How to Make Dried Orange Slice Ornaments?

You can easily make beautiful and fragrant dried orange slice ornaments with just a few simple steps!

Here's how to dry orange slices for ornaments:

Materials You'll Need

• Oranges (Navel oranges work well)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Knife
• Cooling rack (optional, but recommended)
• Twine, ribbon, or yarn for hanging

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oranges: Wash and thoroughly dry the oranges. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the oranges into approximately 1/4-inch thick rounds. Consistent thickness will ensure even drying.

2. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (this prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier, but is not strictly necessary). Arrange the orange slices in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they don't overlap.

3. Initial Baking (2 Hours): Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at the lowest temperature setting possible, ideally around 140°F (60°C). If your oven doesn't go that low, set it to the lowest setting and prop the oven door open slightly with a wooden spoon to help release moisture. Bake for approximately 2 hours.

4. Transfer to Rack (for optimal drying): After 2 hours, remove the orange slices from the baking sheet and place them directly on a wire cooling rack. This allows for better air circulation and prevents curling. If you don't have a cooling rack, you can continue to use the baking sheet but turning the slices is crucial.

5. Continue Drying (and Turning): Return the rack (or baking sheet) with the orange slices to the oven. Continue baking, turning the slices every hour or so, to prevent sticking and ensure even drying. The total drying time will depend on the thickness of the slices and your oven temperature, but it will likely take several more hours.

6. Overnight Drying (Optional, but recommended): After several hours of baking, turn off the oven and leave the orange slices inside overnight to finish drying completely. This slow cooling process helps prevent cracking.

7. Check for Dryness: The orange slices are done when they are firm, translucent, and no longer sticky. They should feel dry to the touch.

8. Decorate (Optional): Once the orange slices are completely dry, you can decorate them further by sprinkling glitter, adding cinnamon sticks, or painting them with craft paint.

9. Add Hanger: Use a needle or small knife to carefully poke a hole near the top of each dried orange slice. Thread a length of twine, ribbon, or yarn through the hole and tie a knot to create a loop for hanging.

Tips for Success

• Lowest Temperature is Key: Use the lowest oven temperature your oven offers to prevent burning.
• Even Slicing: Uniform thickness is crucial for consistent drying.
• Patience is Important: The drying process takes time, so be patient and don't rush it.
• Moisture is the Enemy: Make sure the orange slices are completely dry before storing them, otherwise they may mold.
• Storage: Store dried orange slices in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

With a little time and effort, you can create beautiful, fragrant, and natural ornaments that will add a touch of warmth and cheer to your home.