Indulge in the sweet and tangy burst of our vibrant citrus hard candy! This delightful treat is perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. Made with fresh fruit juices and natural sweeteners, it’s a fun and colorful addition to any candy collection.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup organic cane sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon citric acid
- 1/2 teaspoon natural food coloring (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
To start your candy-making adventure, gather all your ingredients and tools. You’ll need a candy thermometer, a saucepan, a wooden spoon, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Combine the fresh orange and lemon juices in a saucepan. Add the organic cane sugar and light corn syrup to the juice mixture. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Do not stir once it is boiling. Attach the candy thermometer to the side of the pan. Continue boiling until the temperature reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).
When the mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the heat immediately. Carefully stir in the citric acid and natural food coloring, if using. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up slightly.
Quickly pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it evenly into a thin layer. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until completely hardened.
Once the candy is cooled, break it into pieces or use a sharp knife to cut it into squares. Dust the pieces with powdered sugar to prevent them from sticking together.
Store your vibrant citrus hard candy in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy the zesty flavor and share them with friends and family for a delightful treat!