Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe
This Classic Homemade Orange Candy recipe delivers a delightful citrus-flavored treat made from fresh oranges and simple pantry ingredients. The candy boasts a chewy, jelly-like texture balanced by a bright, zesty orange flavor enhanced with a touch of butter and gelatin. Perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet indulgence, this easy-to-make candy recipe combines natural fruit essence with the perfect sweetness and texture.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: About 40 small pieces 1x
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Orange Candy Ingredients
- 2 large fresh oranges (zested and juiced)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 packet unflavored gelatin (about 7 grams)
- 1 teaspoon orange extract (optional)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
- A pinch of salt (optional)
- Prepare Oranges: Wash the oranges thoroughly. Zest the outer peel, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith. Then juice the oranges to extract fresh orange juice, measuring approximately 1/2 to 3/4 cup.
- Bloom Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the packet of unflavored gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom and fully absorb the water.
- Make Sugar Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, remaining 1/4 cup water, and a pinch of salt. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves completely.
- Add Orange Juice and Zest: Once the sugar syrup is clear, add the freshly squeezed orange juice and orange zest. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add Gelatin and Butter: Reduce heat to low and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Next, add the butter and stir until melted and incorporated, which adds smoothness and richness to the candy.
- Optional Flavoring: Remove from heat and stir in orange extract if using, to intensify the orange flavor.
- Pour & Set: Pour the hot mixture into a greased or parchment-lined shallow pan. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until firm enough to cut into shapes.
- Cut and Dust: Once set, cut the candy into bite-sized squares or desired shapes. Optionally dust with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- Store Properly: Store the candies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Ensure the gelatin is fully bloomed before adding to prevent lumps in the candy.
- Adjust the cooking time slightly to get firmer or softer candy based on preference.
- For a more intense orange flavor, use a higher quality fresh orange juice or natural extracts.
- Dusting with powdered sugar is optional but helps keep candies from sticking.
- Use a sharp knife lightly oiled or dipped in hot water to get clean cuts.
Keywords: orange candy, homemade candy, fruit jelly candy, citrus candy, gelatin candy