Homemade Orange Candy – A Sweet Citrus Treat to Share Recipe

Introduction

Homemade Orange Candy is a delightful sweet treat bursting with fresh citrus flavor. This easy-to-make candy combines the bright zest and juice of oranges with a smooth, chewy texture that’s perfect for sharing or gifting.

Ingredients

• 3 medium oranges
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup corn syrup
• 1 tablespoon gelatin
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (optional, for dusting)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Zest the outer peel of the oranges to capture their oils, then juice them until you have about 3/4 cup of fresh orange juice.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, water, granulated sugar, and corn syrup. Heat over medium, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer, about 5 minutes.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
4. Step 4: Add the bloomed gelatin to the simmering syrup mixture, stirring until fully dissolved. Stir in the orange zest and butter if using, then cook for another 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens to a honey-like consistency.
5. Step 5: Pour the thickened candy mixture into a greased or lined 8×8-inch dish. Let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for 4-6 hours or overnight until set.
6. Step 6: Once set, remove the candy from the dish, cut into pieces, and dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian option, replace gelatin with agar-agar using the same quantity.
• If you prefer a dairy-free candy, omit the butter or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
• Use honey instead of corn syrup to add a subtle floral sweetness and prevent crystallization.
• Dusting with confectioners’ sugar helps prevent the candy pieces from sticking together.

Storage

Store the orange candy in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two weeks. If refrigerated, allow the candy to come to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture. Avoid storing in humid conditions to prevent stickiness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

Fresh orange juice provides the best flavor and aroma, but you can use bottled juice in a pinch. Make sure it is 100% juice and unsweetened for the best results.

How can I prevent my candy from sticking together?

Dusting the cut candy pieces with confectioners’ sugar helps prevent them from sticking. Storing the candy in a cool, dry place inside an airtight container also reduces stickiness.

Homemade Orange Candy – A Sweet Citrus Treat to Share Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 145 reviews

This Homemade Orange Candy recipe offers a delightful citrus-flavored treat that combines fresh orange juice and zest with a sweet, chewy texture. Perfect for sharing or gifting, this candy is crafted with simple ingredients and a straightforward method that yields a vibrant, flavorful confection.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 30 pieces 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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For the Candy Base

• 3 medium Oranges – fresh, for zest and juice
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1/2 cup Corn Syrup (can substitute honey if needed)
• 1 tablespoon Gelatin (or agar-agar for vegetarian option)
• 1/4 cup Water
• 1 tablespoon Butter (optional for enhanced flavor and texture)

For Dusting (Optional)

• 1 cup Confectioners’ Sugar

Instructions

1. Zest & Juice Oranges: Start by zesting the outer peel of the oranges carefully to capture their fragrant oils, then juice the oranges until you have approximately 3/4 cup of fresh orange juice. This juice will serve as the flavorful base of your candy.
2. Prepare the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, 1/4 cup water, granulated sugar, and corn syrup. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture begins to simmer. This process should take around 5 minutes.
3. Bloom Gelatin: In a separate mixing bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it rest for about 5 minutes to bloom. This step is essential to ensure the gelatin dissolves properly and gives the candy its chewy texture.
4. Combine Mixtures: Once the syrup is simmering, add the bloomed gelatin to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the gelatin has fully dissolved. Then add the orange zest and the optional butter, cooking the mixture for another 5 to 10 minutes until it thickens to a honey-like consistency.
5. Set the Candy: Pour the thickened candy mixture into a greased or lined 8×8-inch dish. Allow it to cool at room temperature briefly, then refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours, or preferably overnight, until the candy sets firmly.
6. Cut & Dust: Once set, carefully remove the candy slab from the dish and cut it into your desired-sized pieces. Dust the candy pieces with confectioners’ sugar to prevent sticking and add a sweet finish, if desired.

Notes

• Use fresh oranges for maximum flavor and vibrant aroma.
• Do not substitute granulated sugar with alternatives to maintain texture.
• Corn syrup can be replaced with honey but may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
• Gelatin is required to achieve the chewy consistency; use agar-agar for a vegetarian-friendly option but expect a firmer texture.
• The optional butter adds richness but can be omitted for dairy-free versions.
• Dusting with confectioners’ sugar helps keep pieces from sticking together.
• Store the candy in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

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