Embark on a nostalgic journey with this Old Fashioned Orange Candy recipe, where the vibrant zest of oranges meets the classic charm of hard candy. Perfect for a delightful treat or a thoughtful homemade gift, this recipe brings a burst of sunshine to your candy jar.
Ready to create a batch of these zesty sweets that sparkle with the essence of oranges? Here’s a simple guide to crafting a candy that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Bright and Zesty: Your Homemade Candy Delight
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a spectacularly sweet and tangy treat. Embrace the joy of candy making with these easy-to-follow steps and helpful tips.
Pro Tips for Perfect Orange Candy:
- Monitor the Heat: Keep a candy thermometer handy to ensure the sugar reaches the hard-crack stage without burning.
- Stir Sparingly: Once the sugar dissolves, avoid stirring to prevent crystals from forming.
- Add Flavor at the Right Time: Incorporate the orange zest and extract off the heat to maximize flavor without losing potency.
- Work Quickly: Once the candy reaches the correct temperature, work swiftly to add flavors and pour it before it starts setting.
- Safety First: Be cautious when handling the hot sugar mixture, as it can cause severe burns if spilled.

Old Fashioned Orange Candy Recipe:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Servings: Makes about 2 cups of candy
- Equipment: Candy thermometer, heavy saucepan, baking sheet
This delightful candy is a testament to the timeless appeal of homemade sweets.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/4 cup orange zest (finely grated)
- 2 teaspoons orange extract
- A few drops of orange food coloring (optional)
Directions:
- Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with oil.
- Combine Ingredients: In a heavy saucepan, mix the sugar, corn syrup, water, and cream of tartar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Heat to Hard-Crack Stage: Increase the heat to medium-high. Let the mixture boil without stirring until it reaches 300°F to 310°F, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add Flavorings: Remove from heat. Carefully stir in the orange zest, orange extract, and food coloring.
- Spread the Candy: Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread into a thin layer with a heat-resistant spatula.
- Cool and Break: Allow the candy to cool completely. Break into pieces by tapping with a hammer or the back of a spoon.
Ready to Enjoy!
Your Old Fashioned Orange Candy is ready to dazzle. Enjoy these brilliant, tangy treats on their own, or use them to decorate cakes and cupcakes. Store in an airtight container, separating layers with waxed paper to keep the candy fresh and delicious. Indulge in the simple pleasures of a candy that’s bursting with the essence of fresh oranges.
Print
OLD FASHIONED ORANGE CANDY
This delightful candy is a testament to the timeless appeal of homemade sweets.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 2 cups of candy 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/4 cup orange zest (finely grated)
- 2 teaspoons orange extract
- A few drops of orange food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with oil.
- Combine Ingredients: In a heavy saucepan, mix the sugar, corn syrup, water, and cream of tartar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Heat to Hard-Crack Stage: Increase the heat to medium-high. Let the mixture boil without stirring until it reaches 300°F to 310°F, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add Flavorings: Remove from heat. Carefully stir in the orange zest, orange extract, and food coloring.
- Spread the Candy: Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread into a thin layer with a heat-resistant spatula.
- Cool and Break: Allow the candy to cool completely. Break into pieces by tapping with a hammer or the back of a spoon.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
