Juicing 101: The Best Oranges For Juicing

ByChristopher Posted on Updated on

Wondering what the best oranges for juicing are? The sweetest, juiciest varieties for homemade orange juice include Valencia, Navel, Cara Cara, and Blood oranges. While all citrus contains juice, certain types are far better suited for juicing based on their sweetness, pulp level, and juiciness. Keep reading to learn which oranges are best, how to prepare them, and tips from a recipe developer and lifestyle expert who’s been squeezing oranges at home for years.

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Welcome to Your Most Delicious Glass of Homemade Juice

Let me tell you — I’ve made a lot of fresh squeezed orange juice in my kitchen over the years. As a recipe developer who works with food brands (and also a slightly obsessed home cook), I’ve squeezed everything from tiny mandarins to giant sumo oranges… and not all citrus is created equal when it comes to juicing.

I used to think all oranges would make great juice. But after too many mornings with dry oranges or a bitter aftertaste, I got serious about finding the best juice oranges. Now? I’ve got a go-to list of varieties I keep stocked all citrus season long — and I’m sharing all of it with you here.

Whether you’re making fresh squeezed orange juice for brunch, a citrus vinaigrette, or a splash in a cocktail, this guide will help you pick the sweetest, juiciest, and most flavorful oranges every time.

What Makes an Orange Great for Juicing?

Not all oranges were meant to be juiced. The best oranges for juicing share a few key qualities:

  • High juice content
  • Low seed count (or seedless)
  • Thin skin and soft membranes
  • Naturally sweet flavor
  • Minimal bitterness

Best Oranges for Juicing (My Personal Favorites)

1. Valencia Oranges (The Juicing Classic)

Valencia oranges are the gold standard for juicing. They’re incredibly juicy, sweet, and available from late spring to early fall. These are the oranges used in most commercial orange juices — but fresh squeezed? Even better.

Why I love them

They’re practically bursting with sweet juice, have few seeds, and produce that perfect sunny-orange color. My weekend ritual always includes a batch of fresh squeezed Valencia orange juice — nothing store-bought compares.

2. Navel Oranges (Great for Quick Juicing)

Available almost year-round, navel oranges are super sweet and easy to find. They’re best used for immediate consumption because the juice can turn slightly bitter over time due to a compound called limonin.

Pro tip

Use your fresh squeezed navel orange juice right away — it’s perfect for mimosas, salad dressings, and citrus marinades.

3. Cara Cara Oranges (My Secret Citrus Crush)

If you haven’t tried juicing Cara Cara oranges yet, you’re in for a treat. These pink-fleshed oranges are a type of navel, but with lower acidity and a slightly floral, berry-like flavor.

Why they’re special

Cara Cara oranges have a balanced, mellow sweetness and make a stunning pink-hued juice that looks beautiful in clear glasses. I always keep a few in my fruit bowl during winter for both juicing and snacking.

4. Blood Oranges (For Color and Bold Flavor)

These dramatic oranges have a deep red flesh and bold, slightly tart flavor — a bit like raspberries meet orange. While not as juicy as Valencia or Cara Cara, they add complexity and color to any juice blend.

Favorite way to use

I mix blood orange juice with sparkling water, a little lime, and mint for a refreshing afternoon mocktail.

5. Mandarin Oranges (Clementines, Satsumas)

Small but mighty, mandarin oranges are intensely sweet and nearly seedless. While it takes a few to make a full glass of juice, the flavor is worth it — vibrant, candy-like, and super kid-friendly.

Tip from my kitchen

These are ideal when I want a sweet hit of citrus in vinaigrettes or mixed with other orange varieties.

6. Minneola Tangelos

These hybrid citrus fruits (a cross between grapefruit and tangerine) are so juicy and have a slight tangy bite. Their signature “nipple” makes them easy to identify, and their juice is bright and refreshing.

Best for

Blending into cocktails or smoothies where you want a sweet-sour balance.

7. Sumo Oranges (Juicy but Pricey)

Sumo oranges are giant, bumpy, and extremely sweet with lots of juice. They’re easy to peel and usually seedless, but they’re on the pricier side — so I tend to save these for special occasions or when they’re in season.

Pro tip

Use them in small-batch squeezed orange juice recipes or citrus-forward desserts.

How to Choose the Sweetest, Juiciest Oranges at the Store

Not all oranges are equal — even within the same variety. Here’s how I pick the best ones:

  • Go heavy for their size – That means more juice inside.
  • Smooth, thin skin – Thick skin often means less juice.
  • Avoid blemishes or soft spots – These may be signs of decay.
  • Sniff test – A sweet-smelling orange usually means sweet juice.

Kitchen tip

Buy citrus when it’s in season (typically winter through early spring for navel, Cara Cara, and blood oranges; late spring/summer for Valencia). Fresh, in-season oranges always taste better.

How to Prepare Oranges for Juicing

Here’s how I prep my oranges for the freshest, most flavorful juice:

  1. Wash the orange thoroughly — especially if you’re using a hand juicer.
  2. Roll it on the counter with your palm — this loosens the juice inside.
  3. Cut in half crosswise, then juice with your preferred method:
    • Hand-held citrus squeezer
    • Electric juicer
    • Manual reamer
    • Stand juicer (if you’re fancy!)

Pro tip

Room temperature oranges yield more juice than cold ones. Let them sit out for 30 minutes before juicing.

How to Make Orange Juice at Home (My Go-To Method)

Making fresh squeezed orange juice at home couldn’t be easier:

Ingredients

  • 4–6 large juice oranges (like Valencia or Cara Cara)
  • Optional: splash of lemon or lime juice for brightness

Instructions

  1. Wash and roll oranges on a flat surface.
  2. Cut and juice.
  3. Strain through a mesh sieve if you prefer pulp-free juice.
  4. Serve immediately for best flavor and nutrition.

I love garnishing mine with a sprig of mint or a twist of citrus peel — even a pinch of sea salt for an elevated touch.

FAQs About Juicing Oranges

What’s the best variety of orange for juicing?

Valencia oranges are the top choice for juice due to their high juice content, balanced sweetness, and minimal bitterness.

Are navel oranges good for juicing?

Yes — but they’re best enjoyed fresh. Drink navel orange juice immediately to avoid bitterness from limonin.

Are Cara Cara oranges good for juicing?

Absolutely! They’re sweet, low-acid, and have a gorgeous pink-orange hue.

Can you juice mandarin oranges?

Yes, but they’re small — you’ll need several for a full glass. They’re great for mixing with other oranges.

How much juice do you get from one orange?

On average, one large orange yields about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of juice, depending on the variety and freshness.

Some Other Juice Recipes You’ll Love

Final Thoughts From My Kitchen

Juicing at home is one of those simple pleasures that makes every morning feel a little more special. With the right oranges — whether it’s sweet Valencia, stunning Cara Cara, or bold blood oranges — your glass of fresh squeezed juice becomes something truly memorable.

As someone who’s built a career around helping people fall back in love with cooking, I truly believe that the best recipes start with the best ingredients. Choosing the right oranges for juicing is one of those small choices that can have a big impact — not just on flavor, but on your whole day.

So grab your citrus, give it a good roll on the counter, and let the juicing begin.

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