There’s something special about the holidays. The scents of treats in the air and the joy of making something delicious always brings back warm memories. Why not bring some of that magic into your kitchen with a fun and vibrant treat? These Classic Homemade Orange Candy Canes are playful, colorful, and will surely delight anyone who sees them. Not to mention, they are perfect for decorating your cozy home or giving away as gifts!
Why Make This Recipe
Making candy canes at home is such an enjoyable process. It’s a little crafty and a lot tasty! You get to play with colors and flavors, and the best part? You can customize them just the way you like. The fresh zest of orange combined with a hint of peppermint is a delicious twist on a classic treat. Plus, they make your home smell wonderful while they’re being made. What could be better than that?
How to Make Classic Homemade Orange Candy Canes
Gather your ingredients and let’s get started! This recipe is straightforward. You’ll feel like a candy-making pro in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- Red food coloring
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring, and cook until it reaches 300°F (the hard crack stage).
- Remove from heat and divide the mixture in half. To one half, add the peppermint extract and leave the other half plain.
- Color the plain half with red food coloring, mixing until you achieve your desired color.
- On a greased surface or parchment paper, pour the mixtures to cool slightly.
- Once cool enough to handle, knead each half until smooth and pliable.
- Combine small amounts of each color to form stripes and roll them into long ropes.
- Twist the ropes together and bend them into a candy cane shape.
- Allow to cool completely before decorating or packaging.
How to Serve Classic Homemade Orange Candy Canes
Once your candy canes are ready, it’s time for some fun! You can hang these on your tree, use them as festive place settings during dinner, or just enjoy them as a delightful treat with a cup of hot cocoa. How about pairing these candy canes with some classic hot chocolate for that perfect cozy vibe?
How to Store Classic Homemade Orange Candy Canes
Store your candy canes in an airtight container for up to two weeks—if they last that long! You might want to keep them somewhere cool and dry. Or, consider wrapping them as gifts. Everyone loves a festive homemade treat!
Tips to Make Classic Homemade Orange Candy Canes
Making candy can be a bit finicky, so here are a few helpful tips. First, ensure your candy mixture doesn’t get too hot. Use a candy thermometer for precision. If you love almond flavors, consider swapping out the peppermint for almond extract! Also, give yourself plenty of time to let the candy cool before shaping. Once shaped, dust lightly with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. If you’re an adventurous baker, you might even enjoy some of our homemade marshmallows.
Variation (if any)
If you want to switch things up, play around with different flavors! You could try lemon zest for a bright change or even dip the ends in melted chocolate. The possibilities are endless, just like when you whip up a batch of our delicious sugar cookies.
FAQs
Can I use other flavors besides peppermint and orange?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors. Vanilla or spearmint would also work beautifully.
What tools do I need to make candy canes?
You don’t need much. A medium saucepan, a spatula, a candy thermometer, and some parchment paper will do the trick!
Can I make candy canes ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, they make great make-ahead gifts. Just ensure they’re stored properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Making your own candy canes is not just about the treat. It’s about the memories you create in the kitchen. So gather your loved ones, turn up your favorite holiday tunes, and have fun!
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Classic Homemade Orange Candy Canes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 candy canes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful homemade candy canes with a refreshing orange and peppermint twist, perfect for decorating or gifting during the holidays.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- Red food coloring
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring, and cook until it reaches 300°F (the hard crack stage).
- Remove from heat and divide the mixture in half. To one half, add the peppermint extract and leave the other half plain.
- Color the plain half with red food coloring, mixing until you achieve your desired color.
- On a greased surface or parchment paper, pour the mixtures to cool slightly.
- Once cool enough to handle, knead each half until smooth and pliable.
- Combine small amounts of each color to form stripes and roll them into long ropes.
- Twist the ropes together and bend them into a candy cane shape.
- Allow to cool completely before decorating or packaging.
Notes
Store the candy canes in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Dust lightly with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Candy Making
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 candy cane
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: candy canes, homemade, holiday treats, orange candy canes, festive gifts
