How To Dry Citrus In The Oven

---

To tell you the truth, drying citrus slices in the oven is time consuming (about 3-6 hours of drying time). It is quite easy however, since the oven will do most of the work for you.

You can definitely put these slices in the oven and multi task (as long as you don’t forget they’re in there!). Dehydrated citrus slices can last up to a year if store properly with no moisture in a cool dry place. So the payoff is worth it!

*This post may contain affiliate links. If purchased, it may result in a small commission for this site at no cost to you. Thank you supporting Midwest & Wonder*

What Citrus Can I Dry?

You can dry whatever citrus you have available depending on the season. Once winter comes around, there are a few more options since there growing time is during our winter.

• Oranges (blood orange, cara cara, navel)
• Lemons
• Limes
• Grapefruit

What Can I Do With Dried Citrus?

There’s lots of lovely ways to use these pretty dried citrus slices! Here’s some ideas:

• Decorate desserts
• Drink toppers
• Dip in chocolate
• String garland
• Decorate presents
• Use a natural holiday decorations
• Dried citrus ornaments
• Add to homemade wreaths

Dried Citrus Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Start by washing and drying your citrus. Use a sharp knife to cut thin slices, 1/4-inch thick. If the slices are too thick, it will take a very long time to dehydrate properly.
3. Arrange the citrus slices so they don’t overlap. If you’re drying multiple kinds of citrus, place smaller citrus like lemons and limes on one tray, and larger slices like oranges and grapefruit on another. Smaller slices can finish dry quicker and it’s easier to remove the tray when done.
4. Set the timer for two hours. After two hours, flip the citrus over so the other side can be exposed and dry. Add two more hours to your timer. Check on your citrus slices often to determine how they’re drying and how much more time is needed.

The orange slice on the left is after three hours. It’s started to dry around the rind and the center. The lemon slice on the right is after 3 and a half hours. It’s more glass like and almost see through. (Remember, different fruit will need different drying times)

5. You will know they’re done when they’re completely dry to the touch, have a glass like appearance, and have shrunken a bit in size.
6. Store in an airtight container. To store for up to a year or more, keep in a cool, dark, and dry place and make sure there is no moisture in the container. I prefer to use them within the year if using for edible purposes.

RECIPE CARD