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Orange peel is the outer colored layer of the skin of the [ingredient=orange orange], which, like all hesperide fruits, is thick, bumpy, and studded with oil-producing glands. Commonly used in both cooking and baking, orange peel can also be candied, used as a garnish, or expressed over the top of a cocktail to provide an aromatic punch to the drink. If the orange peel is cut into small pieces, especially with a citrus zester, it is usually referred to as zest.

An orange spiral is a long twist of orange peel, typically cut using a channel knife. Orange spirals are almost always used as a garnish, and can be hung from the rim of a cocktail glass in a decorative fashion.

Orange oil is made up of almost 90% limonene, a monoterpene aromachemical with a typical orange aroma. There are also small amounts of Bergaptene and Myrcene as well. 

Some popular cocktails containing Orange peel

  • The Civil Litigation — Brandy, Aquavit, Caperitif, Licor 43, Averna, Grapefruit bitters, Orange peel
  • New Jersey Transit — Bourbon, Bitters, Orange bitters, Apple cider, Demerara syrup, Orange peel
  • Witch Hazel — Pumpkin Seasonal Spirit, Trifecta Bitters, Brown Sugar Simple syrup, Orange peel
  • White Light / White Heat — Corn Whiskey, Bianco Vermouth, Orange bitters, Candied ginger, Orange peel
  • Pickwick Club — Pineapple rum, Overproof rum, Allspice Dram, Bitters, Absinthe, Passion fruit syrup, Vanilla syrup, Orange peel
  • The Antioxidant — Cranberry Vodka, Aperol, Tangerine juice, Simple syrup, Lime juice, Strawberry, Orange peel
  • Hell Haggerty — Islay Scotch, Apple brandy, Amaro, Cinnamon syrup, Orange peel
  • Tough as Nails — Blended Scotch, Drambuie, Amaro, Herbal liqueur, Orange peel
  • High Chicago — Apricot eau-de-vie, Mastika, Pineau des Charentes, Curaçao, Suze, Kummel, Orange peel
  • Dark Trilogy — Amargo-Vallet, Pedro Ximénez Sherry, Fernet Vallet, Orange peel