Dehydrated citrus slices are one of those simple DIY crafts that looks far more impressive than it is difficult. Easy to make and fun to customize, these creations add a bright, beautiful touch to cocktails, decorations, desserts, and more. With a glossy, candied-looking appearance, they’re simply fruit slices that have been fully dried out to extend their shelf life. This means you can enjoy them long after citrus season ends!
The best part is how flexible dehydrated citrus slices can be. You can stick with oranges if you want a cohesive look—blood oranges, Valencias, Cara Caras, and navels each offer their own unique profile. If you prefer something more playful, try a theme. Lemons and limes create a fresh green‑and‑yellow palette, while mixing all kinds of citrus gives you a colourful mosaic effect. Whatever you choose, these preserved fruits are incredibly versatile.
At every Farm Boy, you’ll find plenty of fresh citrus to explore. Winter is peak citrus season, so our stores are filled with vibrant, juicy fruit picked at its best. Whether you’re looking for produce that brings you closer to the farm or local gems that are simply good food from good neighbours, we think you’ll love our selection. Our buyers hand‑select everything that comes through our doors to ensure exceptional quality and excellent value every time you shop. Don’t forget to check out our Digital Flyer to view the “zest” products of the season and get inspired for your next shop!
Blog Overview
- Learn how to make dried citrus slices—also known as citrus wheels—using fresh, vibrant seasonal fruit.
- Discover methods and tips to dehydrate fruit slices naturally, with a dehydrator, or your oven.
- It’s best to cut citrus slices 1/4 inch thick for the optimal size, making sure they dry completely before storing.
- To ensure homemade citrus wheels are dry, use a paper towl to gently press a slice. If it is clean and without moisture, it’s done!
- Store dehydrated citrus wheels in an airtight container for lasting freshness.
- Use dried citrus slices for aroma therapy, baked goods, decorating, gifting, and more.
What Citrus Fruits Are Best For Drying?
Any type of citrus fruits can be dried. Larger fruits, like grapefruits and oranges, will take longer to dry, as more liquid need to evaporate, while smaller fruits, like lemons and limes, will take less time to dry completely. Citrus fruits need to be completely dried before being used or store to prevent spoilage. For the best variety in terms of colour and flavour, we suggest drying any of the following fruits:
Blood Oranges
With a crimson colour and a tart, raspberry-like profile, dried blood orange slices are and excellent accompaniment to citrussy cocktails like a Paper Plane or to additional vibrance to favourites like an Old Fashioned.
Cara Cara Oranges
This fruit has a sweet-tangy flavour with orange-to-pink flesh. Dried Cara Cara orange slices are a versatile option to add citrus and a touch of berry notes to anything.
Navel Oranges
This orange has a distinctly sweet taste with subtle tang. Try using dried navel oranges for charcuterie platters, decor projects, in salads, and more.
Grapefruits
A larger citrus fruit, it comes in multiple rind colours and can have pink, red, or white flesh. Dried grapefruit slices are excellent for snacking, incorporating into recipes, and more.
Lemons
You can never go wrong with the classics, lemons have that quintessential bright and sour profile. Dried lemon slices work really well in cocktails, desserts, and in tea mixes.
Limes
Tart with a fruity aroma, limes deliver a sour taste that wakes up the palate. Use dried lime slices for soups, to flavour water, or in homemade potpourri.
Learn more about some of the citrus varieties that can be found at your local Farm Boy here.
Ways to Dry Citrus Fruits
There are a few ways to make dehydrated citrus slices (also known as citrus wheels). The difference between the three is really the amount of time spent, although much of these processes are hands-off. From the longest amount of time to the shortest, the three methods of dehydrating citrus fruits are below.
- Naturally
- With a Food Dehydrator
- In the Oven
How to Dry Citrus Fruits
Preparation
Whatever method you choose, drying fruit slices begins the same way—by slicing them! Use a sharp knife or a mandoline and cut your citrus fruit into thin, even slices. The thinner the slice, the faster they will dry. A mandoline ensures that your fruit slices will be nice and even, but it’s not a requirement for this project. Simply make sure you have a very sharp knife at hand, as dull knives are dangerous and will make this process more difficult. We recommend slicing your citrus wheels into ¼-inch thickness for the best look and a slightly shorter drying time.
Naturally
The most hands-off approach to drying fruit slices is to let them dry naturally. Unfortunately, it is also the longest, and can take several days. However, if you’re in no hurry and have the space, this method may work for you! Slice your desired citrus fruits into ¼-inch rounds and place them on a wire baking rack on your kitchen counter. Turn them every day to ensure they dry evenly. We recommend laying down a sheet of parchment paper beneath your wire rack to catch any sticky juices that drip off for an easier cleanup.
With a Food Dehydrator
Of these three methods, using a food dehydrator to dry your citrus slices is the most modern. Place your fruit slices on the dehydrator rack and set your temperature to 125°F-135°F. Turn them every hour to ensure they dehydrate evenly until they’re completely dried. Depending on your dehydrator, the fruit you use, and the thickness of your slices, this could take anywhere from 6-12 hours or longer.
In the Oven
One of the most popular ways to make dehydrated citrus wheels is by using the oven, since almost every home has one. Preheat your oven to 200°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If your oven runs hot, you can lower the temperature to 170°F, though the process may take longer. Bake your citrus slices for 3–6 hours. As with other methods, the exact time depends on the type of fruit and the thickness of your slices. Flip the citrus after the two‑hour mark to ensure even drying, and remove them from the oven once they are completely dry with no remaining moisture. They should feel brittle to the touch and leave no moisture when pressed against a paper towel. Transfer the slices to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before using.
