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Classic Homemade Orange Candy

Classic Homemade Orange Candy
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Classic Homemade Orange Candy is a sweet and tangy treat bursting with fresh citrus flavor. Made with simple pantry staples like sugar, fresh orange juice, and butter, this candy delivers a nostalgic and refreshing confection that’s fun to make and perfect for gifting. Whether you are an experienced candy maker or a beginner, this recipe offers a bright and flavorful twist to your dessert collection.

Ingredients

Scale

Basic Ingredients

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2/3 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: a few drops of orange food coloring

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients and measure them precisely. Make sure your fresh orange juice and orange zest are ready. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or prepare candy molds for shaping the candy later.
  2. Combine Sugar, Corn Syrup, and Water: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, blend the sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Avoid stirring after the mixture begins to boil to prevent graininess.
  3. Bring Mixture to the Hard Crack Stage: Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan and allow the mixture to boil until it reaches approximately 300°F (149°C), known as the hard crack stage, which is essential for perfect candy texture.
  4. Add Orange Juice, Zest, and Butter: Remove the pan from heat and carefully stir in the fresh orange juice, orange zest, butter, and a pinch of salt. The mixture will bubble vigorously—this step infuses the candy with vibrant orange flavor and richness. Add food coloring if desired.
  5. Pour and Cool: Quickly pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared baking tray or into candy molds. Let it cool completely at room temperature until fully hardened and set.
  6. Cut and Store: Once cooled, break or cut the candy into bite-sized pieces. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and chewiness.

Notes

  • Use a candy thermometer for accuracy to achieve the perfect candy texture.
  • Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest make the biggest flavor difference.
  • Do not stir the sugar mixture once it starts boiling to avoid crystallization.
  • Pour the mixture immediately after removing from heat, as candy sets fast.
  • Dust your workspace with powdered sugar or cornstarch before cutting to prevent stickiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: orange candy, homemade candy, citrus candy, sweet and tangy candy, holiday candy, classic candy recipe, gluten free candy

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/classic-homemade-orange-candy/