Why throw away orange peels when you can candy them? This recipe is one of our Test Kitchen's absolute favorite recipes!

Candied Orange Peels

Spray a wire cooling rack with nonstick cooking spray; place in a rimmed baking pan. Cut the peels of 3 large oranges into 1/4-inch-wide strips. 

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Simmer orange peels for 10 minutes; drain.

Heat 1-1/2 cups sugar, 1 cup water, and a vanilla bean until sugar is dissolved. Add boiled peels. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Gently simmer, uncovered 25 to 30 minutes or until very soft and slightly translucent. Transfer peels to prepared rack; cool 10 minutes. Toss with 1/4 cup sugar. Let dry at room temperature for 6 to 24 hours.

If desired, partially dip orange peels in melted chocolate and let stand until chocolate is set. Store in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.