How to Dry Citrus in the Oven
A Simple Guide for Beautiful Decor
Learning how to dry citrus in the oven is an easy and enjoyable way to create beautiful, natural decorations that can be used in various ways around your home.
Dried citrus slices add a bright, rustic touch to garlands, wreaths, table centerpieces, and even gift wrapping. They’re eco-friendly, smell delightful, and keep their color and shape for months when properly dried.
Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of dried citrus at home, and discover unique ways to use them.
Materials & Tools Needed to Dry Citrus
To get started on how to dry citrus, gather these basic supplies:
- Fresh citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits work well)
- A sharp knife or mandoline
- Baking sheets
- Metal baking drying racks
- Towels
Step 1: Prepare the Citrus
Select fresh, firm citrus fruits that are free from bruising or blemishes. Slice each fruit into thin, even slices. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Thicker slices will take longer to dry, while thinner slices may dry too quickly or even burn. If the fruit has seeds, gently remove them.
Step 2: Blot the Slices
One essential step in learning how to dry citrus is to remove excess moisture from each slice before baking. Place the citrus slices on a kitchen towel and gently blot the tops with another towel. This reduces moisture, allowing the citrus to dry faster and more evenly in the oven.
Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheets
Place oven safe baking drying racks on top of your baking sheets. Place the citrus slices on the sheets in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Leaving space between each slice ensures that they dry evenly without becoming sticky or mushy.
Step 4: Oven-Drying Process
Set your oven to its lowest temperature, ideally between 150°F and 200°F (65°C to 93°C). This slow-drying method prevents the citrus from cooking or browning and helps maintain their vibrant color.
Place the baking sheets in the oven and leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. Be extra careful if you have kiddos that they don’t go near the oven with the door ajar.
Let the slices dry for 2-4 hours, checking periodically. Flip each slice halfway through the drying time to ensure even drying on both sides. You’ll know they’re ready when they feel firm and crisp to the touch.
Step 5: Cool and Store The Dry Citrus
Once your citrus slices are fully dried, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely. To store your dried citrus, keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Properly dried and stored citrus can last for several months, even years, making them perfect for seasonal decor or year-round use.
Using Dried Citrus for Decor
Now that you’ve mastered how to dry citrus, let’s explore some creative ways to incorporate these beautiful slices into your home decor:
- Garlands and Wreaths: One of the most popular uses for dried citrus is in holiday garlands and wreaths. String the dried slices together with twine, ribbon, or natural string to create a simple garland that can be hung on mantels, windows, or doorways. Combine them with greenery, pinecones, and cinnamon sticks for a festive touch.
- Ornaments: Dried citrus slices make charming ornaments for Christmas trees or seasonal branches displayed in a vase. Simply thread a piece of twine through each slice, tie it, and hang. For a fragrant addition, pair with star anise, cloves, or small cinnamon sticks.
- Table Centerpieces: Scatter dried citrus slices along a dining or coffee table for a natural, rustic centerpiece. Mix them with dried flowers, candles, or small pine branches for a cozy, seasonal display.
- Gift Wrapping: Add a personal, eco-friendly touch to gift wrapping by tying a dried citrus slice onto packages with twine or ribbon. This simple addition can make any present feel special and festive.
- Potpourri: Dried citrus can also be used in potpourri mixes to add a refreshing scent to your home. Combine the slices with dried lavender, rose petals, cloves, or cinnamon sticks to create a lovely homemade potpourri.
Now You Know How to Dry Citrus!
By learning how to dry citrus, you open the door to numerous decorative possibilities that add natural beauty and character to your home. These eco-friendly decorations are versatile, biodegradable, and can be reused for various occasions throughout the year.
I’ve had some citrus slices for years. They store best with an oxygen absorber, which are those little white small packets of beads that are sometimes in food and every day packages. I try to collect them whenever I stumble upon them.
