Description
This Classic Homemade Orange Candy recipe offers a delightful citrus-flavored treat made from fresh orange juice and zest, sugar, and gelatin for a chewy, fruity candy. Enhanced with a touch of butter and optional orange extract, this confection is perfect for candy lovers seeking a fresh and flavorful homemade sweet.
Ingredients
Scale
Orange Candy Ingredients
- 2 large fresh oranges (zested and juiced)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 packet unflavored gelatin (about 7 grams)
- 1 teaspoon orange extract (optional)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Zest and juice the oranges to obtain fresh orange flavor and set aside separately. Measure out sugar, corn syrup, water, gelatin, butter, and optional orange extract.
- Bloom Gelatin: Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over about 1/4 cup of the orange juice to let it soften, then set aside to bloom while you prepare the syrup.
- Cook Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, a pinch of salt, and the remaining orange juice. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Attach a candy thermometer and continue to cook without stirring until the syrup reaches approximately 245°F (soft-ball stage).
- Add Gelatin and Butter: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Add the butter and stir gently to incorporate. If using, add the orange extract for enhanced flavor.
- Pour and Set: Pour the candy mixture into a lightly buttered or parchment-lined square or rectangular pan. Allow it to cool at room temperature until firm and set, which can take several hours or overnight.
- Cut and Dust: Once set, turn the candy out onto a cutting surface and cut into bite-sized pieces. Optionally, dust the pieces with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- Store: Store the orange candies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be enjoyed over the next week or so for best freshness.
Notes
- Using fresh orange juice and zest ensures a bright, natural citrus flavor.
- Monitor candy temperature carefully with a candy thermometer for perfect texture.
- Optional orange extract intensifies the orange flavor but can be omitted.
- Dusting with powdered sugar prevents sticking but may add extra sweetness.
- Store in a cool, dry place and consume within a week for optimal taste and texture.
Keywords: orange candy, homemade candy, citrus candy, gelatin candy, soft orange candy, classic candy recipe