DIY Dried Orange Slices Garland
Make a beautiful, old-fashioned Christmas garland using dried orange and apple slices, fresh rosemary, cinnamon sticks, and jute twine. A simple, inexpensive decoration for your mantel or Christmas tree.
Servings 1
Cost $7-10
Equipment
- Sharp knife or mandoline
- Cutting Board
- Food dehydrator or baking sheets
- Paper Towels
- Skewer or large needle (if needed)
Ingredients
- Jute string
- Dried Orange slices about 4 oranges
- Dried Apple slices about 4 apples
- Springs of rosemary
- Cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Prepare the oranges: Wash and cut the oranges crosswise into ⅛ to ¼-inch slices. Remove seeds and pat dry with paper towels.
- Dry the oranges:Arrange in a single layer and dry in the oven at 170°F–175°F for approximately 4–8 hours, turning occasionally. Or use a dehydrator at 135°F for 6–12 hours. Cool completely.
- Prepare the apples: Wash and slice the apples crosswise into ⅛ to ¼-inch rounds. Remove seeds. If desired, soak in a mixture of water, lemon juice, and salt for 5–10 minutes to reduce browning. Drain and pat dry.
- Dry the apples: Arrange in a single layer and dry in the oven at approximately 170°F for 4–8 hours or in a dehydrator at 135°F for 6–12 hours. Cool completely.
- Prepare the garland: Cut a length of jute twine slightly longer than the space you want to decorate. Gather the dried fruit, rosemary sprigs, and cinnamon sticks.
- Attach the oranges: Thread the twine through a small opening in an orange slice. Make a loop behind the slice, slip a rosemary sprig through it, and pull snug to secure.
- Add apples and cinnamon: Repeat with an apple slice, securing a cinnamon stick through the loop. Continue alternating fruit, rosemary, and cinnamon until the garland reaches your desired length.
- Hang the garland: Secure both ends with removable hooks or suitable fasteners. Adjust the fruit slices so they hang naturally.
Notes
- Drying times vary depending on fruit thickness and equipment. All slices should be completely dry before assembling.
- Store leftover dried fruit in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
- Fresh rosemary will gradually dry out after the garland is assembled.
- Keep the finished garland away from open flames and hot fireplace surfaces.
- Store in a dry location and check carefully for moisture or mold before reusing.
