Classic Homemade Orange Candy – The Ultimate Guide to a Tangy-Sweet Treat
This classic homemade orange candy is a delightful citrus treat made with fresh orange peels or slices, gently simmered in sugar syrup until translucent and chewy. Perfect for gifting, garnishing desserts, or snacking, these candies burst with natural orange flavor and old-fashioned charm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45–60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 7 hours (depending on drying method)
- Yield: 8-10 1x
- Category: Candy
- Method: Candying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
-
3 large organic oranges
-
2 cups granulated sugar, divided
-
1 cup water
-
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
-
Extra sugar for coating (optional)
Instructions
-
Wash and Peel: Wash oranges thoroughly. Peel them into wide strips. Remove excess pith with a knife.
-
Blanch: Bring water to a boil. Blanch orange peels for 2–3 minutes. Drain and repeat two more times to reduce bitterness.
-
Make Syrup: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water. Heat until dissolved.
-
Simmer Peels: Add the blanched peels to the syrup. Simmer for 45–60 minutes until translucent.
-
Dry: Remove peels and lay on a parchment-lined tray. Let them air-dry for 6 hours or bake at 200°F for 1 hour.
-
Optional Coating: Roll dried peels in remaining sugar for extra sweetness.
-
Store: Keep in airtight jars for up to 3 weeks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8-10
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Sugar: 28g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g