Simple Broiled Orange with Cinnamon
This simple broiled orange with cinnamon offers a warm, comforting, and naturally sweet dessert or snack, transforming a humble orange into a fragrant treat with minimal effort and no added sugar.
For 1 serving
Preheat your broiler to high. Position an oven rack about 6 inches (15 cm) from the heating element.
Wash the orange thoroughly. Carefully slice the orange in half crosswise, creating two round halves.
Place the orange halves, cut-side up, on a small, oven-safe baking sheet or a cast-iron skillet.
Evenly sprinkle the 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon over the cut surfaces of both orange halves.
Carefully transfer the baking sheet to the preheated broiler. Broil for 5-7 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
The oranges are ready when the edges are slightly caramelized, the fruit is softened, and the kitchen is filled with a fragrant, warm aroma. Some parts may appear slightly browned or bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute or two before serving. Serve warm, perhaps with a spoon to scoop out the softened fruit.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose Wisely: Select a ripe, firm orange that feels heavy for its size, indicating juiciness. Navel oranges work particularly well due to their sweetness.
- 2Broiler Vigilance: Broilers can be very powerful. Keep a close eye on the oranges, as cooking times can vary significantly between ovens. A minute too long can turn them from perfectly caramelized to burnt.
- 3Rack Position Matters: Placing the rack too close will burn the oranges quickly, while too far will prevent proper caramelization. Aim for 4-6 inches from the heat source.
- 4Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch, a small dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream can be served alongside, though this deviates from the 'no added sugar' and 'low calorie' aspect if not chosen carefully.
Adapt it for your goals.
Sweetener Addition
For those who prefer a sweeter treat, drizzle 1-2 teaspoons of honey or maple syrup over the orange halves before broiling.
Spice BlendSpice Blend
Experiment with other warm spices like a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or a tiny dash of ginger powder along with the cinnamon for a more complex flavor profile.
Citrus SwapCitrus Swap
This technique can also be applied to other citrus fruits like grapefruit (though it might require a touch of sweetener to balance bitterness) or even blood oranges for a beautiful color.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Immune Support
Oranges are an excellent source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and promotes skin health.
Digestive Health
The fiber in oranges aids in digestion, helps maintain bowel regularity, and contributes to a feeling of fullness, which can assist with weight management.
Cellular Protection
Both oranges and cinnamon are packed with antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body, protecting cells from damage and reducing inflammation.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, a toaster oven with a broiler setting can work perfectly for broiling orange halves. Just ensure the rack is positioned appropriately and monitor closely as toaster ovens can heat up very quickly.
