Old Fashioned Orange Candy

Old Fashioned Orange Candy is a delightful treat that brings back the nostalgic flavors of childhood. This classic candy, featuring fresh orange zest and extract, offers a bright, citrusy flavor that will brighten any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a special event, or simply to enjoy at home, this homemade candy is sure to impress family and friends with its vibrant taste and beautiful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this hard candy in no time.
• Bright Flavor: The combination of fresh orange zest and extract provides an authentic citrus taste that stands out.
• Perfect for Gifting: Package the shards in a decorative box for a lovely homemade gift during the holidays.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it as a sweet treat, use it as a cake decoration, or add it to your candy buffet.
• Nostalgic Appeal: This recipe captures the essence of old-fashioned sweets that many people adore.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Old Fashioned Orange Candy, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy saucepan
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Heat-resistant spatula
• Candy thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy saucepan: Provides even heat distribution for boiling the sugar mixture without burning it.
• Candy thermometer: Ensures accurate temperature readings for achieving the perfect hard candy consistency.
• Heat-resistant spatula: Helps in spreading the mixture evenly on the baking sheet while handling hot candy safely.

Ingredients

Create this classic Old Fashioned Orange Candy featuring fresh orange zest and extract for a bright, citrusy hard candy that breaks into perfect shards.

For the Candy Base

• 2 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

For Flavoring

• 1/4 cup orange zest (finely grated)
• 2 teaspoons orange extract
• A few drops of orange food coloring (optional)

How to Make Old Fashioned Orange Candy

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Saucepan

In a heavy saucepan, mix the sugar, corn syrup, water, and cream of tartar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 3: Boil the Mixture

Increase the heat to medium-high. Let the mixture boil without stirring until it reaches 300°F to 310°F, about 7-10 minutes.

Step 4: Add Flavorings

Remove from heat. Carefully stir in the orange zest, orange extract, and food coloring if using.

Step 5: Spread the Candy Mixture

Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread into a thin layer using a heat-resistant spatula.

Step 6: Cool and Break Into Pieces

Allow the candy to cool completely. Once cooled, break into pieces by tapping with a chicken hammer or gently using the back of a spoon.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Orange Candy

Old Fashioned Orange Candy is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re sharing with friends or using them as a festive gift, these citrusy candies are sure to please.

As a Dessert Treat

• On its own – Enjoy the candy as a standalone dessert for a sweet and zesty finish to your meal.
• With coffee or tea – Pair the candy with your favorite hot beverage for a perfect afternoon snack.

As Party Favors

• In decorative bags – Fill small bags with pieces of candy and tie with ribbon for an attractive party favor.
• On dessert tables – Use them as colorful accents on dessert tables at celebrations or gatherings.

In Gift Baskets

• Homemade gift baskets – Include Old Fashioned Orange Candy in homemade gift baskets along with other treats like cookies or chocolates.
• Holiday gifts – Pack the candy in jars for unique holiday gifts that family and friends will love.

How to Perfect Old Fashioned Orange Candy

Creating perfect Old Fashioned Orange Candy requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your candy turns out just right.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh orange zest and extract enhance the flavor significantly, giving your candy a vibrant citrus taste.
• Monitor the temperature carefully – Use a candy thermometer to ensure you reach the correct temperature range of 300°F to 310°F for that perfect hard candy texture.
• Avoid stirring during boiling – Stirring can cause sugar crystals to form, affecting the smoothness of your candy.
• Work quickly when pouring – Once you remove the mixture from heat, pour it onto the baking sheet immediately before it cools and hardens.
• Cool completely before breaking – Allow the candy to cool thoroughly before breaking it into pieces; this ensures clean edges and easy handling.

Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Orange Candy

Old Fashioned Orange Candy pairs well with various side dishes that complement its bright flavors. Here are some excellent choices to consider.

1. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries – Juicy strawberries covered in rich chocolate make a sweet accompaniment.
2. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses offers savory contrast, enhancing the sweetness of the orange candy.
3. Fruit Salad – Fresh fruit salad provides a light, refreshing balance alongside the rich flavors of the candy.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream – Serve with vanilla ice cream for a creamy counterpoint that complements the citrus notes.
5. Nut Mixes – A mix of roasted nuts adds crunch and saltiness, pairing well with the sweetness of orange candy.
6. Pistachio Cookies – These cookies bring in nutty flavors that harmonize beautifully with citrus sweets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Old Fashioned Orange Candy can be a delightful experience, but there can be pitfalls. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure perfect results.

• Incorrect Temperature: Not using a candy thermometer can lead to incorrect sugar boiling. Always monitor the temperature closely to achieve the desired hard candy consistency.

• Skipping Zest Preparation: Using whole oranges instead of finely grated zest will result in an uneven flavor. Make sure to finely grate the orange zest for a consistent citrus taste.

• Neglecting Greasing: Failing to grease the baking sheet properly may cause the candy to stick. Lightly oil your parchment paper before pouring the mixture to ensure easy removal.

• Not Allowing Enough Cooling Time: Trying to break the candy before it’s fully cooled can lead to uneven pieces. Be patient and let it cool completely for best results.

• Overmixing After Boiling: Stirring too much after reaching the desired temperature can introduce air bubbles. Once you remove it from heat, stir gently just enough to incorporate flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption and maintain texture.

Freezing Old Fashioned Orange Candy

• Duration: You can freeze it for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Wrap pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Old Fashioned Orange Candy

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Place pieces on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-10 minutes until soft.

• Microwave: Heat on low power in short bursts of 10 seconds, checking frequently until softened.

• Stovetop: Use a double boiler on low heat, stirring gently until the candy becomes pliable again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Old Fashioned Orange Candy?

Old Fashioned Orange Candy is a classic hard candy made with fresh orange zest and extract, offering a bright and citrusy flavor that is perfect for any occasion.

How do I make my Old Fashioned Orange Candy more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by increasing the amount of orange extract or adding complementary flavors like lemon or lime zest for added depth.

Can I customize my Old Fashioned Orange Candy?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different food coloring or even add spices like cinnamon for a unique twist on this classic candy.

Why did my Old Fashioned Orange Candy turn out sticky?

Sticky candy usually indicates that it hasn’t reached the correct temperature during cooking. Ensure you’re using a reliable candy thermometer and following the boiling instructions closely.

Final Thoughts

This Old Fashioned Orange Candy is not only a delightful treat but also versatile for various occasions, from holiday gatherings to personal snacks. The bright citrus flavor paired with its satisfying crunch makes it hard to resist. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite flavors or colors for a personal touch!