William Roy
Orange candy is a sweet pastry with a bright citrus taste that is typical of classic homemade. It is soft and chewy in texture and has the tastes of fresh orange which is old-fashioned yet comforting. This candy is prepared using simple ingredients and does not need any special equipment, and therefore it suits all categories of home cooks. Orange candy is suitable at holidays, special events or when you want to prepare a home-made sweet. It is also a nice gift when covered in parchment paper or put in a small box or jar. This candy is always popular with its cool taste and a jovial color.
Ingredients You Will Need
In order to prepare the traditional homemade orange candy, the following ingredients are required:
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (of about 34 oranges)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Optional: Orange food coloring to make color brighter.
Orange juice tastes the freshest, however, in case of necessity, bottled juice may be used.
The Making of Orange Candy at home
Step 1: Prepare the pan
Prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Keep some additional paper clinging to the sides to aid in the lifting of the candy out afterwards. Slip lightly greased parchment.
Step 2: Prepare the base ingredients
Combine orange juice in a heavy bottomed saucepan, orange zest, sugar, butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Combine all ingredients and then switch the heat on.
Step 3: Cook the mixture
Put the saucepan on the medium heat. Keep stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula which is heat resistant. Scrape the bottom and sides to ensure that they do not stick or burn.
Step 4: Thicken the candy
Cook for about 10–12 minutes. The solution will start to bubble and to become viscous. It is expected to appear glossy, and begin to pull off the sides of the pan, as you stir it.
Step 5: Add flavor
Turn off the power of the saucepan. Add the vanilla extract, salt, and orange food coloring in case it is used. Mix until smooth.
Step 6: Transfer to pan
Combine the hot mixture of candy in the baking dish. Use a spatula and spread evenly and flatten the top.
Step 7: Cool and set
Allow the candy to cure at a room temperature of approximately 1 hour. then put it into the refrigerator and refrigerate 23 hours till it is completely hard.
Step 8: Cut and serve
Transfer the candy with the help of the parchment paper. Put them in a cutting board and slice it into small squares using sharp knife.
Easy Variations
Orange candy that is chocolate dipped: Immerse the candy squares one half in melted dark or milk chocolate.
Orange cream candy: Add in 1/2 cup white chocolate chips once it is off of the heat.
Spiced orange candy: Warm it with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Sticky orange sponge cake: Cut almonds or pistachios and add to the dough.
Helpful Cooking Notes
Always cook on medium heat so as to avoid scalding.
Stir continuously when it starts boiling.
When the mixture darkens faster reduce the heat and continue stirring.
Do not hurry with the cooking stage, it should have the right thickness.
Serving Suggestions
Eat in small portions with coffee or tea.
Put on top of holiday candy trays or dessert boards.
Individual pieces to be gifted.
To be served chilled or in room temperature.
Tips for Best Results
Fresh orange zest is used when one wants a lot of flavor.
On chill and cut to clean slices.
Make your knife hot using hot water to incur a clean cut.
Candy store in cool kitchens.
Time & Nutrition
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Time: Some 3 hours including chilling.
Per Piece (approximate):
Calories: 130 | Protein: 1.5 g | Sodium: 35 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to use bottled orange juice?
Yes, however fresh juice is tastier.
What makes me know when the candy is ready?
It must be thick, shiny and recede off the pan.
Can I freeze orange candy?
Yes. Freeze and keep in airtight container to not more than 2 months.
How long does it last?
Refrigerate up to a period of 1 week.
Final Thoughts
Homemade orange candy is a sweet and bright texture prepared using the most simple ingredients and fresh citrus taste. Making it is simple, serving it is entertaining, and it is ideal to gift or to consume at home. Having a slender consistency and cool flavor, the candy is an everlasting homemade delight that cannot be forgotten.
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