Print

Homemade Orange Candy Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 52 reviews

Homemade Orange Candy is a delightful sweet citrus treat that captures the vibrant aroma and fresh flavor of real oranges. This candy combines fresh orange juice and zest with a smooth, chewy texture achieved through gelatin, making it a perfect shareable indulgence. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this candy is a refreshing alternative to traditional sweets, ideal for citrus lovers.

Ingredients

Scale

Orange Candy Ingredients

  • 3 medium Oranges (use fresh for maximum flavor and vibrant aroma)
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar (sweetens to perfection, no substitutions recommended)
  • 1/2 cup Corn Syrup (prevents crystallization; can be replaced with honey if necessary)
  • 1 tablespoon Gelatin (provides structure and firmness; agar-agar can be substituted for a vegetarian option)
  • 1/4 cup Water (for dissolving sugar and blooming gelatin; no substitutions needed)
  • 1 tablespoon Butter (enhances flavor and texture; optional for dairy-free version)
  • 1 cup Confectioners’ Sugar (for dusting over cut candy to prevent sticking and add sweetness)

Instructions

  1. Zest & Juice Oranges: Start by zesting the outer peel of the oranges carefully to capture their aromatic oils. Then juice the oranges until you have approximately 3/4 cup of fresh orange juice, which will form the flavorful base for the candy.
  2. Prepare the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, 1/4 cup of water, granulated sugar, and corn syrup. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture begins to simmer, about 5 minutes.
  3. Bloom Gelatin: In a separate small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes, letting it absorb the liquid and become jelly-like. This step ensures the candy will have the perfect chewy texture.
  4. Combine Mixtures: Once the syrup is simmering and sugar is dissolved, add the bloomed gelatin to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the gelatin fully dissolves into the mixture. Add the orange zest and, if using, the butter. Continue cooking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, stirring regularly, until the mixture thickens to a honey-like consistency.
  5. Set the Candy: Pour the thickened orange candy mixture into a greased or lined 8×8-inch dish. Let it cool to room temperature briefly before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for 4 to 6 hours or overnight to allow the candy to fully set and firm up.
  6. Cut & Dust: Once set, carefully remove the candy from the dish. Cut it into your desired shapes or sizes using a sharp knife. To finish, lightly dust the pieces with confectioners’ sugar to add sweetness and prevent sticking.

Notes

  • Use fresh oranges for the best flavor and aroma; bottled juice will not yield the same results.
  • Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization and creates a smooth texture but can be replaced with honey if needed, though the texture might slightly differ.
  • For a vegetarian alternative, substitute gelatin with agar-agar, adjusting blooming and dissolution steps accordingly.
  • The butter is optional; omit for a dairy-free candy, but it adds richness to the flavor and texture.
  • Ensure the candy mixture reaches a honey-like thickness before setting to achieve the ideal chewy consistency.
  • Store the finished candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator; it should keep well for up to two weeks.

Keywords: orange candy, citrus candy, homemade candy, chewy candy, orange zest candy, sweet citrus treat

Find it online: https://spatulaqueen.com/homemade-orange-candy-recipe/