Description
This classic homemade orange candy recipe delivers chewy, zesty citrus bites made from real orange juice and zest, coated in sugar for a nostalgic sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 4–5 oranges)
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cups granulated sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine orange juice, lemon juice, orange zest, sugar, and salt. Stir to mix.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth.
- Slowly add the cornstarch slurry to the boiling mixture while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy (about 10–15 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter until fully incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined square baking dish and let it cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
- Cut the candy into small squares and toss in granulated sugar to coat.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature with layers separated by parchment paper.
Notes
- For a stronger flavor, use freshly squeezed juice and organic zest.
- Use a candy thermometer if desired, but it’s not necessary.
- Make sure the mixture is thick before removing from heat or the candy won’t set properly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Protein: 0.1g
- Cholesterol: 1mg
