If you’re putting together homemade gifts this year, these dried citrus slices are a simple way to add a personal, stylish touch. Pack them in a small jar or cellophane bag with a ribbon and they instantly become a thoughtful, handmade add-on for cocktail lovers. They’re pretty, practical, and smell amazing too.
You should make these because they’re easy to batch, long-lasting, and perfect for gifting alongside a bottle of spirits or tucked into a DIY cocktail kit. They show effort without being complicated, and they look great every time. Bonus: your kitchen will smell like a citrus grove while they bake.
Helpful Tips
- Choose brightly colored, unblemished citrus for the best visual impact. Use a serrated knife for clean, even slices. This helps prevent tearing delicate citrus.
- Add a label with drink pairing ideas to make the gift extra helpful.
- Let them cool completely before storing to avoid trapped moisture.
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Dried Citrus Cocktail Garnishes
Ingredients
- 1 large orange sliced 1/4” thick
- 1 large lemon sliced 1/4” thick
- 1 lime sliced 1/4” thick
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. You might need 2 to accommodate all the slices.
- Lay the citrus slices flat on a baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Dry them in the oven for about 2 to 3 hours, flipping halfway through. They should be dry but still vibrant in color.
- You can also use a dehydrator or air fryer with a dehydrate mode to dry the citrus.
- Once dried, store them in an airtight container or ziptop bag.
Nutrition
When not mixing up delicious cocktails to enjoy on the patio with friends, Angela is busy writing about food and drinks for three popular food websites, and exchanging creative ideas on social media.