Moroccan Cinnamon Spiced Oranges: A Classic North African Dessert
Moroccan cinnamon spiced oranges are a traditional North African dessert that’s light, healthy, and full of flavor. This elegant dish features sliced oranges soaked in a warm spiced syrup of cinnamon and vanilla, making it perfect for Shabbat, holidays, or a refreshing end to any meal.
Why We Love Moroccan Cinnamon Spiced Oranges
This dish highlights the natural sweetness of fresh oranges enhanced by aromatic spices. Often served across Moroccan homes and Sephardic tables, these spiced oranges are as beautiful to present as they are delicious to eat. Best of all, it’s gluten-free, vegan, kosher, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 5 seedless oranges
- 1 vanilla pod
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, or to taste
- 1–2 tablespoons water
How to Make These Oranges
1. Prepare the Syrup
Juice one orange into a small saucepan. Add the cinnamon stick, vanilla pod, and water. Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes to infuse flavor.
2. Slice the Oranges
Peel the remaining oranges, removing all white pith. Slice into thin ¼-inch rounds and arrange on a serving platter.
3. Assemble and Serve
Drizzle the cooled spiced syrup over the orange slices. Sprinkle with ground cinnamon. Serve chilled for best results.
Tips & Variations
- Add chopped pistachios or fresh mint for extra color and flavor.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for deeper flavor.
- Use blood oranges for a dramatic twist on the traditional look.
Final Thoughts
Moroccan cinnamon spiced oranges transform simple ingredients into an unforgettable dessert. With minimal effort, this dish brings the warmth of Moroccan spice to your table — naturally kosher, refreshing, and full of heritage.
Moroccan Spiced Oranges
DESCRIPTION
INGREDIENTS
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 5 oranges (preferably seedless)
- 1 vanilla pod
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon (to taste)
INSTRUCTIONS
INSTRUCTIONS
- Meanwhile, peel the remaining oranges. Use a knife to get all the pith (white membrane) off.
- Cut one of the oranges in half and squeeze the juice into a small saucepan together with the measured water and the spices. Bring it to a low simmer and then remove from the heat and leave to steep and cool for 15 minutes.
- Cut the oranges in 1/4-inch thin slices and arrange on a large plate.
- Pour the spiced orange juice over the orange slices. Serve with some extra cinnamon sprinkled on top.
See more dessert recipes here.
