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Candied Grapefruit Slices Recipe

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3.8 from 2 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Candied grapefruit slices are a vibrant and tangy treat made by boiling thin grapefruit slices in sugar syrup until perfectly translucent and sweet. This classic candying technique creates beautiful citrus “stained glass” slices that are ideal for garnishing cocktails, decorating cakes, or adding a bright pop of flavor to baked goods. With simple ingredients and precise temperature control, you can enjoy a sophisticated homemade confection that balances sweet and tart flavors.

Ingredients

Fruit

  • 2 Grapefruits, sliced thinly, ¼ inch

For the Sugar Syrup

  • 3 cups Water
  • 1 ½ cups Granulated Sugar

Other

  • Ice bath (water and ice in a medium-sized bowl)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Grapefruit Slices: Using a sharp knife and cutting board, slice two grapefruits into thin, ¼-inch slices. Set aside.
  2. Boil Water and Prepare Ice Bath: Bring a few cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Meanwhile, prepare an ice bath by filling a medium-sized bowl with water and lots of ice.
  3. Blanch Grapefruit Slices: Once the water is boiling, carefully drop the grapefruit slices into the boiling water. Boil for 2 minutes to reduce bitterness and soften the peel, then immediately transfer the slices to the ice bath to stop the cooking process and set the color.
  4. Make Sugar Syrup: In a heavy-bottomed stainless steel saucepan or Dutch oven, combine 3 cups water with 1 ½ cups granulated sugar. Stir gently just once to dissolve sugar—do not stir again to prevent crystallization. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
  5. Heat Syrup to Thread Stage (218-220°F / 104°C): Using a candy thermometer, allow the syrup to reach 218–220°F. This may take approximately 20 minutes on a gas stove. Once reached, gently add the blanched grapefruit slices into the syrup.
  6. Candy Grapefruit Slices: Continue simmering the grapefruit slices in the syrup, heating until it reaches 245°F (firm ball stage) and starts to foam. This will take about an additional 20 minutes. Watch closely to avoid caramelization or burning.
  7. Remove and Cool: Carefully remove the candied slices one by one using food tweezers, fork, or tongs. Place each slice on a cooling rack lined with parchment paper to catch drips. Allow slices to cool for at least 2 hours until set.
  8. Clean Syrup Residue: For easy cleanup, pour about 1 cup of water into the saucepan with leftover syrup and bring it to a simmer for a few minutes. This helps dissolve any hardened sugar residue.
  9. Optional Drying: If the slices feel sticky after cooling, dry them further on your oven’s lowest temperature, flipping frequently to avoid burning, until desired texture is achieved.

Notes

  • Use a reliable candy thermometer to monitor syrup temperature closely—accurate temperatures ensure proper candy texture.
  • Avoid stirring syrup after initial mix to prevent crystallization and grainy texture.
  • Cooling grapefruit slices on a rack with parchment paper prevents sticking and allows even drying.
  • If you don’t have a candy thermometer, use a cold water test to gauge syrup stage.
  • When drying in the oven due to sticky slices, check and flip frequently to avoid burning.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://saraflavors.com/candied-grapefruit-slices-recipe/