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Classic Homemade Orange Candy

Classic Homemade Orange Candy

Classic Homemade Orange Candy is a delightful and easy-to-make treat featuring a perfect balance of tangy orange flavor and sweetness. Made with simple ingredients like fresh orange juice, zest, sugar, butter, and corn syrup, this chewy candy delivers a bright and refreshing citrus burst ideal for snacking or gifting.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: About 40 small pieces 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients ahead of time and zest the orange, keeping the zest separate from the juice. Fresh orange juice and zest create the signature flavor, so priority on freshness matters.
  2. Combine Sugar, Corn Syrup, and Orange Juice: In a heavy-bottom saucepan, mix granulated sugar, corn syrup, and fresh orange juice. Stir these together over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble gently.
  3. Boil to Hard Ball Stage: Attach a candy thermometer to the pan and let the mixture cook without stirring until it reaches about 250°F (hard ball stage). This is the perfect consistency for chewy candy once cooled.
  4. Add Butter, Orange Zest, and Salt: Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in unsalted butter, orange zest, and a pinch of salt. The butter enriches the candy, and the zest enhances the citrus aroma beautifully.
  5. Pour and Cool: Pour the hot candy mixture onto a buttered baking sheet or silicone mat. Spread it evenly and allow it to cool completely at room temperature until firm.
  6. Cut and Store: Once cooled, cut the candy into bite-sized pieces with a sharp knife. Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh.

Notes

  • Use fresh orange juice and zest for the most authentic and vibrant flavor.
  • Monitor temperature closely with a candy thermometer to reach the hard ball stage precisely.
  • Butter your utensils and baking surface to prevent sticking.
  • Work quickly after adding butter and zest; pour the mixture immediately before it hardens.
  • Store candy in an airtight container to maintain chewiness and prevent moisture absorption.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop Candy Making
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 10g)
  • Calories: 50
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Fat: 1.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0.4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
  • Fiber: 0.1g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 3mg

Keywords: orange candy, homemade candy, citrus candy, chewy candy, classic candy recipe, orange zest candy