Description
“Make your own old-fashioned orange candy with this simple recipe! Featuring fresh orange juice, sugar, and a touch of zest, this nostalgic citrus treat is perfect for gifts, holidays, or satisfying your sweet tooth. 🍊✨”
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ½ teaspoon orange extract (optional)
- ½ teaspoon citric acid or lemon juice
- A few drops of orange food coloring (optional)
- Powdered sugar or granulated sugar (for coating)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Candy Mixture
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, corn syrup, and orange juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
-
Cook the Candy
- Insert a candy thermometer and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring.
- Boil until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), about 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and quickly mix in orange zest, orange extract, citric acid, and food coloring.
-
Pour and Cool
- Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
- Let it cool completely (about 1 hour) until hardened.
-
Cut and Coat
- Break into small pieces using a knife or hammer. Alternatively, pour into candy molds before setting.
- Toss in powdered sugar or granulated sugar to prevent sticking.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Refrigeration extends shelf life to 1 month but may cause stickiness.
- Soft Version: Reduce cooking temperature to 250°F for a chewier texture.
- Lollipop Option: Pour into silicone lollipop molds and insert sticks before cooling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- cooling time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Homemade orange candy, citrus candy, hard candy recipe, nostalgic candy, old-fashioned candy