Why You’ll Love Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe
This recipe is incredibly simple and uses minimal ingredients, yet delivers a vibrant, chewy candy with rich citrus flavor. These candied orange slices are versatile enough for snacking, baking, cocktails, or gifting, and they keep well for up to a month.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 small oranges or tangelos (about 18–20 slices)
3 cups granulated sugar
3 cups water
Directions
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Slice oranges into thin ¼‑inch rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline for uniform pieces.
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In a large skillet or saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium‑high, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to boil.
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Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Add the orange slices in a single layer (a slight overlap is okay). Simmer 45–60 minutes, turning occasionally, until the peel turns translucent.
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Remove slices with tongs and lay them in a single layer on a wire rack. Allow to dry at room temperature, uncovered, for 24–48 hours, until tacky but set like gummy candy.
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Optional finishes: roll in granulated sugar for a frosted look or dip in melted chocolate and sprinkle with flaky salt for a sweet‑salty twist.
Servings and timing
Makes: 18–20 candied orange slices
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Drying time: 24–48 hours
Total time: ~1 day 1 hour 10 minutes (includes drying time)
Storage/Reheating
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 1 month, separating layers with parchment to avoid sticking. Refrigeration is optional but not necessary, and freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture. Any leftover orange‑infused syrup can be saved in the fridge for drinks or desserts.
FAQs
Why are my candied orange slices soggy?
If they are soggy, they likely weren’t simmered long enough. Continue cooking until the peel looks translucent.
Do these need refrigeration?
No, properly stored candied orange slices are shelf‑stable at room temperature.
How long do they last?
They will keep well for at least one month when stored in an airtight container.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar?
Reducing sugar will affect preservation and texture; the sugar syrup is essential to candy the oranges.
Why do small oranges work best?
Smaller oranges hold their shape better during simmering and make neater slices.
Can I use different citrus fruits?
Yes, you can substitute lemons, limes, blood oranges, or even persimmons for variation.
What if my syrup caramelized?
If it caramelizes, remove the slices, rinse the pan, and start again with fresh sugar and water, keeping the heat lower.
Can I dip these in chocolate?
Yes, dipping in melted chocolate adds a delicious flavor contrast.
How can I make these look frosted?
After drying, roll the slices in granulated sugar for a sparkling, frosted appearance.
Is there another use for the leftover syrup?
Yes, use the orange‑infused syrup in sparkling water, cocktails, or cakes.
Conclusion
This classic orange candy recipe transforms fresh citrus into vibrant, chewy treats perfect for snacking, gifting, or decorating desserts and drinks. With minimal ingredients and an easy process, these candied orange slices bring brightness and elegance to any occasion.
Classic Homemade Orange Candy
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: About 40 small candies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic homemade orange candy recipe offers a sweet, citrusy treat with a chewy texture, perfect for gifting or snacking. Made with fresh orange juice and zest, it’s a nostalgic and flavorful confection.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (from about 4–5 oranges)
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Powdered sugar (for coating, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare a square baking dish by lining it with parchment paper and lightly greasing it.
- In a saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 250°F (hard ball stage).
- Once it reaches temperature, remove from heat immediately and pour into the prepared dish.
- Allow the candy to cool and set at room temperature for at least 2–3 hours or until firm.
- Once set, remove from the dish and cut into small squares using a sharp knife.
- Optionally, toss the candy pieces in powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
- You can adjust the sweetness by slightly reducing the sugar, but it may affect texture.
- Ensure candy reaches the right temperature for proper setting.
- Store in a cool, dry place to prevent melting or stickiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pieces
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
