Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe

Ever had candy so citrusy and sweet that it feels like a sunshine hug for your taste buds? Classic Homemade Orange Candy is just that – a juicy, chewy delight that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also whisks you away to sunny orchards with every bite. What makes this recipe special? It’s surprisingly simple and requires just a handful of ingredients, all cooked up in one pan! This candy is perfect for gifting, snacking, or sprucing up your desserts.

Why Make This Recipe

Why step into the world of homemade candy, you ask? Here are a couple of reasons that might tickle your taste buds:

• Easy Cleanup: Seriously, who wants a mountain of dishes? One saucepan and a wire rack!
• Affordable: With just a few oranges and basic pantry staples, your wallet won’t mind this sweet endeavor.
• Family-Friendly: Little hands love to assist in slicing and rolling, making it a fun activity for all ages! 😉

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 3 small oranges or tangelos (about 18–20 slices)
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 3 cups water

Directions

Let’s get that candy magic started! Follow these steps:

1. Slice oranges into ¼-inch rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline. Watch those fingers!
2. In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat until sugar dissolves and the syrup begins to boil.
3. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Add orange slices in a single layer. Simmer for 45–60 minutes, turning occasionally, until the peel is translucent.
4. Remove slices with tongs and arrange them on a wire rack. Let them dry uncovered at room temperature for 24–48 hours until they’re tacky but set.
5. Optional: Roll in sugar for a frosted finish, or dip in melted chocolate and sprinkle with flaky salt. Yum!

How to Make Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe (Overview)

Making this candy is as easy as pie! Start with slicing your oranges – think of it as a nice little workout for your upper arms. Then, simmer those juicy slices in the sugar-water bath until they turn translucent and spectacular. After that, let them dry, and you’ve got yourself a treat that smells as good as it tastes. Pro tip? Don’t rush the drying process; it’s worth the wait for that perfect chew!

How to Serve Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe

These orange candies make an eye-catching treat! Serve them on a rustic platter next to some dark chocolate or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. They glisten like little jewels and have that fantastic sweet-and-citrusy aroma that fills the room. You could even chop them up and toss them into a cake or a salad for a pop of color and flavor!

How to Store Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe

Once your homemade orange candy is dried and ready, it can last for up to two weeks in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully! Just layer them in a ziplock bag with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, no need for reheating—just defrost and dig in!

Tips to Make Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe

Here are a few insider tricks to elevate your orange candy game:

• Use fresh oranges for the best flavor. Tangelo adds a lovely twist too if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Keep an eye on that simmering syrup – burnt sugar isn’t delicious sugar. 😅
• Try different sugars like coconut sugar or brown sugar for a unique twist.
• If you find the candy too chewy, slice the oranges a tad thinner next time.

Variation

Feeling experimental? Here are some easy variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of ginger or cinnamon to the syrup for a warm twist.
• Herb it up: Try infusing the syrup with rosemary or thyme for a unique flavor combo.
• Make it vegan: Ditch the chocolate rolling option and just go for sugar!

FAQs

1. Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! You can try the same method with lemons, limes, or even apples for a refreshing twist.

2. How long does it take to dry?
It usually takes 24-48 hours at room temperature, depending on humidity. Be patient; good things come to those who wait!

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This candy keeps well, making it a great make-ahead treat for holiday gifts or gatherings.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Classic Homemade Orange Candy

A juicy, chewy delight of homemade orange candy that captures the essence of sunny orchards in every bite. Perfect for gifting, snacking, or adding to desserts.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 12 pieces

Course: Candy, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 60

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 3 small oranges or tangelos (about 18–20 slices) Fresh oranges for the best flavor, tangelos add a lovely twist.
• 3 cups granulated sugar You can try different sugars like coconut sugar or brown sugar for a unique twist.
• 3 cups water Essential for making the syrup.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Slice oranges into ¼-inch rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline. Watch those fingers!

Cooking

1. In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat until sugar dissolves and the syrup begins to boil.
2. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Add orange slices in a single layer.
3. Simmer for 45–60 minutes, turning occasionally, until the peel is translucent.
4. Remove slices with tongs and arrange them on a wire rack. Let them dry uncovered at room temperature for 24–48 hours until they’re tacky but set.
5. Optional: Roll in sugar for a frosted finish, or dip in melted chocolate and sprinkle with flaky salt.

Notes

Once dried, these candies can last for up to two weeks in an airtight container at room temperature. They freeze well too. Layer them in a ziplock bag with parchment paper to prevent sticking.