Citrus & Spice: How to Make Dried Oranges for Thanksgiving
There’s something so perfectly cozy about the soft glow of a kitchen filled with citrus and cinnamon. Dried oranges have quietly become the darling of Southern holiday decorating—and for good reason. They’re simple, stunning, and smell like sunshine and spice. Whether you’re decking your table, topping a pumpkin pie, or creating a garland to drape across the mantel, these cheerful slices bring a natural warmth to your Thanksgiving home.
How to Make Dried Oranges
You’ll need just three things—oranges, a knife, and your oven.
1. Slice your oranges thinly, about ¼ inch thick. Navel or blood oranges work beautifully for that rich amber color.
2. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
3. Bake low and slow. Arrange slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 200°F for 2½–3 hours, flipping every 30 minutes. They’re done when they’re slightly translucent and no longer sticky.
4. Cool completely on a wire rack.
Your kitchen will smell like a cozy candle while they bake—and once they’re done, the possibilities are endless.
Ways to Use Dried Oranges This Thanksgiving
Table Decor: Scatter them down a linen table runner with sprigs of rosemary, pinecones, and votive candles.
Place Settings: Tie one to a folded napkin with twine and a cinnamon stick.
Garnish Drinks: Float a slice in your cinnamon bourbon smash or mulled wine.
Homemade Potpourri: Mix with cloves, star anise, and eucalyptus leaves for a naturally fragrant centerpiece bowl.
Gift Tags: Tie onto wrapped loaves of pumpkin bread or hostess gifts for a homemade touch.
There’s a timeless charm in finding beauty in something as simple as an orange. It’s proof that the most beautiful things are often the simplest.
Save the Slice – Your Dried Oranges at Christmas
Don’t toss those dried oranges just yet! Store them in an airtight container or zip bag, and they’ll last through December. Then, bring them back to life with a little holiday magic:
• Garlands: String with cranberries and popcorn for a vintage-style Christmas garland.
• Ornaments: Add to your tree with velvet ribbon or baker’s twine.
• Gift Wrap: Tie one to each wrapped gift for a natural, sweet touch.
• Simmer Pot: Combine with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a splash of vanilla on the stove for an instant holiday scent.
From Thanksgiving tables to twinkling Christmas trees, these cheerful little slices remind us that beauty—and gratitude—often come from what we already have.