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Classic Homemade Orange Candy

This classic homemade orange candy recipe features thinly sliced oranges cooked in a simple syrup, resulting in soft, sweet, and slightly chewy treats that are perfect for snacking or gifting.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 18 slices
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 40
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Fruit Ingredients
  • 3 small small oranges or tangelos (about 18–20 slices)
Syrup Ingredients
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 cups water

Method
 

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

Notes

Slice evenly for even cooking. A mandoline helps. Keep the simmer low so slices do not burn. Turn slices gently while cooking so both sides become translucent. Dry on a wire rack for good airflow. For a crunch, dry longer until dryer and firmer.