Homemade Orange Candy Recipe

Hi, I’m Sam from dishfoody.com, where simple ingredients turn into delightful treats. If you’re tired of store-bought candies full of artificial flavors, this Homemade Orange Candy recipe offers a bright, sweet, and tangy confection that’s fully natural and easy to make at home.

Perfect as gifts, party favors, or personal indulgence, these candies capture the fresh essence of oranges in every bite. With years of recipe crafting experience, I bring you a straightforward method to create vibrant orange-flavored candies with a perfect chewy texture. Here’s everything you need: ingredient selection, step-by-step instructions, flavor tips, and storage advice.

Why This Recipe Works

• Uses real orange juice and zest for authentic citrus flavor
• Incorporates sugar and corn syrup to create the right chewy texture
• Simple ingredients with straightforward candy-making technique
• Affordable and easy ingredients
• No special equipment needed beyond a candy thermometer
• Customizable sweetness and flavor intensity

Ingredients & Prep

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ½ cup fresh orange juice (strained)
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated orange zest
• 2 teaspoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• Additional granulated sugar or powdered sugar for coating

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare a baking sheet by lining with parchment paper and lightly greasing it or dusting with sugar.
2. In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, orange juice, and orange zest. Stir gently to mix.
3. Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan and heat mixture over medium heat, without stirring, until it reaches 250°F (hard-ball stage).
4. Remove from heat; quickly stir in butter and vanilla extract until fully combined.
5. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and spread thinly with an offset spatula.
6. Allow candy to cool and set at room temperature for 20-30 minutes.
7. Once firm, cut into small squares or break into bite-sized pieces. Optionally, toss pieces in granulated or powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Orange: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a sweet-spicy kick.
• Sweet & Tart: Incorporate lemon or lime juice along with orange for complexity.
• Global Influences:
  • Moroccan: Add a sprinkle of rose water or orange blossom water.
  • Italian: Use blood orange juice and a touch of amaretto extract.
  • American: Add vanilla and toasted nuts for texture contrast.

Storage Tips

Store candies in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks. Avoid humidity to prevent stickiness.

FAQs

• Can I use bottled orange juice? Fresh is best for flavor and zest.
• How do I fix crystallized candy? Avoid stirring while heating and ensure clean utensils.
• Is this candy gluten-free? Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Savor the bright, natural flavors of this Homemade Orange Candy a sweet treat made simple that’s perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself. For more sweet delights, visit dishfoody.com and try our No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake next!