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Easy Orange Candy Recipe: Make Homemade Citrus Treats With 5 Ingredients

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These homemade orange candies are soft, chewy, and bursting with real citrus flavor. With just five simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a batch of vibrant, sunshiny treats perfect for gifting or snacking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large oranges (for zest and juice, preferably navel or Valencia)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar (400g)
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch (30g)
  • 1/2 cup water (120ml)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15ml), freshly squeezed
  • Extra granulated sugar, for coating (optional)
  • Pinch of salt, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash 2 large oranges well. Zest both oranges (about 1½ tablespoons zest) using a microplane or fine grater. Juice the oranges to yield about ½ cup fresh juice. Squeeze 1 tablespoon lemon juice and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 2 cups granulated sugar and ¼ cup cornstarch until fully combined.
  3. Add the orange juice, lemon juice, ½ cup water, and orange zest to the saucepan. Stir until no dry pockets remain.
  4. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly as the mixture heats up; after about 5 minutes, it will start to look glossy and thick.
  5. Once bubbling, reduce the heat slightly and keep stirring for another 5-7 minutes until very thick and gel-like. The mixture should pull away from the pan sides.
  6. Quickly pour the hot mixture into a parchment-lined 8-inch baking dish. Spread evenly and smooth the top.
  7. Let the candy sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or refrigerate for 45-60 minutes until fully firm.
  8. Lift the candy from the dish using the parchment. Cut into 1-inch squares or desired shapes with a sharp knife.
  9. If desired, toss the squares in extra granulated sugar for coating and add a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt for flavor.
  10. Arrange the candies on a plate or tray, or package in gift bags for sharing.

Notes

Use fresh oranges for best flavor; bottled juice will taste flat. Stir constantly to prevent burning. For firmer candies, add 1 tablespoon extra cornstarch; for softer, reduce slightly. Toss candies in sugar to prevent sticking. Store in an airtight container lined with parchment for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, nut-free, and dairy-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: orange candy, homemade candy, citrus treats, gluten-free candy, easy candy recipe, orange dessert, kid-friendly snack, edible gift, party treat, vegan candy

Find it online: https://avabake.com/easy-orange-candy-recipe-make-homemade-citrus-treats-with-5-ingredients/