Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 84 reviews
  • Author: Matteo
  • Total Time: 7 hours (including setting time)
  • Yield: Approximately 30 bite-sized candies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A delightful Classic Homemade Orange Candy recipe that transforms fresh orange juice and zest into chewy, flavorful candies with a perfect balance of sweetness and citrus tang. Made with simple ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, gelatin, and butter, these candies are easy to make at home and ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth with a refreshing twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Orange Base Ingredients

  • 2 large fresh oranges (for juice and zest)
  • 1 teaspoon orange extract (optional)
  • A pinch of salt (optional)

Syrup and Gelatin

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 packet unflavored gelatin
  • 1/4 cup cold water (for blooming gelatin)

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oranges: Zest the oranges carefully to collect the outer peel and set aside. Juice the oranges until you have about 3/4 cup of fresh juice. Set both the zest and juice aside for later use.
  2. Make the Sugar Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh orange juice, water, granulated sugar, and corn syrup. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  3. Simmer the Mixture: Let the syrup simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to concentrate the orange flavor. The mixture should start to thicken slightly during this time.
  4. Prepare the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it bloom for approximately 5 minutes. Once softened, add the gelatin to the simmering orange syrup and stir until it completely dissolves.
  5. Add Butter and Zest: Stir in the butter and orange zest to the syrup mixture. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking and to evenly incorporate the flavor.
  6. Cool the Mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat once the mixture has thickened to a honey-like consistency. Allow it to cool at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours.
  7. Pour and Set: Lightly grease an 8×8-inch dish or prepare silicone candy molds. Pour the cooled mixture into the dish or molds and let it set at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours. Then refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours until completely firm.
  8. Cut and Serve: Once set, remove the candy from the dish or molds and cut into bite-sized pieces. Optionally, dust the candies with powdered sugar to prevent sticking and add a decorative touch.
  9. Enjoy: Serve your delicious homemade Old Fashioned Orange Candy and savor the fresh, tangy-sweet flavors.

Notes

  • Using fresh oranges is essential to get a bright and natural citrus flavor.
  • Orange extract is optional but enhances the orange aroma.
  • Powdered sugar dusting helps prevent candies from sticking together.
  • Make sure to dissolve the gelatin fully to avoid any grainy texture.
  • Store candies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
  • The cooking time can vary slightly based on the stove and pan used.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Candy
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: orange candy, homemade candy, citrus sweets, gelatin candy, old fashioned candy, chewy candy, easy candy recipe

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

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