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There’s nothing quite like the bright, sun-kissed flavor of candied oranges to lift your spirits on a gloomy day. When I first tried making Classic Homemade Orange Candy, I was amazed at how two simple ingredients transformed into something so delightful and sophisticated. The sweet aroma of simmering oranges wafting through the kitchen instantly filled me with joy, reminding me of warm summer days spent wandering through farmers’ markets.

This recipe is a delightful escape from the repetitive fast-food routine, offering not only a chewy texture that lingers on the palate but also a burst of citrus delight that’s hard to resist. Perfect for snacking or as an elegant touch to desserts or cocktails, these vibrant gems are remarkably easy to prepare ahead of time. Plus, they’re vegan and gluten-free, making them a versatile treat for everyone to enjoy.

So, if you’ve been searching for a fun and engaging way to spice up your homemade treats, grab some fresh oranges and join me in crafting these quick, delicious candies that are sure to impress!

Why make Classic Homemade Orange Candy?

Simplicity and elegance: This recipe is effortlessly easy, only needing two ingredients.
Vibrant flavors: The combination of sweet oranges and sugar creates a tantalizing treat.
Versatile delight: Ideal for snacking, garnishing desserts, or enhancing cocktails, bringing flair to any occasion.
Healthy swap: Ditch the fast-food habit with this wholesome, vegan, and gluten-free treat.
Make-ahead magic: Prepare these candies in advance for stress-free entertaining—just let them dry!

Transform your homemade treats with this delightful recipe and impress friends and family with flavorful confections that look as good as they taste!

Classic Homemade Orange Candy Ingredients

For the Candy

Oranges – The star of the show; choose small varieties like tangelos for neat, uniform slices.
Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetness and preservation; don’t skimp, as less sugar leads to a less chewy texture.
Water – Provides the necessary moisture to create a smooth sugar syrup for the candied process.

Let’s gather these simple ingredients and prepare to dive into the world of sweet citrus dreams with this Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe!

How to Make Classic Homemade Orange Candy

Prepare Oranges: Begin by slicing your oranges into ¼-inch rounds. A sharp knife or mandoline will help achieve uniform slices, which not only look impressive but also ensure even cooking.
Make Syrup: In a large skillet, combine 3 cups of granulated sugar and 3 cups of water. Heat over medium-high, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture reaches a gentle boil.
Simmer Oranges: Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Carefully add the orange slices, ensuring they are in a single layer. Simmer for 45-60 minutes, turning occasionally, until the peels become translucent and slightly glossy.
Dry Slices: Remove the candied slices with tongs and lay them out in a single layer on a wire rack. Allow the slices to dry at room temperature for 24-48 hours until they are tacky but set, creating that perfect chewy texture.

Optional: Roll dried slices in sugar for an extra sweet touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Classic Homemade Orange Candy

Room Temperature: Store your candied orange slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 month. Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Fridge: If you live in a particularly humid climate, consider refrigerating them to maintain their texture. However, ensure they are well wrapped to avoid drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the candied slices. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separated with parchment paper. They should last up to 3 months.
Reheating: If desired, you can serve them straight from the container. No reheating is necessary, but if they become sticky after freezing, let them thaw at room temperature for a short while before enjoying!

What to Serve with Classic Homemade Orange Candy?

Elevate your culinary experience by pairing these chewy citrus delights with complementary flavors and textures.

Cheesecake Crust: A buttery graham cracker crust adds a rich contrast, making your dessert a stunning masterpiece. The brightness of the candied oranges creates a refreshing balance to the creamy filling.
Dark Chocolate Dip: Dipping these orange slices in melted dark chocolate creates an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist. The bittersweet notes of chocolate perfectly enhance the zesty orange flavor.
Herbal Tea: Serve with a warm cup of chamomile or mint tea for a soothing treat. The gentle herbal notes will harmonize beautifully with the vibrant flavors of the orange.
Savory Cheese Board: Pair them with creamy goat cheese or tangy blue cheese on a charcuterie platter. The sweet and savory interaction will excite your taste buds and create a beautiful presentation.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Add a handful of candied oranges to a vibrant fruit salad. Their sweetness will highlight the natural juices of fresh berries and melons, creating a colorful, refreshing dish.
Sparkling Wine: Pair with a crisp, bubbly Prosecco or Cava to enhance festive moments. The effervescence lays a delightful texture alongside the chewiness of the orange candy.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer them in a yogurt parfait with creamy Greek yogurt and granola. The candied slices add sweetness and a gourmet touch to your breakfast or snack.

