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Old Fashioned Orange Candy

Old Fashioned Orange Candy

Old Fashioned Orange Candy is a nostalgic, chewy candy bursting with vibrant citrus flavor from fresh orange juice and zest. This classic, chewy treat balances sweetness and tang perfectly, offering a soft yet firm texture that’s both refreshing and timeless. Ideal for gifting, parties, or personal indulgence, it brings a burst of sunshine in every bite.

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

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Orange food coloring (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and measure them precisely. Have your orange juice freshly squeezed and zest ready to go, as freshness is key to the bright flavor.
  2. Combine Sugar and Corn Syrup: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, mix granulated sugar with light corn syrup. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely, avoiding boiling too rapidly to prevent crystallization.
  3. Add Orange Juice and Zest: Slowly stir in the fresh orange juice and zest to infuse the mixture with natural citrus aroma and tang. Bring it to a boil while stirring occasionally so flavors meld together beautifully.
  4. Cook to Soft-Ball Stage: Using a candy thermometer, cook the mixture until it reaches approximately 235-240°F (113-116°C). This soft-ball stage ensures the candy will have that chewy yet firm texture everyone loves.
  5. Stir in Butter and Vanilla: Remove the pan from heat and quickly add butter and vanilla extract. Stir vigorously to combine, which enriches the candy and tones down any harsh sweetness.
  6. Pour and Set: Pour the mixture onto a buttered parchment paper or silicone mat and spread evenly. Let the candy cool and set at room temperature until firm but pliable.
  7. Cut and Enjoy: Once cooled, cut the candy into bite-sized pieces or fun shapes. Store in an airtight container and savor the old-fashioned delight!

Notes

  • Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control to achieve the perfect chewy texture and avoid graininess.
  • Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest greatly enhance the brightness and authenticity of the flavor.
  • Stir gently and avoid splashing sugar crystals on the sides of the pan to prevent crystallization.
  • Stir quickly and thoroughly when adding butter after removing from heat to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
  • Cool the candy on non-stick surfaces like parchment paper or silicone mats for easy removal and cleanup.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Candy
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece (about 10g)
  • Calories: 50
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 5mg
  • Fat: 1g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0.3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
  • Fiber: 0.1g
  • Protein: 0.1g
  • Cholesterol: 2mg

Keywords: old fashioned candy, orange candy, chewy candy, citrus candy, homemade candy, nostalgic candy, orange zest candy