How to make dried citrus fruits

I have a brand new tutorial for you that is so easy and guaranteed to impress everyone around you. Have you ever ordered a cocktail or even a dessert garnished with those gorgeous dried citrus fruits? I think they are so pretty and they turn out to be incredibly easy to make!

Here’s a step-by-step guide to learning how to make one dried citrus fruits directly at home without fancy devices. All you need is a baking sheet, a sharp knife and an oven! Dehydrating citrus takes a few hours but only requires a few simple steps.

You can use dehydrated citrus in so many ways too. Grab a scroll to check out the tutorial, tips, tricks, and fun uses. Then come back here later this week for a brand new citrus recipe!

What is dehydrated citrus?

The pretty, candied-looking citrus fruit slices on desserts or in fancy cocktails are completely dried up! The process is exactly what it sounds like – it removes all moisture from the fruit slices so they can dry out and be preserved. There are countless ways to use dehydrated citrus, and you can do it right in your oven. No dehydrator required!

Choose your fruit

This easy citrus drying method can be used for grapefruit, lemon, lime, and orange slices. So pick a few of your favorites and get ready for some amazing ways to use them.

Beautiful dried citrus fruits in 3 easy steps

As I mentioned earlier, no dehydrator is required, just a baking sheet and oven. That’s how it’s done:

1. Cut your fruit. Start by slicing your citrus into roughly 1/4″ rounds. A mandolin is a great tool for making the rounds even, but if you don’t have one, just use a sharp knife.
2. Bake the citrus fruits. Place the citrus slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 170 degrees F (yes, very low) until completely dry.
3. Cool & enjoy. Let the citrus slices cool on a wire rack, then use them in desserts, cocktails and mocktails, or even as decoration!

How long does it take to dry citrus fruits?

Certain citrus fruits that are less juicy, like limes, are likely to take less time to dry (closer to 4 hours). Juicier citrus fruits like grapefruit and oranges take closer to 6 hours. You’ll know the fruit is completely dried when it’s brittle in texture and doesn’t ooze moisture when you gently press a paper towel over it.

Fun ways to use dried citrus

• Garnish your favorite cocktails or mocktails like this Spicy Blood Orange Margarita
• Decorate gorgeous cakes like this Orange Zucchini Cake
• Dip the slices in melted dark chocolate for a nice treat
• Decorate a tablescape or charcuterie board to add a pop of color, or make a pretty citrus garland
• Add one to your cup of tea to boost the citrus flavor

save tips

Store your dry citrus in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. The citrus will last up to a year as long as it is stored properly and the fruit is fully dehydrated. If the fruit still contains moisture, it can become moldy, so remember to dry it out completely!

Other helpful guides

Check out all my patterns here!

I hope you love this how-to guide on how to make dried citrus! If you try it, leave a comment and rating below so I know how you liked it. Have fun, xo!

Recipe by: Monique Volz // Ambitious kitchen | Photography by Eat Love Eats