Golden-brown, caramelized oranges are a unique twist on traditional citrus desserts. This quick 11-minute recipe transforms fresh oranges into a warm, indulgent treat that’s surprisingly healthy at just 102 calories per serving.
With a perfect balance of natural sweetness and a hint of crispiness, these fried oranges deliver a burst of vitamin C and fiber while satisfying your dessert cravings. It’s an elegant yet simple way to elevate your everyday fruit into something extraordinary.
Fresh Citrus Delights – Ingredients
- Navel Oranges: 2 medium-sized, fresh and firm oranges for best results
- Natural Sweetener: 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for a golden caramelization
- Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon to add warmth and aroma
Simple Preparation Steps
- Prepare the Oranges: Slice the oranges cleanly in half for even cooking
- Create the Glaze: Mix honey (or maple syrup) with ground cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined
- Brush with Love: Generously brush the honey-cinnamon mixture onto the orange flesh (save extra for serving)
- Position for Success: Place oranges in air fryer basket with flesh facing upward
- Air Fry to Perfection: Cook at 400°F for 5-8 minutes until nicely browned and heated through
- Serve with Joy: Present immediately while warm and aromatic
Serving Suggestions
These warm, cinnamon-honey oranges make a wonderful light dessert or breakfast treat! Try them on top of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert, or serve them alongside Greek yogurt for a cozy morning meal. The caramelized honey and warm cinnamon create a lovely sauce that you can spoon over the top. For a fancy touch, add a small sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a mint leaf on top just before serving.
Quick Variations
Want to switch things up? Try these simple twists:
- Use different citrus fruits like grapefruit or tangerines
- Swap the cinnamon for cardamom or nutmeg
- Add a tiny pinch of sea salt to bring out the sweetness
- Use brown sugar instead of honey for a deeper flavor
- Add a splash of vanilla extract to the honey mixture
Helpful Tips
This simple recipe works best with oranges that are ripe but still firm. If your oranges are very juicy, pat the cut surface gently with a paper towel before adding the honey mixture – this helps the coating stick better. Keep an eye on them during the last minute of cooking, as the honey can brown quickly. The oranges should be warm throughout but still hold their shape.
Fried Oranges
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 2 medium navel oranges
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Slice the oranges in half.
- Add the honey and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Stir to combine.
- Brush the honey mixture onto the oranges. You may not need all of the honey, but you can save it to drizzle on later.
- Place the oranges in the air fryer basket with the flesh facing up.
- Air fry at 400°F/200°C for 5-8 minutes, until the oranges are starting to brown and the flesh is hot. Serve immediately.
