Fresh citrus is wonderful in a simmer pot, but sometimes you have more fruit than you can use before it starts to dry out.

That’s where homemade dried citrus slices come in.

Drying citrus is an easy way to preserve beautiful slices that can be stored for months and used in simmer pots, gift jars, holiday blends, and your own simmer pot pantry.

Whether you use your oven, a dehydrator, or an air fryer with a dehydrate setting, the process is simple and the results are well worth the effort.

Which Citrus Works Best?

Almost any citrus fruit can be dried.

Great choices include:

Oranges

Lemons

Limes

Grapefruit

Each one adds its own color, fragrance, and personality to your simmer pots.

Preparing the Fruit

Wash the fruit well and dry it completely.

Slice the citrus into even slices about ¼ inch thick. Consistent slices dry more evenly than thick or uneven pieces.

Remove any seeds you find before drying.

Method 1 – Oven Drying

This is the easiest method because most people already have an oven.

Arrange the slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap.

Dry them at the lowest oven temperature, usually between 170°F and 200°F (75°C to 95°C).

Turn the slices every hour until they’re completely dry.

Depending on the thickness of your slices and your oven, drying usually takes 4 to 8 hours.

Method 2 – Food Dehydrator

Arrange the slices in a single layer on the trays.

Set the dehydrator to approximately 125°F to 135°F (52°C to 57°C).

Dry until the slices are firm and no moisture remains.

Most citrus takes 8 to 12 hours.

Method 3 – Air Fryer with Dehydrate Setting

Many newer air fryers include a dehydrate function.

Arrange the slices in a single layer and follow the manufacturer’s recommended temperature and drying time.

Because every model is different, begin checking the slices early and continue drying until they are completely dry.

How Do You Know They’re Ready?

Properly dried citrus should feel completely dry without any soft or damp spots.

If moisture remains, continue drying a little longer.

Taking the extra time helps prevent mold during storage.

Storing Dried Citrus

Allow the slices to cool completely.

Store them in an airtight glass jar or sealed container in a cool, dry place.

Properly dried citrus can often be stored for several months.

Gigi Says…

I don’t worry about making a huge batch all at once.

If I have a few extra oranges one week or a couple of lemons the next, I’ll dry them and add them to my simmer pot pantry.

Little by little, you’ll build a beautiful collection that’s ready whenever inspiration strikes.

Ways to Use Homemade Dried Citrus

Add slices to simmer pots.

Create seasonal simmer pot blends.

Fill DIY simmer pot gift jars.

Decorate holiday gift packages.

Add a natural touch to wreaths and seasonal displays.

Continue with Your Next Step

Now that you’ve learned how to dry citrus, you’re ready to Build a Simmer Pot Pantry, where we’ll organize dried ingredients, pantry staples, and everything you’ll need to create simmer pot blends all year long.

Keep Smiling,

Gigi