Homemade Orange Candy is a sweet, citrusy treat made from fresh orange juice, zest, and just a handful of simple ingredients. These chewy, glossy candies are bursting with real orange flavor, making them perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding a homemade touch to dessert platters. I love making these when I want a bright, fruity candy without artificial flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a fun and easy way to make candy at home with ingredients I usually have in my kitchen. The flavor is fresh and natural, the color is beautiful, and the chewy texture is super satisfying. Plus, I get to control the sweetness and shape of the candy, which makes it feel extra special.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh orange juice
Orange zest
Granulated sugar
Cornstarch
Light corn syrup or honey
Salt
Unsalted butter (optional, for smoothness)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions

I line a small square pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
In a saucepan, I combine orange juice, orange zest, sugar, cornstarch, corn syrup, and salt.
I cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and becomes smooth and glossy (about 10–15 minutes).
If I want extra richness, I stir in a bit of butter at the end.
I pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
I let it cool at room temperature or refrigerate it until fully set (1–2 hours).
Once firm, I cut the candy into small squares or shapes and roll each piece in powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 30 small candies and takes roughly 30 minutes to prepare, plus 1–2 hours to cool and set.

Variations

Sometimes I add a tiny drop of orange extract for an even stronger citrus punch. I’ve also tried it with lemon juice for a tangier version. For a firmer texture, I cook the mixture a bit longer. If I want a pop of color, I add a drop of natural food coloring.

Storage/reheating

I store the candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them from sticking, I roll them in powdered sugar and separate the layers with parchment paper. If they get too soft, I chill them in the fridge for a bit.

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Yes, but I prefer fresh orange juice for the best flavor. I avoid using juice with added sugar or pulp.

Can I make this without corn syrup?

Yes. I often substitute with honey or golden syrup, which also gives a slightly different flavor.

Do I need a candy thermometer?

Not for this version. I cook the mixture until it thickens to a pudding-like texture, and it sets as it cools.

Can I freeze orange candy?

I don’t recommend freezing, as it can change the texture. It’s best stored at room temperature or in the fridge.

Can I make them into hard candy instead?

That’s a different process. This version is soft and chewy, but for hard candy, I’d cook the mixture to a higher temperature (around 300°F) using a thermometer.

Conclusion

Homemade Orange Candy is a simple, satisfying way to enjoy a sweet treat made with real ingredients. With its bright citrus flavor and chewy texture, it’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or keeping on hand when I need a little burst of sunshine. Making candy at home might sound tricky, but this recipe proves it can be fun and easy too.