Go Back

Classic Homemade Orange Candy

Translucent, chewy, and vibrant orange jelly candies made from fresh juice and gelatin, coated in sparkling sugar.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 5 hours
Servings: 24 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 95

Ingredients
  

Candy Base
  • 1.5 cups fresh orange juice strained if desired
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 tbsp unflavored gelatin powder approx. 4 packets
  • 0.5 cup cold water for blooming
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp orange zest finely grated
  • 2 tbsp corn syrup optional, for texture
Coating
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar for rolling

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Square Baking Dish or Silicone Molds
  • Whisk
  • Citrus Juicer
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Prepare an 8x8 inch pan by lining with parchment paper and lightly greasing, or grease silicone molds.
  2. Pour cold water into a small bowl and sprinkle gelatin powder over it. Let stand for 5-10 minutes to bloom.
  3. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, lemon juice, 2 cups sugar, and zest. Heat over medium, stirring until sugar dissolves.
  4. Add the bloomed gelatin mass and corn syrup to the hot liquid. Whisk until fully dissolved. Do not boil vigorously.
  5. Simmer on low for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Pour mixture into prepared molds/pan.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours until firm and set.
  7. Remove from mold. If using a pan, cut into squares or shapes with a wet knife.
  8. Toss sticky candies in the remaining 1/2 cup sugar to coat. Let dry on a wire rack for 1 hour before storing.

Notes

Letting the candies air dry for 24 hours before sugaring helps prevent the sugar from melting.