Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe
This Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe transforms fresh orange slices into delightful, translucent candied treats. Perfect as a sweet snack or an elegant garnish, these candies are easy to make with just oranges, sugar, and water. The slow simmering process infuses the orange peel with sweetness while maintaining a bright citrus flavor.
- Author: rami
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 25 to 49 hours including drying
- Yield: About 18–20 candied orange slices 1x
- Category: Candy, Snack
- Method: Simmering and drying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Oranges
- 3 small oranges or tangelos (about 18–20 slices)
Syrup
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 3 cups water
- Slice Oranges: Using a sharp knife or a mandoline, slice the oranges into ¼-inch thick rounds carefully to maintain their shape and thickness.
- Prepare Sugar Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely and the syrup begins to boil.
- Simmer Orange Slices: Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Place the orange slices in a single layer within the syrup. Simmer gently for 45 to 60 minutes, turning the slices occasionally so they cook evenly and the peel becomes translucent.
- Dry the Slices: Remove the orange slices carefully from the syrup using tongs. Arrange them on a wire rack to allow air circulation. Leave uncovered at room temperature to dry for 24 to 48 hours until the slices are tacky but firm to the touch.
- Optional Finishing Touches: For a frosted look, roll the dried candied oranges in granulated sugar. Alternatively, dip them in melted dark or milk chocolate and sprinkle with flaky sea salt for an upscale treat.
Notes
- Use tangelos or small oranges with thin skins for best results.
- Maintain a gentle simmer to avoid burning the syrup and to allow the citrus to become perfectly translucent.
- Drying times vary depending on humidity; ensure slices are tacky but not sticky before storing.
- Store candied orange slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- These candies make great garnishes for cocktails, desserts, or holiday gifts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices (approx. 30g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: candied orange, orange candy, homemade candy, citrus candy, orange slices, homemade sweets