Candied citron is a classic confection with a history of use in holiday baking, traditional fruitcakes, and desserts.
The recipe transforms the humble citron into a jewel-like treat with a sweet, citrusy aroma and chewy texture.
Perfect for gift-giving or adding to your favorite recipes, these candied pieces are a celebration of timeless flavor.
Serve as-is for a delightful snack, or incorporate into baked goods for a burst of citrus sweetness.
Recipe Information
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes (active), 2 days (passive soaking and drying time)
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Course: Dessert / Ingredient
- Cuisine: European
- Servings: Makes about 2 cups of candied citron
- Calorie Count: 70 kcal per 1 oz (28g)
- Price: Approximately $8
Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan or pot
- Slotted spoon
- Baking sheet
- Cooling rack
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Airtight container for storage
Ingredients List
- 2 medium-sized citron fruits (about 1 lb total)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 cups water (for blanching)
- 1 ½ cups water (for syrup)
- Additional sugar for coating (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Citron
Wash the citron thoroughly under running water.
Cut the citron into quarters and remove the pulp, leaving the thick peel and pith intact.
Slice the peels into ½-inch wide strips.
Step 2: Blanch the Citron
Place the citron strips in a large saucepan and cover with water.
Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
Drain and repeat this process two more times to remove bitterness.
Step 3: Make the Syrup
In the same saucepan, combine 1 ½ cups water and 2 cups sugar.
Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, forming a syrup.
Add the blanched citron strips to the syrup.
Step 4: Cook the Citron
Simmer the citron in the syrup over low heat for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to ensure even coating.
The citron should become translucent and tender.
Step 5: Dry the Citron
Remove the strips with a slotted spoon and arrange them on a cooling rack placed over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Allow the citron to dry at room temperature for 24–48 hours.
Step 6: Optional Sugar Coating
Once dried, toss the candied citron in additional sugar for a sparkling finish.
Store in an airtight container for up to a month.
Cooking Tips
- To enhance flavor, add a few drops of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the syrup.
- If the syrup becomes too thick while cooking, add a tablespoon of water to prevent burning.
- Use a food dehydrator to speed up the drying process.
Nutritional Information (Per 1 oz / 28g)
- Calories: 70 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
If you want to find recipes for some other sweets, you can check out the one we have for Starbucks Chocolate Cake
Ingredient Alternatives for Traditional Candied Citron
If you can’t find citron or want to try different ingredients, there are several options to consider that still capture the essence of this recipe.
For the citron, lemons with thick peels make a great substitute. They bring a sharper flavor but still work well when candied. Grapefruit peels are another excellent option, offering a similar thick pith and a milder bitterness.
If you prefer a sweeter and more aromatic result, orange peels are an ideal alternative and are especially popular in candied fruit recipes.
If granulated sugar isn’t available or you’d like to experiment, coconut sugar can be used instead. It lends a caramel-like flavor to the candy but will darken the final product. For a more natural option, honey or maple syrup can replace granulated sugar in the syrup, creating a richer, more complex flavor.
Be aware, however, that the texture might differ slightly. For those looking to reduce calories, sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit can be used, though they don’t caramelize in the same way, which may impact the final texture.
Water can also be swapped out for other liquids to add unique flavors. Using orange juice instead of water in the syrup provides a fruitier profile while adding a tablespoon of rose water or orange blossom water enhances the confection with a subtle floral aroma.
Summary
Traditional Candied Citron is a timeless treat that combines simplicity with indulgence.
Its chewy texture and bright, sweet citrus flavor make it a versatile ingredient for baking or a delightful snack on its own.
With its long shelf life and ability to elevate holiday recipes, candied citron is a true kitchen staple.
Try it for yourself and share the joy of this centuries-old culinary tradition!