With these pairing ideas, your Classic Homemade Orange Candy will shine in various delightful presentations that captivate everyone’s heart and taste buds!

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Homemade Orange Candy delights are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the orange slices and make the sugar syrup up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring you have one less step to tackle before serving. Simply slice the oranges and store them in the refrigerator, and prepare the syrup to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to make the candy, simmer the prepped oranges in the syrup as usual and dry them on a wire rack as directed. This will keep them just as delicious and bursting with flavor, making your candy-making experience a breeze!

Expert Tips for Classic Homemade Orange Candy

Slice Thickness: Ensure each orange slice is ¼-inch thick for even cooking; thinner slices might burn, while thicker ones won’t candy properly.
Monitor Simmering: Maintain a low simmer; too high of a heat can cause the syrup to caramelize too quickly, leading to burnt flavor or ruined texture.
Proper Drying: Allow for ample drying time; if slices remain too moist, they’ll stick together and won’t achieve that ideal chewy texture of classic homemade orange candy.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different citrus fruits like lemons or limes to create a unique twist on the classic homemade orange candy recipe; each brings its own delightful tang!
Storing Tips: Keep your candied creations in an airtight container at room temperature, separated by parchment paper to avoid unwanted sticking for up to a month.

Classic Homemade Orange Candy Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own—delight in the creativity of candied flavors!

Citrus Swap: Replace oranges with lemons, limes, or blood oranges to explore unique taste combinations.
Bite-Sized Bliss: Use small clementines or mandarins to create adorable, candy-sized rounds that are perfect for snacking.
Vibrant Garnish: Try adding a splash of food-safe essential oil, like orange or lemon, for an extra burst of aromatic flavor.
Chocolate-Dipped: After drying, dip the slices in melted dark chocolate for an indulgent twist that adds a rich layer of taste.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the syrup while simmering for a zesty kick that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or mint into the syrup for a refreshing herbal note that complements the citrus.
Sugar Alternatives: Experiment with coconut sugar or honey for a different sweetness profile; just note that texture may vary slightly.
Alcohol-Infused: Soak the orange slices in your favorite liqueur before candying to infuse a subtly boozy flavor—perfect for adult gatherings!

Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe FAQs

What type of oranges should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For making Classic Homemade Orange Candy, I recommend using small varieties like tangelos or clementines. They provide a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Look for oranges that are firm and heavy for their size, which typically indicates juiciness and freshness.

How long can I store candied orange slices?
You can store your candied orange slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 month. Make sure to separate each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you live in a humid area, you might want to refrigerate them instead, ensuring they’re well wrapped to avoid drying out.

Can I freeze candied orange slices?
Yes! Freezing is a great way to preserve your Classic Homemade Orange Candy. To do this, place the slices in a freezer-safe bag or container, making sure to separate layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature without needing any reheating.

What if my orange slices didn’t turn out chewy?
No worries! If your orange slices didn’t achieve that perfect chewy texture, they may not have simmered long enough. To remedy this, return the slices to the syrup and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes on low heat, ensuring the syrup remains at a gentle simmer. Always aim for that translucent appearance in the peel, which indicates they are ready.

Are candied oranges safe for pets?
Very! While candied oranges are generally safe for pets in small amounts, it’s always best to double-check with your veterinarian, particularly if your pet has dietary restrictions. Remember that the sugar used in the recipe may not be ideal for them in large quantities.

Can I make variations with other citrus fruits?
Definitely! While this Classic Homemade Orange Candy recipe is delightful on its own, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like lemons, limes, or blood oranges. Each fruit gives a unique flavor profile, and cutting larger slices in half can help them maintain their structure during simmering. Enjoy the adventure of crafting your perfect candy!