Yule Calendar Day 17: Dried Citrus Slices
Dried citrus slices are perfect for adding a touch of magic to your holiday decorations, whether it’s for gift wrapping, hanging on the Yule tree, or even for embellishing baked goods. Not only do they bring beauty, but the process of drying them fills your home with a refreshing scent!
Magical Uses:
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, citrus fruits carry magical properties that can enhance the energy of your holiday season. Orange slices can invite joy and prosperity, while lemons and limes bring cleansing and purification. As they dry, the slices symbolize the cycle of life and renewal, making them ideal for Yule, the celebration of the returning sun.
How to Make Dried Citrus Slices with a Frosty Touch
Choose your favorite citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, or kumquats).
Thinly slice the fruit and lay the pieces on a fine wire rack.
Lightly dust each slice with powdered sugar on both sides. This will create a frosty, glittery appearance as they dry.
Dry the slices in a warm, dry spot or use an oven (instructions below).
Oven-Drying Instructions
To dry citrus slices in the oven and achieve a frosted look:
In Celsius: Set your oven to 70°C.
In Fahrenheit: Set your oven to 160°F.
Arrange the powdered sugar-dusted slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or on a wire rack. Leave the oven door slightly open to allow moisture to escape. Drying time can range from 7-10 hours, depending on slice thickness and moisture content.
Tip: Check the slices occasionally and reapply a light dusting of powdered sugar halfway through if desired for an extra frosty look.
Decorative Ideas
Once dried, the frosted slices can be strung with festive twine for garlands or used as charms around the home. The powdered sugar adds a subtle sparkle, perfect for magical holiday decorations.
Storage Tip
Store them in a breathable bag or container to avoid moisture buildup.
These frosted, dried citrus slices are an easy and beautiful addition to holiday decor, perfect for adding a touch of magic to the season.