Name: Homemade Orange Candy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 3 large fresh oranges; 2 cups granulated sugar; 2 cups water; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

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Homemade orange candy is one of my favorite sweet treats to make when I want something bright, citrusy, and nostalgic. I love how the fresh orange flavor shines through, creating a candy that’s both sweet and slightly tangy. It feels special and old-fashioned, yet surprisingly simple to prepare at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it uses just a few basic ingredients and transforms them into something truly special. I enjoy how customizable it is, whether I want softer, chewy candy or firmer pieces. Making it myself also lets me control the sweetness while keeping the orange flavor fresh and natural.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh oranges
granulated sugar
water
lemon juice (optional)

Directions

I start by washing the oranges thoroughly and slicing them thinly or peeling them, depending on the style of candy I want. I bring water and sugar to a simmer in a saucepan, stirring until the sugar dissolves. I add the orange slices or peels and let them simmer gently until they become translucent and infused with syrup. I remove them carefully and place them on parchment paper to cool and set. Once cooled, I let them dry until they reach the texture I like.

Servings and timing

I usually make this recipe to yield about 20 to 30 pieces of candy.
Preparation time: about 15 minutes
Cooking time: about 30 minutes
Drying time: 1 to 2 hours
Total time: approximately 2 hours

Variations

I sometimes roll the finished candy in extra sugar for a sparkling coating. When I want deeper flavor, I add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the syrup. I also enjoy dipping the dried orange candy halfway into melted chocolate for a richer treat.

storage/reheating

I store homemade orange candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If the pieces stick together, I separate them gently and dust lightly with sugar. I don’t usually reheat this candy, since it’s best enjoyed as-is.

FAQs

Can I use any type of orange?

I like using navel or Valencia oranges because they’re sweet and easy to work with.

Why do I simmer the oranges?

I simmer them to soften the peel and infuse the syrup, which improves both texture and flavor.

Can I reduce the sugar?

I can slightly reduce it, but sugar is essential for proper candy texture and preservation.

How do I know when the candy is ready?

I look for the oranges to become glossy and slightly translucent before removing them from the syrup.

Can I freeze homemade orange candy?

I don’t recommend freezing it, since moisture can affect the texture once thawed.

Conclusion

Homemade orange candy is a simple yet satisfying treat I love making when I want something sweet with a fresh citrus twist. It’s fun to prepare, easy to customize, and always feels special, whether I’m enjoying it myself or sharing it with others.