So much Citrus!

10 Wonderful Ways to Use New Zealand’s Citrus Bounty This Winter

Winter in New Zealand brings with it a glorious abundance of citrus—lemons, limes, oranges, mandarins, and grapefruits bursting from backyard trees and farmers’ market stalls. Whether you’ve got an overflowing fruit bowl or baskets of fruit ripening faster than you can eat them, now is the perfect time to embrace seasonal citrus in creative and delicious ways. Here are ten beautiful ways to make the most of your citrus harvest, from recipes to homesteading projects.

1. Make Lemon Curd

Rich, tangy, and utterly addictive, lemon curd is a winter favourite. All you need is lemons, sugar, eggs, and butter. Spread it on toast, spoon it into yoghurt, fill tart shells, or swirl through vanilla ice cream. It also makes a gorgeous homemade gift when bottled and tied with a ribbon.

2. Preserve with Citrus Marmalade

Marmalade is a classic way to preserve citrus and brighten winter mornings. Use a mix of oranges, lemons, or grapefruits for depth of flavour. Simmer peel and fruit with sugar until it sets, then store in jars. Pair it with sourdough toast or use as a glaze on meats. Our marmalade at VC is loved by everyone, we even send it overseas!

3. Dry Citrus Slices for Decoration

Slice lemons, oranges, or limes thinly and dry them in a low oven or dehydrator. These slices make beautiful natural decorations for winter wreaths, mulled wine garnishes, or simple table décor. Store in an airtight jar for use throughout the season. They might also be delicious in a G&T

4. Freeze Citrus Juice & Zest

Don’t let your citrus go to waste—juice it and freeze in ice cube trays for later use in cocktails, dressings, or baking. Zest can also be frozen in small ziplock bags and used to brighten dishes when fresh citrus isn’t available.

5. Create a Citrus All-Purpose Cleaner

Harness the natural oils in citrus peels to create an effective and fresh-smelling household cleaner. Fill a jar with citrus peels and cover with white vinegar. Let it sit for 2–3 weeks, then strain and dilute with water. It’s perfect for benchtops, bathrooms, and glass.

6. Bake a Winter Citrus Cake

A citrus upside-down cake or a moist lemon drizzle loaf is the perfect way to celebrate seasonal fruit. Try incorporating blood oranges, mandarins, or even grapefruit for something a little different. The natural oils and juice add moisture and fragrance to any batter. Check out our Orange and Sour Cream cake!

7. Infuse Local Olive Oil or Vinegar

Add citrus peels to a good-quality New Zealand olive oil or apple cider vinegar for an aromatic twist. Store in a cool dark place for a few weeks to infuse, then drizzle over salads, grilled fish, or roasted vegetables.

8. Make Candied Citrus Peel

A zero-waste treat! Simmer citrus peel in sugar syrup, then roll in sugar and dry. Candied peel is perfect for nibbling, baking into scones or biscotti, or gifting in jars with ribbon. It’s a great way to use up the whole fruit.

9. Brew a Homemade Citrus Herbal Tea

Dry citrus peels and mix them with dried mint, chamomile, or rosemary for a soothing winter tea blend. Store in a glass jar and steep in hot water whenever you need a vitamin C boost or a moment of calm.

10. Start a Citrus-Inspired Firelighters Basket

If you’re lucky enough to have a fire or outdoor brazier, dried citrus peels make fantastic natural firelighters. The oils in the peels burn slowly and smell divine. Keep a basket near the fire and add peels throughout winter for an eco-friendly burn.

Citrus is a gift of the winter season—bright, fragrant, and full of possibilities. Whether you’re baking, preserving, cleaning, or crafting, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the bounty growing in New Zealand gardens. So gather those lemons, grab your zester, and make the most of every last orange. Your pantry, your home, and your tastebuds will thank you.