Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Old Fashioned Orange Candy

Old Fashioned Orange Candy

Old Fashioned Orange Candy is a nostalgic, chewy citrus confection crafted with fresh orange juice and zest, delivering a bright, tangy flavor balanced by sweetness and a soft, chewy texture. This vintage treat brings together simple pantry ingredients for a timeless candy experience that evokes warm memories and delights candy lovers across generations.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: About 40 pieces 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest (finely grated)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Orange food coloring (optional, a few drops)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather and measure all ingredients precisely. Zest and juice fresh oranges to ensure maximum flavor, as fresh ingredients significantly enhance the candy’s taste.
  2. Cook the Sugar Mixture: In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, fresh orange juice, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar completely dissolves.
  3. Boil to the Hard Ball Stage: Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan and let the mixture boil without stirring until it reaches 250°F (121°C), the hard ball stage crucial for the candy’s chewy texture.
  4. Add Flavor and Color: Remove the pan from heat and promptly stir in the orange zest, vanilla extract, and optional food coloring thoroughly before the mixture begins to set.
  5. Pour and Cool: Pour the hot candy mixture onto a greased or parchment-lined tray. Let it cool at room temperature; once partially set, score it into pieces or pull it into traditional candy shapes.
  6. Cut and Store: After the candy is fully cooled and hardened, cut it into bite-sized pieces or desired shapes. Store in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh.

Notes

  • Use a candy thermometer to ensure accurate temperature for perfect texture every time.
  • Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best natural citrus flavor.
  • Avoid stirring the candy mixture during boiling to prevent crystallization and preserve smooth texture.
  • Work quickly after cooking to incorporate flavors and pour before the candy sets.
  • Lightly grease trays and knives to prevent the candy from sticking during cooling and cutting.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Confections
  • Method: Candy Making
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 10g)
  • Calories: 60
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 5mg
  • Fat: 1.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 0.1g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 3mg

Keywords: orange candy, old fashioned candy, citrus confection, homemade candy, chewy candy, vintage candy recipe