Description
A nostalgic citrus treat, this homemade orange candy brings back old-fashioned charm with a soft, chewy texture and bright orange flavor. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it’s perfect for gifting, holiday trays, or whenever you crave a sweet, fruity bite. Coated in sugar for sparkle and just the right touch of crunch, these candies are easy to make and a joy to eat.
Ingredients
Candy Base
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1 cup sugar
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1 cup light corn syrup
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¾ cup water, divided
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2 envelopes unflavored gelatin
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1 package (3 oz) orange gelatin
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½ teaspoon orange extract
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Orange food coloring (optional)
Finishing
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Additional granulated sugar for coating
Instructions
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Prepare the Dish
Grease an 8-inch square dish and set it aside. This will hold and shape your candy as it sets. -
Cook the Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and ½ cup of water. Stir constantly and bring to a boil over medium heat. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches 252°F (hard-ball stage) on a candy thermometer. -
Bloom the Gelatin
While the syrup cooks, mix unflavored gelatin and orange gelatin in a large heatproof bowl. Add the remaining ¼ cup cold water and let sit to soften (bloom) for several minutes. -
Combine Syrup and Gelatin
Carefully pour the hot syrup into the bloomed gelatin mixture, stirring continuously. Mix until the gelatin is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. -
Add Flavor and Color
Stir in the orange extract and a few drops of orange food coloring if you prefer a brighter hue. -
Pour and Set
Pour the mixture into the prepared dish. Let it stand uncovered at room temperature for at least 8 hours or overnight until firm. -
Cut the Candy
Once fully set, use a sharp knife or mini cookie cutters to cut the candy into squares or fun shapes. -
Sugar Coating
Roll each piece in granulated sugar to coat and give it a classic sparkle. -
Store Properly
Store in an airtight container with wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keeps well for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
For a more intense orange flavor, you can increase the orange extract to ¾ teaspoon.If using cookie cutters, dip them in sugar or oil lightly to prevent sticking.
These candies make excellent gifts when wrapped in wax paper or cellophane.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 70 kcal
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg