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Delicious Orange Candy Recipe Easy Homemade Zesty Sweets to Try Today

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A quick and easy homemade orange candy recipe bursting with fresh citrus flavor and a chewy texture. Perfect for gifting, parties, or a bright homemade treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) water
  • Zest from 2 medium oranges
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon (14g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon orange extract
  • Optional: A pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Have your candy thermometer, zest, and juice ready.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, mix 2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup light corn syrup, and 3/4 cup water. Stir gently to combine without splashing sugar crystals on the sides.
  3. Stir in the zest from 2 oranges to infuse the syrup as it heats.
  4. Attach your candy thermometer to the side of the pan, making sure it doesn’t touch the bottom. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat without stirring. Let it reach 235°F (113°C), the soft ball stage, about 10-15 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat immediately. Stir in 1/4 cup fresh orange juice, 1 tablespoon softened unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon orange extract. Stir until smooth and glossy.
  6. Pour the candy syrup onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread evenly if needed. Let cool at room temperature until firm but pliable, about 30-40 minutes.
  7. Cut the set candy into bite-sized squares or rectangles. Dust with powdered sugar if sticky.

Notes

Use a candy thermometer to reach the soft ball stage (235°F/113°C) for perfect chewiness. Avoid stirring once boiling to prevent graininess. If candy is too sticky to cut, chill in refrigerator for 10 minutes. Dust cut pieces with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Fresh orange zest and juice provide the best flavor. For vegan version, substitute butter with solid coconut oil and corn syrup with agave syrup.

Nutrition

Keywords: orange candy, homemade candy, citrus sweets, chewy candy, easy candy recipe, orange zest candy, homemade sweets