Classic Homemade Orange Candy Canes Recipe
Classic Homemade Orange Candy Canes are a delightful holiday treat combining the bright, citrusy flavor of orange with the traditional peppermint cane shape. Made from simple ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and fresh orange zest, these candy canes are hand-pulled and shaped for a nostalgic, festive touch. Perfect for gifting or decorating during the holiday season.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 6-8 candy canes 1x
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp orange extract or 1 tbsp fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- Food coloring (optional, orange or red for stripes)
- Powdered sugar or cornstarch (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the syrup: Combine sugar, light corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely, then stop stirring and allow the mixture to come to a boil.
- Cook to soft crack stage: Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan and let the syrup boil without stirring until it reaches 275°F (135°C), the soft crack stage. This ensures the candy will harden with a nice snap.
- Add flavor and zest: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the orange extract or fresh orange juice along with the zest of one orange. Mix thoroughly to distribute the citrus flavor evenly.
- Cool and thicken: Allow the candy mixture to cool slightly until it becomes thick but still pliable, making it easier to work with during shaping.
- Prepare the surface: Dust a clean, heat-safe surface generously with powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent sticking when handling the candy.
- Knead and incorporate color: Pour the candy onto the prepared surface and begin to knead it carefully. Stretch and fold the candy until smooth. If desired, divide a small portion and knead in food coloring for striped accents.
- Shape candy canes: Pull and stretch the candy into ropes, twisting colored portions along the plain ones to create traditional stripes. Curve one end to form the signature cane shape.
- Cool to set: Place the shaped candy canes on a non-stick surface and allow them to cool completely until firm before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for accuracy; boiling times vary with stove and altitude.
- Be cautious as the syrup is extremely hot during cooking and handling.
- Orange zest adds fresh citrus flavor, but finely grated peel of other citrus fruits can be substituted.
- Food coloring is optional but adds a festive look consistent with traditional candy canes.
- Store candy canes in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent stickiness.
- Ensure the work surface is well-dusted to prevent the sticky candy from adhering.
Keywords: orange candy canes, homemade candy canes, citrus candy, holiday candy, candy cane recipe, orange candy
