If you’ve ever bitten into a chewy, sweet, tangy treat that tickles your taste buds and brightens your day, then you’re going to love this Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe. It’s a delightful way to transform fresh citrus into luscious, jewel-like slices of candy that balance vibrant orange flavor with just the right amount of sweetness and chew. Whether you want to keep a batch for yourself or share a charming edible gift, this recipe is an absolute joy from start to finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building that perfect texture and flavor—no fancy add-ins required. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before getting started:
- 3 small oranges or tangelos: Choose firm, fresh oranges as they are the star of the show and provide both flavor and chewiness.
- 3 cups granulated sugar: Essential for creating the luscious syrup that sweetens and preserves the fruit slices.
- 3 cups water: Helps dissolve the sugar and gently cooks the orange slices to candied perfection.
How to Make Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Orange Slices
Start by slicing your oranges or tangelos into thin, uniform ¼-inch rounds. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline will help ensure even thickness, which is key for consistent cooking and an attractive final look. These slices are your candy canvas, so take your time here!
Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup
Combine the granulated sugar and water in a saucepan and heat gently until the sugar dissolves completely. Once the syrup begins to boil, you’ll know it’s ready for the magic. This syrup is the foundation that turns fresh orange slices into irresistible candy.
Step 3: Simmer the Orange Slices
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, then carefully add the orange slices to the syrup in a single layer. Let them cook for 45 to 60 minutes, turning them occasionally. As they simmer, the slices will become translucent and tender while absorbing the sweet syrup. This is where the real transformation happens.
Step 4: Dry the Candied Oranges
Using tongs, remove the slices from the syrup and place them on a wire rack to dry at room temperature. Leaving them uncovered allows the moisture to evaporate slowly, creating the ideal tacky yet set texture. Patience is key—this drying stage can take 24 to 48 hours, so plan accordingly.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Once your candy is tacky but set, the fun begins. You can roll the slices in sugar for a frosted, sparkling look, or dip them into melted chocolate sprinkled with flaky sea salt for a sophisticated twist. Both options elevate this Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe into a show-stopping treat.
How to Serve Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a light dusting of granulated sugar or a drizzle of dark chocolate can enhance the candy’s appeal. Flaky sea salt sprinkled on the chocolate-dipped slices adds a wonderful flavor contrast that will surprise and delight your guests.
Side Dishes
These candies pair wonderfully with afternoon tea or coffee, making them a perfect sweet side to your favorite brews. They also work well alongside soft cheeses like mascarpone or ricotta, offering a balance to savory flavors during dessert courses.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or party presentations, arrange the candied orange slices elegantly on a decorative plate or place them in small cellophane bags tied with colorful ribbons. You could also layer them with cookies or nuts in a pretty gift box, creating a festive and thoughtful homemade treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly kept, the candies will retain their chewy texture and delicious flavor for up to two weeks, making them a fabulous make-ahead treat.
Freezing
If you want to keep these candies longer, freezing is a great option. Place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months without losing their texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen orange candies, let them thaw at room temperature before serving. Resist the urge to microwave, as this can alter their texture. The candies taste best when enjoyed as they are, fresh or thawed.
FAQs
Can I use lemons or limes instead of oranges?
Absolutely! While this recipe is designed for oranges or tangelos, lemons and limes can also be candied using the same technique. Just expect a more tart flavor and possibly a slightly different texture.
What type of sugar is best for this recipe?
Granulated white sugar works perfectly to create the clear, glossy syrup needed to candy the fruit. Avoid using brown sugar as it will change the color and flavor of the candy.
Why do I need to dry the slices for 24 to 48 hours?
The drying period allows excess moisture to evaporate, which sets the candy’s chewy texture and prevents it from becoming overly sticky or soggy. Patience here results in the perfect consistency.
Can I make these candies vegan-friendly?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan since it only uses fruit, sugar, and water. Just be cautious if you choose toppings like chocolate—select vegan chocolate if needed.
How long does the cooking process take?
The simmering step usually takes between 45 to 60 minutes, but it can vary depending on your stove and slice thickness. The key is to cook until the slices are translucent and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe is a treasure that brings a burst of sunshine into your kitchen. It’s straightforward, delicious, and endlessly versatile—perfect for candy lovers and home cooks alike. So grab some fresh oranges and dive into this joyful, sweet adventure. You won’t regret it!
Print
Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 25-49 hours (including drying time)
- Yield: 18-20 slices
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Classic Homemade Orange Candy recipe transforms fresh orange slices into sweet, translucent treats simmered to perfection in a simple sugar syrup. With a delightful balance of citrus flavor and sugary sweetness, these candied oranges make a charming snack or a beautiful garnish for desserts. The recipe involves careful simmering, drying, and optional finishing touches such as rolling in sugar or dipping in chocolate for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 small oranges or tangelos (about 18–20 slices)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 3 cups water
Instructions
- Slice Oranges: Slice the oranges into ¼-inch rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline to ensure even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Prepare Sugar Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the syrup begins to boil.
- Simmer Orange Slices: Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and carefully place the orange slices in a single layer in the syrup. Simmer for 45 to 60 minutes, turning the slices occasionally to ensure even cooking, until the orange peel becomes translucent and soft.
- Drain and Dry: Using tongs, remove the orange slices from the syrup and arrange them on a wire rack. Allow them to dry uncovered at room temperature for 24 to 48 hours until they feel tacky but firm to the touch.
- Optional Finishing: For a decorative and flavorful finish, roll the dried slices in granulated sugar for a frosted look, or dip them in melted chocolate and sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a sweet and salty contrast.
Notes
- Use organic oranges if possible to avoid pesticides since you will be eating the peel.
- Ensure even slicing for consistent texture and appearance.
- Drying time may vary depending on humidity; ensure the slices are tacky but not sticky before storing.
- Store candied oranges in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- These candied slices make excellent garnishes for cakes, cocktails, or cheese boards.
