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Classic Homemade Orange Candy Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 0h 20m
  • Cook Time: 1h 0m
  • Total Time: 1h 20m plus 4-6 hours drying time
  • Yield: Approximately 2 cups of candied orange peel
  • Category: Candy
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Classic Homemade Orange Candy recipe transforms fresh orange peels into a delightful sweet treat. The process involves simmering the peels to remove bitterness, cooking them in a sugar syrup until tender and translucent, then drying and coating them in sugar for a perfectly candied finish. A touch of vanilla adds a subtle depth of flavor, making these candies a wonderful snack or gift.

Ingredients

Scale

Orange Peels

  • 2 large oranges

Syrup

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/4 cup corn syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Coating

  • Granulated sugar for coating

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oranges: Thoroughly wash the oranges under running water to remove any dirt or pesticides, then pat them dry with a clean towel.
  2. Remove Flesh from Peels: Cut the tops and bottoms off the oranges, slice them into quarters, and carefully remove the flesh from the peels. Discard or save the flesh for another use.
  3. Slice the Peels: Cut the orange peels into thin strips about 1/4 inch wide to resemble candied peel.
  4. Boil the Peels: Place the peel strips in a saucepan, cover with cold water, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes to remove bitterness.
  5. Drain and Rinse: Drain the peels and rinse them under cold water. Set aside.
  6. Make the Sugar Syrup: In the same saucepan, combine granulated sugar, water, and corn syrup. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
  7. Simmer the Peels in Syrup: Once the syrup is boiling, add the orange peels and reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peels become translucent and tender.
  8. Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Allow to cool slightly.
  9. Remove and Drain: Use a fork or slotted spoon to remove the peels from the syrup, letting excess syrup drip off.
  10. Dry the Candied Peels: Lay the strips on a wire rack or parchment paper and let them dry for 4 to 6 hours until no longer sticky.
  11. Coat with Sugar: Once dry, roll the candied peels in granulated sugar until evenly coated.
  12. Store the Candy: Place the finished orange candy in an airtight container at room temperature.

Notes

  • Ensure to dry the candied peels thoroughly to prevent stickiness and prolong shelf life.
  • You can save the orange flesh for making juice or marmalade.
  • Use fresh, unwaxed oranges if possible for the best flavor and safety.
  • If preferred, substitute corn syrup with honey or omit for a different texture, but corn syrup helps prevent crystallization.
  • Store candies in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture and flavor.

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Find it online: https://homecookinggenius.com/classic-homemade-orange-candy-recipe/