Growing up, my grandma always had a secret stash of homemade orange candy tucked away in her kitchen cabinet. Whenever we’d visit, she’d sneak me a piece, and I’d savor the burst of citrusy sweetness that would instantly melt on my tongue. To this day, the memory of that delightful treat brings a smile to my face.
That’s why I’m so excited to share my own recipe for Homemade Orange Candy. It’s a nostalgic recipe that captures the essence of my grandma’s classic confection, but with a modern twist. Trust me, once you try this easy-to-make candy, it’ll become a new family favorite.
Why This Homemade Orange Candy Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Homemade Orange Candy
The secret to this Homemade Orange Candy recipe lies in the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. By using freshly squeezed orange juice and zest, we’re able to capture the vibrant, authentic taste of oranges that you just can’t achieve with store-bought extracts or flavorings.
The other key is the simple, yet effective cooking method. Unlike some candy recipes that require precise temperature control and constant stirring, this one is a breeze. With just a few minutes of hands-on time, you’ll end up with a batch of chewy, melt-in-your-mouth orange candies that will have your family and friends begging for more.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Homemade Orange Candy, you’ll need just three simple ingredients:
- 2 large oranges, juiced and zested: This provides the fresh, natural orange flavor that’s the star of the show. The juice adds moisture and sweetness, while the zest contributes a lovely citrus aroma.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: The sugar is what gives the candy its signature sweetness and chewy texture. It helps balance out the tartness of the orange juice.
- 1/4 cup water: A small amount of water is added to the sugar and orange juice to help dissolve the sugar and create the perfect candy consistency.
With these three key components, you’ll be well on your way to creating a batch of irresistible Homemade Orange Candy.
Step-by-Step Homemade Orange Candy Instructions
Preparing Your Homemade Orange Candy
Preparing this Homemade Orange Candy recipe couldn’t be easier. With a total time of just 35 minutes (15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking), you can have a delicious batch ready in no time. All you’ll need is a saucepan, a candy thermometer, and a few simple tools.
1- Start by juicing and zesting your 2 large oranges. You’ll want to get about 1/4 cup of fresh orange juice and 2 tablespoons of zest.
2- In a medium saucepan, combine the 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of water. Heat the mixture over medium, stirring frequently, until the sugar has fully dissolved and the mixture is bubbling.
3- Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring and let the mixture come to a boil. Continue cooking, without stirring, until it reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
4- Carefully remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the freshly squeezed orange juice and zest. The mixture will bubble and steam, so be cautious.
5- Pour the hot candy mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, using a spatula to spread it into an even layer.
6- Allow the Homemade Orange Candy to cool completely, then break it into bite-sized pieces and serve.
Pro Tips for Success
Here are a few pro tips to ensure your Homemade Orange Candy turns out perfectly every time:
- Use fresh, ripe oranges for the best flavor. The zest and juice will make all the difference.
- Be very careful when working with the hot sugar mixture. It can easily cause burns, so use caution and have all your tools ready to go.
- Don’t stir the sugar mixture after it comes to a boil. Stirring can cause the candy to crystalize.
- Keep a close eye on the temperature and remove the mixture from the heat as soon as it reaches 300°F. Letting it go even a few degrees higher can result in a burned, bitter flavor.
Serving and Storing Your Homemade Orange Candy
Perfect Pairings for Homemade Orange Candy
This Homemade Orange Candy is the perfect sweet treat to enjoy on its own or pair with a variety of other flavors. At 16 servings, it’s great for sharing with family and friends.
For a refreshing contrast, try serving the orange candy alongside a cup of hot black tea or a glass of cold milk. The bright citrus notes will complement the robust tea flavors or balance the richness of the milk.
You could also sprinkle the orange candy over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. The creamy, cold ice cream will melt together with the chewy, sweet candy for a truly decadent experience.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Homemade Orange Candy is a great make-ahead treat that stores well. Once the candy has cooled completely, you can transfer it to an airtight container and keep it at room temperature for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, you can also freeze the orange candy. Place the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. The frozen candy will keep for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen candy, simply let it thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften them up.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Homemade Orange Candy
Creative Homemade Orange Candy Variations
While the classic Homemade Orange Candy recipe is a true delight, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Here are a few fun variations to try:
- Chocolate-Dipped Orange Candy: Melt some high-quality dark chocolate and dip the orange candy pieces into it for a decadent twist.
- Spiced Orange Candy: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg to the sugar mixture for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Citrus Medley Candy: Use a combination of orange, lemon, and lime zests and juices for a vibrant, mixed-citrus experience.
- Orange Creamsicle Candy: Swirl in a bit of vanilla extract or even some melted white chocolate for a creamy, nostalgic flavor.
Making Homemade Orange Candy Diet-Friendly
If you’re looking to make this Homemade Orange Candy recipe a bit more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can try:
For a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free sugar in place of the regular granulated sugar. This won’t affect the texture or flavor at all.
To make it vegan, swap the granulated sugar for an equal amount of coconut sugar or maple sugar. You may also need to use a vegan-friendly water in place of the regular water.
And for a low-carb spin, you can try using a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Just be sure to adjust the measurements accordingly, as these alternative sweeteners can be more intense in flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use orange juice from a carton instead of freshly squeezed?
A: While store-bought orange juice will work in a pinch, I highly recommend using freshly squeezed juice for the best flavor and aroma. The natural oils and acidity in fresh-squeezed oranges make a big difference in the final candy.
Q: How long does it take to make this Homemade Orange Candy?
A: The total time to make this recipe is 35 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time.
Q: Can I store the Homemade Orange Candy in the freezer?
A: Yes, the orange candy freezes very well. Once cooled, you can place the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Homemade Orange Candy recipe yields 16 servings.
Q: What should I do if the candy gets too hard or brittle?
A: If the orange candy turns out too hard, it likely means the temperature got too high during cooking. Next time, be sure to remove the mixture from the heat as soon as it reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer. You can also try adding a tablespoon or two of water to the hot mixture to soften it up.
Homemade Orange Candy
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 16 servings
Description
Indulge in the bright, citrusy flavors of these Homemade Orange Candies. Perfectly sweet and tangy, these easy-to-make candies are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
– 2 large oranges, juiced and zested
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, zest, sugar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes or until it reaches the hard candy stage (300°F on a candy thermometer).
4. Carefully pour the hot candy mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Allow the candy to cool completely, then break it into bite-sized pieces.
Notes
– For a more intense orange flavor, use 3-4 oranges.
– Store the Homemade Orange Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Homemade Orange Candy is a delightful treat that will transport you right back to grandma’s kitchen. With its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, chewy texture, and vibrant citrus aroma, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
I hope you’ll give this Homemade Orange Candy a try. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and the results are simply mouthwatering. Let me know how it turns out for you in the comments below, and be sure to share your own tips and variations. Enjoy!
