If you love bright citrus flavors and nostalgic sweets, this old-fashioned homemade orange candy is about to become your new favorite treat. Soft, chewy, and coated in sparkling sugar, these little orange candies taste just like something you’d find in a classic candy shop — but they’re surprisingly easy to make at home.

This recipe is perfect for the holidays, homemade gifts, party platters, or anytime you’re craving a sweet treat with bold orange flavor. Pinterest users love this kind of candy because it’s colorful, nostalgic, and incredibly giftable.

Why Homemade Orange Candy

• Bright orange color that instantly grabs attention while scrolling
• Old-fashioned candy nostalgia (huge Pinterest trend)
• Perfect for Christmas candy boxes and edible gifts
• Simple ingredients with no complicated equipment
• Soft, chewy texture people crave

Unlike candied orange peel, this homemade orange candy is tender, sweet, and easy for beginners — which makes it highly saveable on Pinterest.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 3 large oranges)
• 1 tbsp finely grated orange zest
• 3 cups granulated sugar, divided
• 1 envelope unflavored gelatin (about 2 1/4 tsp)
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides. Lightly grease the parchment.
2. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water. Let it bloom for 5 minutes.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, orange zest, 2 cups of sugar, lemon juice, and salt.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture just begins to simmer.
5. Remove from heat and whisk in the bloomed gelatin until completely smooth.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
8. Lift the candy slab out using the parchment. Cut into small squares with a lightly oiled knife.
9. Toss each piece in the remaining 1 cup of sugar to coat.

Tips & Variations

• For a firmer bite, reduce the orange juice by 2 tablespoons.
• Add a drop of orange food coloring for a brighter look if desired.
• Roll the candies in sanding sugar for extra sparkle.
• For a chocolate twist, dip the finished candies in melted chocolate, similar to chocolate covered potato chips.

Substitutions

• Use blood orange juice for a deeper color and richer citrus flavor.
• Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a sharper finish.
• Swap orange zest with mandarin zest for a sweeter aroma.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Homemade Orange Candy on a dessert platter with cookies, fudge, or other small treats. They pair especially well with holiday sweets like Christmas Oreo balls or alongside citrus desserts such as dark chocolate pumpkin tart.

Storage & Reheating

Store orange candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Refrigeration is not recommended, as moisture can dissolve the sugar coating.

FAQs

More to Try

• Chocolate Covered Almonds
• Hot Chocolate Bombs
• Vanilla Brownies
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls

Why This Is the Perfect Candy for Gifting

Homemade orange candy looks beautiful packaged in small boxes, jars, or cellophane bags. Its bright color, nostalgic feel, and chewy texture make it ideal for Christmas gifts, dessert trays, and party favors.

Conclusion

This homemade orange candy proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you’re making it for the holidays, a party, or just because, it’s a recipe that feels cozy, nostalgic, and irresistibly sweet — exactly what Pinterest users love to save.

Old-Fashioned Homemade Orange Candy

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• Author: Sarah
• Total Time: 20 minutes + chilling time
• Yield: 30 gummies 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Sweet, citrusy, homemade gummies that are perfect for gifting or snacking!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup orange juice
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 packet gelatin
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Heat orange juice and sugar together in a saucepan.
2. Whisk in the gelatin until fully dissolved.
3. Simmer the mixture for 5–7 minutes.
4. Pour into a mold or pan and chill until set.
5. Cut into pieces and coat with sugar.

Notes

Store in an airtight container. Great for gifting!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Candy
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 gummies
• Calories: 60
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: gummies, orange juice, homemade candy, gelatin treats