Candied Oranges (orange gummy candy)
This recipe transforms fresh tangerines, mandarins, or oranges into chewy, tangy gummy candied oranges with a delightful citrus flavor. By simmering the orange segments in a sweet syrup, then air-frying or baking them to achieve the perfect gummy-like texture, these treats become both a fun snack and a creative use of fresh fruit.
Equipment
- medium pot (For boiling the orange segments with water and sugar.)
- Air Fryer (To dehydrate the orange segments and achieve the gummy-like texture.)
- Slotted spoon (To remove the boiled orange segments from the pot.)
- Parchment paper (For lining the air fryer basket.)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 5 tangerines (can also use oranges or mandarins; fist-size)
- 1½ cup water (for boiling)
- ½ cup sugar (for boiling)
- ½ cup sugar (for coating)
- ¼ tsp citric acid (for coating)
Instructions
- In a medium-sized pot, combine 1½ cups of water and ½ cup of sugar. Add the peeled tangerine/mandarins/orange segments to the pot and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat to low and let the oranges simmer in the sugar water for about 10 minutes, until they soften slightly and absorb some of the syrup.
- Remove the orange segments from the pot with a slotted spoon, setting them aside on a plate. Save the sugar water to use as an orange syrup for future recipes.
- Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. Arrange the orange segments in a single layer, making sure they are evenly spaced.
- Set the air fryer to 250°F (120°C) and cook the orange segments for 1 hour, flipping them halfway through at 30 minutes. (Alternatively, you can line a baking tray and bake the orange segments in the oven at the same temperature. The baking time may be longer than in the air fryer, so adjust based on observation. The segments should reach a chewy, gummy-like texture.)
- Mix together 1/2 cup sugar and 1/4 tsp citric acid in a small bowl.
- While still slightly sticky, toss the orange gummy segments in the sugar and citric acid mixture until they are well coated.
- Store the orange gummy candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Use the saved orange syrup for other recipes, drinks, or desserts!