Orange Candy Recipe

Ever found yourself craving a little burst of sunshine in the middle of a hectic day? I know I have. That’s why I’m so excited to share my recipe for this incredible homemade orange candy. It’s a sweet, chewy, and intensely citrusy treat that’s far better than anything you’ll find in a store-bought bag. It reminds me of the candies my grandmother used to have in her purse, always offered with a warm hug. This recipe is my way of bringing that same little moment of joy into your kitchen, especially on those afternoons when you need a quick pick-me-up or a fun project to do with the kids.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Orange Candy

This isn’t just another candy recipe. It’s a tiny, tasty escape.

• Simple & Satisfying: With just a few pantry staples, you can create something truly special without any fancy equipment.
• A Fun Kitchen Adventure: This is a fantastic recipe to make with family. Kids love watching the syrup transform, and the results are deliciously rewarding.
• Bright, Cheery Flavor: That punchy, natural orange flavor is an instant mood-lifter, perfect for gifting or keeping all to yourself.

Gather Your Ingredients

You only need a handful of simple ingredients to create this burst of citrus magic.

Print

• 4 large oranges
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for coating)

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Orange Candy

Don’t let candy-making intimidate you! Follow these easy steps for perfect results every time.

1. First, zest your oranges. You want about 2 tablespoons of finely grated zest. Try to get just the colorful part of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves.
3. Bring the syrup to a gentle boil and let it cook without stirring for about 8-10 minutes. You’re aiming for a thin syrup stage. If you have a candy thermometer, it should read 230°F (110°C).
4. Carefully stir in the fresh orange zest. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for another 15-20 minutes. The syrup will thicken slightly and become very fragrant.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a teaspoon, drop small rounds of the orange candy mixture onto the sheet, spacing them apart.
6. Let the candies cool and set at room temperature for at least 2 hours. They will firm up as they cool.
7. Once set and firm, pour your powdered sugar into a shallow bowl. Gently roll each piece of candy in the sugar until fully coated. This prevents them from sticking together and adds a final sweet touch.

Helpful Tips for Candy Success

A few friendly pointers from my kitchen to yours!

• Patience is Key: Resist the urge to stir the syrup while it’s boiling. This can cause sugar crystals to form and make your candy gritty.
• Zest Wisely: A microplane is your best friend for getting fine zest without the bitter pith. If you want an even more intense flavor, a drop or two of orange extract can be added with the zest.
• Storage Solution: Keep your finished candies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks—if they last that long!

I learned the importance of the “no-stir” rule the hard way after a slightly crunchy batch. We still ate them, of course, but we’ve perfected it since then!

The Perfect Way to Enjoy Your Treat

These little citrus gems are wonderfully versatile. Package them in a cute jar for a heartfelt homemade gift, set them out in a bowl at your next party, or simply stash them in your desk drawer for a secret afternoon sugar rush. They pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, cutting through the bitterness with their bright sweetness.

Nutrition Information

Let’s be real, this is a candy—a delightful, homemade one! A single piece contains approximately 25 calories, 6g of carbohydrates, and 0g of fat. It’s a small indulgence made with real fruit zest, so you can enjoy it guilt-free.

Making this orange candy is such a joyful experience. The smell that fills your kitchen is pure, sunny happiness. It’s a simple pleasure that connects us to generations of home cooks who have found ways to create sweetness from simple things. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished little ritual for you, too.

Your Orange Candy Questions, Answered

Can I use a different type of citrus?

Absolutely! This method works wonderfully with lemons, limes, or even tangerines. Just swap the orange zest for an equal amount of your chosen citrus zest for a whole new flavor adventure. You might also love our recipe for Lemon Bar Bites if you’re a citrus fan.

How do I know the syrup is at the right stage without a thermometer?

No thermometer? No problem. Test your syrup by dropping a small bit into a cup of cold water. If it forms a soft, flexible ball that you can squish between your fingers, it’s ready. This is called the soft-ball stage.

Why did my candy turn out sticky?

This usually happens if the syrup didn’t quite reach the correct temperature or if the humidity is very high on the day you’re making them. A thorough coating of powdered sugar will help manage the stickiness.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You sure can! These candies are great for making ahead. Just store them in an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper. They hold their flavor and texture beautifully for up to two weeks.