Chef’s Tips
- Watch your citrus. We want beautiful dehydrated citrus wheels, not burnt fruit. If your oven seems to be running too hot, lower the temperature.
- Turn the citrus slices frequently. This allows for even drying and helps speed up the process.
- Allow your citrus to dry out completely. Any remaining moisture or stickiness means that your citrus wheels are not done yet. You can check if they’re completely dry by pressing the slices with a paper towel to see if they’re still moist. Finished slices should feel brittle to the touch.
- Try this technique with different citrus fruits! Each fruit has its own unique flavour and aroma.
Dried Citrus Fruit Variations
You don’t have to dry your citrus slices plain. Before placing them in the oven, try sprinkling them with sugar or spices like cinnamon. Confectioner’s sugar works especially well, adding a subtle shine and a sweeter flavour. Use a sifter to dust the slices evenly, then tap off any excess. Keep in mind that sugar can burn or caramelize quickly, which can affect the final look, so watch your slices closely as they dry!
Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can give your citrus fruits a beautiful scent. We advise using the same sifting method as you would for sugar and be careful not to use too much. The colour of these dried fruit slices is an important part of this project, and too much cinnamon could muddy them.
What Can I Do With Dried Citrus Fruits?
There are loads of fun, delicious ways to use dried citrus slices. From recipes to décor and gifts, take a peek at a few of our favourite ideas are below!
Dried Citrus As…A Cocktail Garnish
Dried citrus makes a beautiful and delicious cocktail garnish! Try pairing your dehydrated slices with a beverage that has a similar flavour profile. For example, dehydrated grapefruit would work beautifully in a paloma or salty dog. Dried blood orange would be perfect for a mimosa or Aperol spritz. Any dehydrated citrus wheel would also make an excellent garnish for mulled wine, mulled cider, or sangria.
Dried Citrus As…A Dessert Topping
Use your favourite dried citrus as decoration for your baked goods. A simple glazed cake would be stunning with the addition of dehydrated orange slices or lemon wheels! They can also help elevate the taste an look of sorbets, ice creams, and more.
Dried Citrus As…A Snack
On their own, dried citrus wheels can make a yummy—and chewy—snack. If you’d like to add a little bit more decadence to it, try dipping them in chocolate! We like using dark chocolate as it works best in contrast with the tangy citrus. Take any of your dried orange slice varieties (like blood orange, Cara Cara, or Valencia) and dip them in a bowl of melted dark chocolate until they are half submerged. Lay them on a baking tray to dry and add a sprinkle of Farm Boy™ Fleur de Sel for a bit of culinary flair. The flavour combination of sweet, sour, and salty is scrumptious!
If you’re planning to make these for the kiddos, dark chocolate may be too bitter for them. Try dipping your orange slices in melted Farm Boy™ Milk Chocolate instead!
Dried Citrus As…A Flavour Booster
Enjoy a warm or iced cup of tea with the addition of a slice of dried citrus. Not only does it look beautiful, but a dehydrated citrus wheel also adds a bright, citrusy note to your drink. Chamomile and mint teas pair especially well with dried lemon, as do most black teas. For a refreshing twist, add a few dried lemon and orange slices to a pitcher of homemade sweet tea on a hot summer day for extra flavour.
Dried Citrus As…An Ingredient
Chop up some of your beautiful dehydrated citrus wheels (if you can bear it) and add them to muffins or cookies for an extra infusion of citrus. Chopped up dried citrus also works well as a tasty extra in your homemade trail mix or granola recipes. You can also add dehydrated citrus wheels to charcuterie or cheese boards. Aside from their natural beauty, they’re a naturally delicious partner for salty meats and cheeses.
Dried Citrus As…Holiday Décor
Citrus is a flavour we enjoy year‑round, but it really shines during the chilly winter months when our stores are overflowing with citrus treats. Try stringing your dried citrus wheels together to create a festive wreath. Add seasonal touches like cinnamon sticks or pinecones for extra colour and a wonderful seasonal scent. Dried citrus also makes a gorgeous, natural accent for homemade garlands or hanging decorations no matter the time of year.
Dried Citrus As…Potpourri
Speaking of scents, dried citrus is an amazing ingredient in potpourri! To make a dry potpourri, mix a few drops of essential oils like cinnamon and pine in a bowl with decorative elements like a dried orange wheels, pinecones, and cinnamon sticks. For a simmer pot (aka stovetop potpourri), add these ingredients (plus whatever other aromatics you’d like) to a pot of water and set it to simmer, adding more water as needed. Either option makes for a delightful smell that will envelope your home.
Dried Citrus As…A Gift
Choose a cute airtight jar or container to keep your citrus stored properly, then fill it with dried citrus wheels and any additional aromatics you like. Tie it off with a ribbon or bow, and you’ve got an adorable DIY gift that’s perfect for holidays, gift exchanges, and more. Add a tag to let the recipient know the different ways they can enjoy their sweet and thoughtful present.
How To Store Dried Citrus Fruits
Properly dehydrated citrus can last a very long time if you make sure all the moisture has been removed so your fruit slices don’t spoil. Store your dehydrated slices in an airtight container kept in a cool, dry place. This will help keep that beautiful colour you worked so hard to preserve. Stored this way, they can last for years!
If you plan to use your citrus slices for culinary purposes—such as baking, cocktails, or snacking—consume them within one to two years to ensure they keep their flavour and appearance. If you’re using them for décor, dehydrated slices can last for several years. However, if you notice any signs of mold or an off smell, discard them right away, as this means they were not fully dried before storage.
