How To Make Dried Orange Christmas Decorations

When I first started making dried orange decorations, it was during the early days of the 2020 lockdown. Like so many of us, I was searching for simple, mindful activities to fill my time and bring a little brightness into my home. Little did I know that these charming slices of sunshine would become a lasting part of my Christmas traditions.

Even now, years later, I’m still using some of those very same dried oranges! When stored properly, they can last for years, retaining their beautiful golden glow and that warm citrusy scent through many festive seasons.

In this post, I’ll share how I make dried orange decorations and some of the creative ways I love to use them—on the Christmas tree, in garlands, decorating the table, embellishing gifts, and even as a lovely touch to napkin decor using Raahi Living’s hand-block printed linens.

What You’ll Need

Fresh oranges and grapefruits (any variety will do, but medium-sized ones work best)
A sharp knife
Baking paper
A baking tray
An oven

How to Make Dried Oranges

Slice the Oranges
Start by slicing your oranges into thin rounds, about 3-5mm thick. Try to keep them as even as possible so they dry uniformly.
Pat Them Dry
Use a clean tea towel or kitchen roll to gently pat the slices dry. This step helps speed up the drying process in the oven.
Prepare Your Tray
Line a baking tray with baking paper and arrange the slices in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t overlapping.
Bake Low and Slow
Preheat your oven to 90°C (200°F). Bake the slices for around 3-4 hours, turning them every 30-40 minutes. This ensures even drying and prevents browning. Your kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly—like a cosy blend of citrus and Christmas cheer!
Cool Completely
Once the slices are fully dried (they should feel leathery but not sticky), allow them to cool completely.

How I Use Them

On the Christmas Tree
Thread a bit of twine or ribbon through the centre of the dried slices and hang them on your tree. Their natural beauty adds a rustic, elegant touch to your Christmas decorations.
Napkin Decor
One of my favourite ways to use these oranges is as napkin decor. Pair them with a sprig of greenery or a cinnamon stick, and tuck them into one of our hand-block printed napkins. It’s such a simple but thoughtful detail that makes any table setting feel extra special.
Gift Wrapping
Add a dried orange slice to your wrapped gifts using brown paper and string for a beautifully natural and sustainable finish. It’s a lovely way to make your presents stand out under the tree.
Table Centrepieces
Scatter dried orange slices along the centre of your dining table with candles, pinecones, and a touch of greenery for an effortlessly festive tablescape.
In Garlands
Thread together the dried oranges and mix with beads and tassels to create garlands.

Storage Tips

After Christmas, I carefully store my dried oranges in an airtight container, layering them with baking paper to prevent them from breaking. Keep them in a cool, dry place, and they’ll be ready to use again next year.

Making these decorations has become more than just a craft—it’s a tradition I hold dear. Each slice carries memories of those quiet, creative moments during lockdown, and now they bring warmth and joy to my home year after year.