A Very Citrus Christmas

The holiday season is a time for celebration, relaxation, and creating new memories. From making mulled wine to attending local events, we enjoy the season and incorporate aspects of our childhood experiences into our celebrations.

This year, we've started a new tradition by collecting citrus on our neighborhood walks and bringing it home to dry and use throughout our home (and sometimes in our beverages). The citrus adds a touch of California Christmas, smells excellent, and has been a fun activity.

Here's how we've been making dried citrus slices.

Instructions

Step 1: Slice your citrus into thin, even slices. We've been using oranges and lemons, but you can use whatever citrus you like.

Step 2: Let the slices sit and dry out for an hour or so. This helps remove some moisture and makes them easier to handle.

Step 3: Place the slices on a waxed sheet on a baking pan. Please ensure the slices aren't touching each other, which will help them dry more evenly.

Step 4: Bake the slices at 220 degrees Fahrenheit for 2-4 hours, depending on the type and thickness of the citrus. Flip the slices every 30 minutes to ensure they dry evenly on both sides.

Step 5: Once the slices are dry, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely before using them in your decorations or beverages.

Here are a few items I found useful for making the dried citrus slices: a sharp knife, a baking sheet, some fresh oranges and more.

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Enjoy your homemade dried citrus slices, and have a happy holiday season!