Dried oranges and lemons not only look beautiful but also release a fabulous scent and create a fresh and festive atmosphere. You can use them to hang on your tree, decorate a homemade wreath or adorn a table setting, plus they’re a fun thing you can do together during the school holidays.
To make your dried fruit you will need:
Oranges and/or lemons
A baking rack (don’t be tempted to just use a tray as they will stick.)
Ribbon, string or wire to hang the slices
Method:
Pre-heat the oven to 120c (250f)
Slice your oranges and lemons as thinly as possible, if you’re making these with children, make sure to supervise or take over for this bit!
Arrange the slices on your rack making sure none of them are touching.
Place the tray into the oven and bake for 2-4 hours turning every half an hour until they are less sticky. Make sure to wear oven gloves to avoid injury, once the slices are less sticky leave until dry. If you are lucky enough to have a dehydrator you could also use this to dry them.
Once dry remove from oven and allow to cool slightly then, using a knife, make a small hole between the skin and the flesh to thread through your ribbon, string or wire.
Dried oranges and lemons create a wonderful gift as well as a great decoration at this time of year and they’re easy to make giving you something to do with the whole family.
Want more festive-themed things to do? Take a look at our recipes page for a whole host of Christmas treats!