Desserts

Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe

Chef Olivia

December 25, 2025
4 min read

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

A small sweet orange candy you can make at home.

introduction

This classic homemade orange candy uses simple sugar syrup and thin orange slices. You get bright flavor and a chewy, translucent peel. It makes a nice snack or a small gift. If you enjoy homemade sweets with a soft glaze or a sweet finish, you might also like this Bundt cake — the best classic recipe for a different treat idea.

why make this recipe

It uses only oranges, sugar, and water.
You get a real orange taste, not artificial flavor.
It takes little active time but gives a pretty result.
You can give it as a small homemade gift.

how to make Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe

Make a simple syrup, add thin orange slices, and simmer until the peel turns clear. The key steps:

Slice oranges thin and even so they cook the same.
Make sugar water and bring it to a low boil so sugar melts.
Gently simmer the slices until the peel is translucent.
Dry the slices well on a rack until they are tacky and set.

Ingredients :

3 small oranges or tangelos (about 18–20 slices), 3 cups granulated sugar, 3 cups water

Directions :

Slice oranges into ¼-inch rounds with a sharp knife or mandoline., In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat until sugar dissolves and syrup begins to boil., Reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Add orange slices in a single layer. Simmer 45–60 minutes, turning occasionally, until peel is translucent., Remove slices with tongs and arrange on a wire rack. Dry uncovered at room temperature for 24–48 hours until tacky but set., Optional: Roll in sugar for a frosted finish, or dip in melted chocolate and sprinkle with flaky salt.

Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe

how to serve Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe

Serve plain as a chewy candy.
Roll in granulated sugar for a frosted look.
Dip half in dark chocolate and add a pinch of flaky salt.
Use a slice as a pretty garnish on cakes, cocktails, or ice cream.

how to store Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe

Lay slices in a single layer in an airtight container. Use parchment between layers.
Keep at room temperature for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, refrigerate up to 2 weeks.
Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.

tips to make Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe

Slice all oranges the same thickness for even cooking.
Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife for thin, even slices.
Keep the syrup at a gentle simmer. High heat can toughen the peel.
Turn the slices now and then so they cook evenly.
Dry them on a wire rack so air can move around each slice.
If you like pairing sweets, try a rich cake after these candies; learn how to make a smooth butter cake here: Perfect French butter cake tips.

variation (if any)

Use lemons, limes, or blood oranges the same way.
Add a cinnamon stick or a vanilla pod to the syrup for extra aroma.
For a softer candy, reduce simmer time slightly.
For a firmer, chewier candy, simmer a little longer.

FAQs

Q: Can I use navel oranges or do I need tangelos?
A: You can use any sweet orange. Tangelos work well, but navel or blood oranges are fine.

Q: Do I need to peel the oranges first?
A: No. Slice the whole orange into rounds and candy them with the peel on.

Q: How do I know when the slices are done in the syrup?
A: The peel becomes translucent and the flesh looks clear. That usually takes 45–60 minutes.

Q: Can I speed up the drying time?
A: You can dry them in a very low oven (about 150°F / 65°C) for a few hours, but watch them so they do not brown.

Q: Are these safe to give as gifts?
A: Yes. Make sure they are fully dry and pack them in a clean airtight container with parchment between layers.