to 130 degrees F and dehydrate for about 12-14 hours, flipping every hour or so. Dehydrating results in slices that are more uniform looking and you don’t run the risk of them burning. The dry time varies greatly depending on your dehydrator so you’ll need to experiment with this.

Tips and tricks:

– Making sure your slices are cut in a consistent thickness can help to prevent burning if you’re oven drying, since it’s the thinner areas that tend to burn.
– Give your orange slices a really good pat down in between clean towels before drying, regardless of which method you are using. This makes a big difference in cutting down overall drying time.
– You’ll be able to tell when your orange slices are dry because they will truly look and feel dry, meaning that there’re will be no sticky or soft areas. If your oranges are on the brink of burning in the oven, you can remove them early and let them air dry for a day or so.

Favorite ways to use dried oranges

– string them up as a garland for easy DIY holiday decor
– for decorating gifts
– as tree ornaments
– in simmer pots and potpourri
– as a cocktail garnish