This Easy Homemade Orange Candy Recipe delivers a burst of bright citrus flavor that is far superior to anything you can buy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create chewy, vibrant candies that are perfect for gifting or a sweet homemade treat. For another simple, seasonal dish, try this Winter Farro & Kale Salad Recipe.

Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe

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Author: Olivia Bennett

Ingredients

Scale

2 large fresh oranges (for juice and zest)
2 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup corn syrup
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon butter
1 packet unflavored gelatin
1 teaspoon orange extract (optional)
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
A pinch of salt (optional

Instructions

Zest the oranges to collect the outer peel and set it aside. Juice the oranges until you have about 3/4 cup of fresh juice. Set both the zest and juice aside for later use.
In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh orange juice, water, sugar, and corn syrup. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Once dissolved, bring the mixture to a simmer.

Allow the syrup to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to concentrate the orange flavor. The mixture should begin to thicken slightly.
In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes. After the gelatin has softened, add it to the simmering orange syrup and stir until fully dissolved.

Add the butter and orange zest to the syrup and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes. Stir constantly to prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan.
Once the mixture has thickened to a honey-like consistency, remove it from the heat. Let it cool to room temperature for about 1-2 hours.

Pour the cooled mixture into a lightly greased 8×8-inch dish or silicone candy molds. Allow it to set at room temperature for 1-2 hours, then refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or until completely firm.
Once the candy has set, remove it from the dish or molds. Cut it into bite-sized pieces. For extra flair, dust the pieces with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Serve and enjoy your homemade Old Fashioned Orange Candy

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bottled orange juice for this Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe?

We recommend using fresh orange juice and zest for the most vibrant, authentic citrus flavor. Bottled juice often lacks the essential oils and bright taste needed for this old-fashioned orange candy. The fresh ingredients are key to achieving the classic, intense orange flavor.

Why is my orange candy too soft or sticky after cooling?

This usually means the sugar syrup did not reach the proper hard-crack stage (300°F / 149°C). Use a reliable candy thermometer and avoid stirring the syrup once it begins to boil. Achieving the correct temperature is crucial for the perfect firm yet chewy texture in your Classic Homemade Orange Candy.

How should I store this candy, and how long does it last?

Store the fully set and cut pieces in an airtight container at room temperature, with parchment paper between layers. Properly stored, this old-fashioned orange candy will stay fresh and maintain its texture for 2 to 3 weeks, keeping its delightful citrus flavor.

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Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe Easy