Old-fashioned, budget-friendly, and totally gorgeous.
If there’s one thing I love about Christmas decorating, it’s when the house smells as good as it looks. And nothing says cozy homemade Christmas like dried orange slices strung up with twine, tucked into wreaths, or catching the light in a sunny window. They’re simple, beautiful, and give off that perfect old-world holiday charm we all secretly crave.
Plus, they’re cheap. Like “I already had everything I needed in my kitchen” kind of cheap. So if you’re looking to add a handmade touch to your holiday decorating this year, let’s talk about why dried oranges deserve a starring role.
Why Dried Oranges?
Because they’re:
- Natural: No plastic, no glitter, no landfill guilt.
- Fragrant: When you dry them, the citrusy oils linger in the sweetest way.
- Timeless: Think Little Women meets your favorite Pinterest board.
- Versatile: Use them in garlands, ornaments, table settings, gift wrap—you name it.
- Easy to make: Like, you could do it while baking cookies easy.
How to Make Dried Orange Slices
You only need two things:
- Oranges (navels or blood oranges work best)
- An oven or dehydrator
Step-by-Step:
- Preheat oven to 200°F (95°C). Low and slow is the name of the game.
- Slice oranges thinly (about 1/8″ thick). The thinner, the quicker they’ll dry and the more light they’ll let through when hanging.
- Blot them with paper towels to remove excess juice.
- Lay slices on a wire rack or parchment-lined baking sheet. If you want both sides to dry evenly and get that pretty glassy look, flip them halfway through.
- Bake for 3–4 hours, checking every so often. You’re looking for that chewy leather feel, not crisp chips.
- Let them cool completely before using or storing.
Pro tip: Add a few slices of lemon or grapefruit into the mix for color variety.
Ways to Use Dried Oranges in Christmas Decor
1. Garlands & Swags
String your dried orange slices with twine, jute, or even thin ribbon. Alternate with:
- Cinnamon sticks
- Cranberries (threaded with a needle and fishing line)
- Bay leaves or eucalyptus
- Wood beads
Hang on your mantel, drape over a mirror, or run it along your dining table for a natural centerpiece.
2. Tree Ornaments
Dried oranges look magical with twinkle lights glowing behind them. Simply poke a hole at the top of the slice (a skewer works great) and tie with twine. Bonus points if you add:
- A clove in the center
- A small bow of raffia or ribbon
- A mini tag with a handwritten word like “joy” or “peace”
3. Wreath Accents
Tuck dried orange slices into evergreen wreaths for a classic European feel. Secure them with floral wire or hot glue. Pair them with:
- Pinecones
- Cinnamon bundles
- Dried star anise
- Faux berries or dried cranberries
They pop beautifully against dark green pine.
4. Gift Toppers
Upgrade plain kraft paper or cloth wrapping with a slice of dried orange, a sprig of rosemary, and a bit of twine. Looks like you spent hours on it—but really, you just raided your kitchen.
5. Table Decor
Scatter orange slices down the center of your table with candles, pine branches, and walnuts. Or nestle one into each napkin ring for a sweet, citrusy touch.
You can also fill a bowl with slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and dried apples for a homemade potpourri vibe.
6. Window Decor
Hang a few from suction hooks in your kitchen or living room window. When the light hits just right, they glow like little stained glass suns.
How to Store Them
Once dry, oranges can last for years if stored properly. Just keep them:
- In an airtight container
- In a cool, dry place
- Separated by parchment to prevent sticking
If they ever feel a bit sticky or soft, just pop them back in the oven for 30 minutes to refresh them.
Bonus: Make It Smell Like Christmas
While your oranges dry, toss in some extras on a separate tray:
- Apple slices
- Cinnamon sticks
- Whole cloves
- Star anise
- Sprigs of rosemary or pine
When it’s all said and done, your house will smell like the inside of a Christmas market in Bavaria—and that’s not an exaggeration.
Final Thought
Dried orange slices are proof that you don’t need to spend a lot (or leave the farm) to make your home feel festive. They’re humble, beautiful, and full of charm. And maybe best of all—they’re the kind of decoration you’ll actually want to make a tradition.
So go ahead…slice up a few oranges, turn on a Christmas playlist, and let the cosy crafting begin.
